Reach Out & Read is hosting our Fifth Annual Great Stories Awards Night to celebrate the expansion of our program in Illinois and raise funds to benefit the 130+ clinics that employ the program in Illinois.  
 
Reach Out & Read trains pediatricians to give out a brand-new book at every child well-visit from birth – five years old.  A children’s book in the exam room helps pediatricians build relationships with families and enables conversations about the importance of reading, singing, playing and language interactions during the critical period of brain growth. These books open doors for deeper connections within the community – and create magic inside and outside the clinic. 
 
Reach Out & Read partners with hundreds of clinics and hospital systems across the state and is championed by many prominent Chicago leaders, physicians, and healthcare providers. The event on June 8th will engage over 150 individuals, donors, supporters, friends and pediatricians at the historic Winter Garden in the Harold Washington Library in downtown Chicago.  
 
This year we are honoring Illinois State Senator Laura Murphy and Dr. Beth Volin, MD, FAAP - a longtime pediatrician and program champion. This cocktail party will celebrate the program's success, honor our state leaders, as well as engage new donors and supporters to raise over $50,000.