Background:

In 2022, Reach Out and Read Illinois (ROR-IL) embarked on a statewide project funded by Illinois Department of Public Health to deepen the impact of sites implementing ROR-IL across the state!

In early 2023, ROR-IL introduced a mini grant program aimed at assisting clinics in implementing Reach Out and Read for the first time. Since its launch, we have provided support to clinics throughout the state, facilitating the adoption of the Reach Out and Read model. Since its launch, we have heard from existing clinics about their financial needs and goals for their program. In response to these conversations, we are thrilled to announce a funding opportunity for sites that are looking to improve their Reach Out and Read program. This one-time grant will provide book funding only. Our goal is that this one-time opportunity for book funds will help your site improve the quality of your program!

Clinic Requirements:

  • Enter all providers seeing children ages birth to five entered into myROR.org
  • Achieve a training rate of 75% with a plan to further train providers 
  • Develop a strategy for long-term funding
  • Schedule a site visit with the ROR-IL team

Review Process:

The ROR IL team will review applications on a quarterly basis (every 3 months). To be considered in the second quarter, please be sure to submit your application by April 5, 2024. The ROR team will review applications every 3 months, beginning in October, using the rubric below. The Reach Out and Read Illinois team will approve up to $40,000 total to be dispersed via mini grant each quarter, with applicants notified the following month. If multiple clinics are eligible for the mini grant, we will rank based on the totals from the application rubric and disperse funds to the highest scorers. Those that do not receive a mini grant, will be provided the completed rubric, encouraged to reapply in the future, and receive $200 in your All About Books account or as a credit to 51st Ward Books as a thank you and recognition of the time and energy you poured into the application.

Funding decisions will be made with ROR board and staff members using a rubric tool. 

Please note: Clinics that already received mini grants from ROR – IL are ineligible for this opportunity. Clinics may reapply for additional funding one year after the original mini grant disbursement date. 

Next Steps:

Mini Grant Webinar Recording: You can also learn more about the mini-grant and hear some answers to FAQs in the recording of our informational webinar to the left. In this webinar, we discussed the steps to apply and what sites could expect during the process. If you have any questions that weren’t covered, feel free to reach out!