ANIMAL-ASSISTED LITERACY PROGRAMS

SitStayRead is a non-profit organization that uses an engaging, evidence-based curriculum, skilled staff, trained volunteers, and Certified Reading Assistance Dogs to advance the literacy skills of kindergarten through third-grade students in the city of Chicago.

We serve Chicago schools and community-based organizations where 90% of students live in low-income households or are housing insecure and 60% of third graders score below the national reading average.

Through our partner schools, and with the support of generous institutional and individual funders, SitStayRead motivates young Chicago students to become enthusiastic, proficient readers at a critical period in their learning journey and inspires them to create success in their lives.

Programs

SitStayRead provides year-round programming for K-3 students in the city of Chicago. We serve schools in neighborhoods where the student population is typically 90% from low-income households and 60% of third graders score below the national reading average.

Program Overview

Certified Reading Assistance Dogs Teams

SitStayRead Certified Reading Assistance Dogs create a positive social environment where young readers are less likely to worry about making mistakes, helping them to become confident readers. All of our programs are delivered with a focus on social-emotional learning.

Dog Team Information

Volunteer Book Buddies

Don’t have a dog? Our individual Book Buddy volunteers are just as important in helping SitStayRead deliver our programs. Book Buddies work with a small group of students in the classroom during one-hour visit where you’ll help with reading and writing activities.

Book Buddy Information

Ways to Support

SitStayRead is supported entirely by the generous donations of individuals like you. Your donation can do everything from helping us to buy books for classrooms, deliver our programs, support our dog certifications, and more. All in pursuit of our vision of a 100% literate Chicago.

Support Opportunities