Updates
After a 3-month intensive search, SitStayRead is pleased to announce the selection of Amy Taylor as its new Executive Director. Amy is a proven non-profit leader with experience in leadership, development, volunteer relations, strategic analysis and planning, operations, staff development, project management, and marketing communications. She brings to this role two decades of experience in the social sector, leadership roles in education and youth services, and a commitment to the mission of SitStayRead - to advance children’s literacy skills using an engaging curriculum, certified dogs, and dedicated volunteers.
Chicago's "stay at home order" began on March 21, 2020. Shortly after that, 9 year old Hazel began to look at the Willis Tower as a constant in her life.This book contains photographs of the Willis Tower that were taken and edited by Hazel herself. Each time she took a picture, she saw the tower in a new way. Hazel sees the beauty in everything and everyone around her. Hazel has generously decided that the proceeds of her book will be donated to SitStayRead.
I am writing today to announce that I am stepping down from my role as Executive Director of SitStayRead. This decision has been incredibly difficult both professionally and personally. It has been a great honor to work alongside the SitStayRead’s board, staff, students, volunteers, and donors over the past five years
With both sadness and gratitude that we must announce that Mara O’Brien will be resigning as the Executive Director of SitStayRead effective September 18, 2020. Mara has taken SSR to a place of financial and operational stability, championing innovation and bringing SitStayRead to the forefront of literacy work in Chicago Public Schools.
"Hazel's Happy Home" is here! SitStayRead's newly published book is a lyrical story written in verse fit for children ages 5-8. Real stories and poems written by SitStayRead students inspired "Hazel's Happy Home." Help us kick off this school year by giving the gift of reading!
In July 2020, Kate McIlvain celebrated 10 years on the staff at SitStayRead! Read more and watch an interview with her! Thank you Kate for 10 years of dedication!
Here at SitStayRead, we are deeply affected by the events that have unfolded over the past weeks
While we are unable to visit with students for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year, we are excited to share our love of reading virtually!
THANK YOU!! You helped to make our Bark 'n Ball At-Home Edition a big success! We raised over $52,000 and counting through the silent auction, donations and the Golden Ticket raffle.