Mission

Working in the Schools (WITS) is a literacy organization that increases the reading proficiency and learning capacity of low-income and minority students in Chicago Public Schools. WITS recruits and supports dedicated business, government, and community volunteers who deliver measurable and consistent tutoring and mentoring services.

History

Founded by Chicagoans Joanne Alter and Marion Stone, WITS began at one urban school in the Cabrini Green housing development, one of the nation's most economically disadvantaged housing projects. Recognizing the importance of one-on-one tutoring for at-risk children, Joanne and Marion saw an overwhelming need for their service. In 1991, WITS was born.

With the help of retirees, homemakers, college students and community members, WITS expanded its volunteer force into neighboring schools at the request of teachers and principals. As volunteers spent one morning a week working with elementary students, the word on WITS continued to spread and in 1993, WITS was incorporated.

Today, WITS serves more than 2,200 students in 24 elementary schools with the support of 32 partnering organizations and more than 1,200 volunteers. Our volunteer base consists of corporate and government employees, students, retirees, and community members of all ages and backgrounds.  Seventeen years after its inception, WITS remains dedicated to training, placing, and transporting volunteers into the Chicago Public Schools.