Help Kids Read!

About the role

We are SitStayRead, a non-profit organization founded in 2003 at Sulzer Library in Lincoln Square. We transitioned to the classroom model shortly after and created our own literacy curriculum emphasizing social-emotional learning and a bilingual (Spanish) program. Over the past 20 years, we've supported over 25,000 students, distributed over 60,000 books, and partnered with 27 schools and community partners.

Responsibilities

• Work with a small group of students on reading and writing activities
• No previous classroom or reading experience required
• Volunteer with Kindergarten through 2nd Grade students on the South and West sides of Chicago
• Offer in-person volunteer opportunities for at least 1.5 hours per week, over six consecutive weeks (with flexible session attendance)
• Work with students and staff between the hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday
• Participate in afterschool family events and weekend opportunities in Chicago Public Libraries

Requirements

No prior classroom or reading experience is necessary. A love for reading and a willingness to engage with children are key qualities for this role.

Qualifications

None specified, but a strong interest in literacy and working with children is essential.

Skills

Patience, empathy, and the ability to connect with children are crucial skills for this role.

Benefits

Gain valuable experience working with children and supporting their literacy development. Receive training from certified reading assistance dogs and our experienced staff.

Pay

N/A

Schedule

In-person volunteer opportunities for at least 1.5 hours per week, over six consecutive weeks (with flexible session attendance), between the hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Afterschool family events and weekend opportunities in Chicago Public Libraries are also available.