History
Founded in 1991 by Chicagoans, Joanne Alter and Marion Stone, WITS began in one elementary school in Cabrini Green, one of the nation's most impoverished housing development projects. Identifying an overwhelming need for one-on-one tutoring for under-resourced children, Joanne and Marion felt compelled to serve. With the help of students, community members, and retirees, WITS expanded its volunteer base into neighboring schools at the request of principals and teachers. The success of WITS programming was immediately apparent to all involved, and the organization continued to grow, becoming incorporated in 1993.
Specialties
Working in the Schools (WITS) promotes literacy and a love of learning in Chicago Public School elementary students through a volunteer-powered, outcomes-based portfolio of programs. WITS endeavors to bridge the achievement and opportunity gap for underserved students through building connections with positive adult role models. Alongside our teachers and school administrators, WITS works to provide the critical support that our students need to set them on a path toward academic success.