New Logo Debut!

We are so excited to announce the debut of our new logo!

After an intensive review of SitStayRead's communications this year by a team of doctoral candidates from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), it was determined that a new logo was needed to clearly illustrate our commitment to childhood literacy.

We think this simple silhouette of a child reading to a dog evokes our core mission and the clean lines give SitStayRead a refreshed look. What do you think?

Visit our online store to shop for tote bags, tees, and other fun items sporting the new logo!

"Why I Give" by Elana Mendelson

We love hearing stories from volunteers about the programs, the kids, and fun events, but Elana wanted to tell us about why she gives to SitStayRead. Elana is a friend, volunteer, and dedicated board member. You're a rock star Elana, and we're lucky to have your support!

Elana tells us, "Why I Give..."
"I was raised to believe that no matter how much or how little you have, there is always an opportunity to give back. I began giving my time as a Dog Team and fell in love with the SitStayRead program. Seeing firsthand what the children got from reading to my pug Slugger was a powerful experience.

After spending some time in the program, I realized that any financial commitment no matter how big or small could help. This past summer I made a pledge of $1,000 to be taken monthly out of my checking account. Even though I don't make a lot of money, I realized that there are children out there who need help developing the basic skills necessary for success and my support would make a difference.

SitStayRead has developed a successful program with proven results. You only need to step into a classroom once to see the powerful impact. That's why I give."

The Best P.S.

Don't you love it when one little thing turns your head around and suddenly you see everything clearly?

Arrived home from a SitStayRead board meeting at 10 tonight and, though it was a wonderfully productive, engaging meeting with people I adore, I was wiped out. As I dragged myself through the chores of getting ready for some sleep, I checked my email. What a treat awaited me.

An email from one of our teachers about the details of finalizing a school program (and there are a LOT of details in getting the programs started) included a P.S. that put everything in perspective and made my whole week. Here it is:

"P.S. My students were asking about SitStayRead on the first day of school. :-)"

Thank you, Ms. Nolin. Please tell your students we can't wait to see them again!

Bears Care Helps Kids Learn to Read!

What a great weekend! Last Saturday, winning volunteers and teachers watched the Chicago Bears play at Soldier Field. What could be even better than winning tickets to the Bears game? Being ON the field!

SitStayRead co-founders, Sarah Murphy and MaryEllen Schneider, were presented a GIANT CHECK by Caroline Schrenker (left) and Marge Hamm (right) on the field before Saturday's kickoff. Many thanks to Bears Care for awarding SitStayRead this generous grant of $25,000! Just think how many kids will learn to read with the HUGE SUPPORT from Bears Care. That's a touchdown win in our book!

Bears Winners

We're happy to report the winners of the tickets to Saturday's Chicago Bears game are:

David Groves, teacher

Carly Loosevelt, volunteer

And we're even happier to announce that our great friends at Bears Care donated additional tickets so we have additional winners--YEAH!!

Also receiving tickets are:

Betsy Lane, volunteer

Joe Pryst, volunteer

Beth Finke, volunteer Guest Reader (along with her seeing eye dog, Hanni--be sure to check-out their blog)

"Why I Give" by Mimi Manzler

We truly appreciate all our rockstar supporters, like volunteer Mimi Manzler! As an experienced book buddy, program leader, event volunteer, and donor, Mimi tells us, "Why I Give."

"When we came to Chicago, I wanted to get involved in something and literally stumbled across Sit Stay Read. Using Volunteer Match, I entered three interests: kids, literacy & animals and up popped Sit Stay Read. I could not believe it – what could be better – kids, books & dogs!?! This is MADE for me, and that is how it all began.

Even before that though, I have always been a reader, from when I first read aloud Green Eggs & Ham to being inspired as a kid by From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler & The Phantom Tollboth. And, I have always had a strong sense that reading (& writing) is power – if you can read & think critically, and you can express yourself eloquently, what more do you need? These are the keys to success in my book.

I enjoy being with the kids and dogs, but it’s truly moments like the other day when I stood with two book buddies & two dog teams outside of Marshall’s Place. Some students from Manierre School were walking by and one young boy asked, “Excuse me, are those Sit Stay Read dogs?” He then proceeded to tell us about his experience with Sit Stay Read and how much he enjoyed reading with the dogs.

Reading with the kids is just plain FUN—it’s something that anyone would love to support! "

Shandy Girl

It is with a very sad heart that I tell you our beloved Shandy girl is gone. We were so lucky to have her for almost 17 years but that didn't make it any easier to say good bye on Friday.

This photo of Shandy on her way to school for a Sit Stay Read program is how I remember her best--happy in knowing she's going to see kids.

We'll post a tribute as soon as we're able but, for now this eloquent post by Johanna Humbert comforts and inspires. Many thanks for your kind words, Johanna.

PS Here's Shandy's video tribute by Kelsey.