Thank you for considering donating to Open Books.  I am running on behalf of literacy for kids for the third year in a row and would greatly appreciate your support.  Open Books is an incredible organization that directly impacts the lives of children from underserved communities.  As a child, I grew up incredibly lucky to be surrounded by books.  Unfortunately, the majority homes below the poverty line in Chicago do not have any books for children.  Studies show that being read to as a child and having books in the home are the two most important indicators of future academic success. A $25 donation to Open Books will provide one child with a new book every month for a year. 

If you are unable to donate monetarily, I'd appreciate if you would consider donating your gently used books, CDs (you'd be surprised how many we sell!) or DVD's to Open Books.  Open Books sells these items in their bookstore and online to pay for many of their reading and writing programs.  

About Team Bookin' It (TBI)!

Open Books' annual fundraiser Team Bookin' It, brings together runners and virtual runners in support of literacy. TBI is part of the Humana Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon, July 20-21. The race includes a 5k on Saturday, July 20 and a 10k and Half Marathon on Sunday, July 21. The race takes place at Grant Park.

If you're not into running, you can still be part of the TBI team! Sign up as a virtual runner, and let your fundraising creativity shine! Proceeds from TBI support Open Books' literacy and book granting programs.

Fundraising Minimums

Half Marathon: $700
10K: $500
5K and Virtual Runner: $300

Open Books' Mission

Open Books' mission is to transform lives through reading, writing, and the unlimited power of books.  Each year, Open Books engages more than 6,000 children and students through its literacy programs and donates over 160,000 books to children, families, and under-resourced communities throughout the Chicago area annually. To learn more, please visit www.open-books.org.