Companions Journeying Together

Imagine a child hearing a story read just for them from a parent or relative they can't be with. At the DeKalb County Jail in Sycamore, Aunt Mary’s Storybook helps make that moment possible. Each month, we support incarcerated parents and family members as they record themselves reading children’s books to the kids they love. We’re looking for a volunteer to join our DeKalb County Jail team in Sycamore, IL. 🕒 When: First Friday of each month, 10 AM–1 PM 📋 What you’ll do: Support participants as they record their reading, offer encouragement, and help with simple paperwork. If you’re compassionate, reliable, and inspired by helping families stay connected through reading, we’d love to hear from you.

✨📚On International Literacy Day, we’re highlighting Aunt Mary’s Storybook Program, a way individuals in custody connect with their children through reading. Participants record themselves reading children’s books aloud, and both the recording and the book are sent home to their kids. This program not only fosters literacy, but also strengthens family bonds through moments of comfort, reminding us that even in difficult circumstances, stories have the power to bring us together. 📸Pictured: Aunt Mary’s Storybook participants from Vandalia Correctional Center #InternationalLiteracyDay #FamilyConnections #LiteracyForAll

We were honored to welcome Senator Laura Ellman and her team to the Joliet Treatment Center to see Aunt Mary’s Storybook in action! We thank Senator Ellman and her team for taking the time to witness how storytelling helps incarcerated parents and relatives stay connected with the children they love. Their support means so much to us and to the families we serve. Learn more about our work: https://bit.ly/40jHyaL #AuntMarysStorybook #CJTINC #Literacy #Storytelling #FamilyConnection

The books have been sent, and families are already receiving them! At the Cook County Jail Division 9, some of the incarcerated people took part in Aunt Mary’s Storybook, choosing and recording books for a total of 39 young people in their lives. These packages are now arriving in homes, bringing warmth, connection, and the comfort of a loved one’s voice. 📸: Some of the incredible participants who helped make this moment possible. #AuntMarysStorybook #FamilyConnection #CJTINC #Reading

We love hearing from our community members! Take a look at what Nikki has to say about how she hopes storytelling will impact her child. #AuntMarysStorybook #CJTINC #Storytelling

We love knowing the "why" behind our members book choices. Take a look at what inspired a few of our members to select the books they chose to read to their loved ones. #CJTINC #AuntMarysStorybook #Reading

Families are feeling the love! Packages from our Aunt Mary’s Storybook session earlier this month at the Decatur Correctional Center have been received by families. During this session, 15 women recorded heartfelt stories for 55 children, sending joy, encouragement, and connection straight to their loved ones.   Below: Three of our participants from this beautiful session!  #AuntMarysStorybook #CJTINC #Literacy

Happy Easter to you and your loved ones! We hope you have a restful day celebrating. #CJTINC #Easter