826CHI is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting students ages 6 to 18 with their creative and expository writing skills, and to helping teachers inspire their students to write.

Our services are structured around the understanding that great leaps in learning can happen with one-on-one attention, and that strong writing skills are fundamental to future success.

With this in mind, we provide drop-in tutoring, after-school workshops, in-schools tutoring, help for English language learners, and assistance with student publications.

All of our programs are challenging and enjoyable, and ultimately strengthen each student’s power to express ideas effectively, creatively, confidently, and in his or her individual voice.

Our Location:
1331 North Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
ph: 773 772 8108
fax: 773 326 3513

 
     
 


blog programs calendar volunteer donate contact

THE BORING STORE

Many of our finest clients, like yourself, are often out of the country on mundane business that in no way involves international espionage and intrigue. We have received many encrypted letters demanding that our store create an outpost in Kamfmtor, Hidentka, Gwazoo, Miksha and Boise, Idaho, among others. Well Boring friends, want no more! We are now bringing the store to you at these and other discreet locations via the interweb. (Worried that the money trail will connect you to your spy supply purchases? Fear not! As always, we are filtering the money to 826CHI, the creative writing and tutoring lab in Chicago that brings our free programming to local students.)


Right In Front of Us

Ninth graders at a Chicago high school have written these powerful personal essays about their young lives. In the foreword, author Alex Kotlowitz (There are no Children Here) writes: “These tales will surprise you. They take twists and turns that are unexpected, that are jarring, that feel, well, so real. You’ll sense these kids’ defiance, their hurt, their exuberance, their yearning to be heard.”

Covert use:  When your mission requires you to take on the guise of a local teen, this book will serve as your training manual.

($12 ea.)
 
ALiBi Books

Students in 826CHI’s after-school program wrote the entertaining stories in this collection of assorted, colorful chapbooks. Possible topics covered by your bundle include candy, dreams, a light-bulb shaped object, Japan, moustaches, cows, and more.

Covert use: Read these pieces aloud to immobilize your enemy. The rogue agent will be defenseless as he/she laughs uncontrollably or is stupefied by the poignant-ness.

(4 for $10)
 

The Boring Store T-Shirt

Modeled after the store’s deceptive packaging, these shirts are perfect for anyone who wears clothing, particularly on their torso.

Covert use: The shirt’s text will convince anyone reading it that you are not a spy! Not that you’d ever need to…

($20 ea.)


    

 
The Boring Store Ornament

This splendidly crafted ornament is hang-able, nearly anywhere!

Covert use: Hang orb from branch of pine tree and watch your enemy be overcome by feelings of cheer and goodwill.

($10 ea.)
 
The Boring Store Tote Bag

An exquisitely exquisite cloth tote bag.

Covert use: Perfect place to hide plastic shopping bags.

($8 ea.)
 
A Sunday Afternoon Hotdog Meal

More than 200 second through sixth graders wrote this riveting, often hilarious, guide to Chicago that can be enjoyed by those who are second-city natives and those who’ve only dreamed of being one.

Covert use: Field guide.

($12 ea.)
 
 
 

Please visit the other 826 chapters:
826 Valencia
826NYC
826LA
826 Seattle
826 Michican
826 Boston

 
site by todd eckle & brooke ellis