“You should support SitStayRead because it involves 3 of the best things ever – reading, dogs, and children!”

-SitStayRead Volunteer, Melissa Strum

Melissa is a former Chicago Public School educator who now gives back with her dog Waffles as a SitStayRead Volunteer.

Melissa initially learned about SitStayRead during her time as a 2nd-grade teacher at Fuller School of Excellence. We visited Melissa’s classroom of young readers for 2 years in a row, bringing individualized literacy support and excitement around reading. 

Reflecting back on her time with SitStayRead, she describes the experience as "exceptional."

A few years ago, Melissa left the classroom and began to pursue a career in marketing and sales in the literacy sector. Having already seen the impact of SitStayRead, firsthand in the classroom, she felt strongly that it was important to continue supporting young readers one-on-one as a volunteer. 

“Volunteering is important to me because I want to be back in the classroom, giving time to students and educators who need it. Providing that really small group instruction with kids, so they get individualized attention is so important."

In honor of National Volunteer Week, SitStayRead is asking you, the SitStayRead community, to help us raise $5,000 by Friday to bring more volunteers and individualized literacy support to classrooms throughout Chicago.

Will you join us in supporting volunteers like Melissa by making a donation of $27, $45, or $72 today?