Celebrating Jane Addams Day

A reformer, activist and suffragist, Addams is known in Chicago through her work on Hull House, a settlement house founded in 1889. Upon opening, Hull House helped connect recently arrived immigrants to social services. It later expanded to providing support to the community through childcare, healthcare, boys and girls clubs, and adult education.  

This Jane Addams Day, let’s remember that we can help shape our communities with acts both big and small. Here are some books to inspire you to lend a helping hand, be a positive presence and build relationships with your neighbors. 

The House That Jane Built: Learn about the life of Jane Addams, from the founding of Hull House, to becoming the first woman to ever receive a Nobel Peace Prize.  

The Right to Play: Have you ever played on a playground? You can thank Jane Addams for that! Jane Addams famously championed children and their right to play. This book uncovers how Addams fought for spaces for children across the country. 

Something, Someday: A young child notices something they want to change in their community. While others ignore the problem, the child takes small steps to better the community and inspires people to come together for a common good.

Saturday at the Food Pantry: Molly goes to the food pantry for the first time when her and her mom run out of food. While waiting in line, she notices a classmate looking embarrassed. Even though it's not the same as the store, Molly and her mom get the food they need and learn that everyone needs help from time to time.

The One-day House: Wilson dreams of fixing up the old house of his elderly friend, Gigi. Inspired by Wilson's kindness, the community comes together to help him see his plan through.

Faith Takes the Train: Faith and her mother are on the train home when they spot their old neighbor, Isaiah, asking passengers for spare change. When no one responds, Faith decides to share her sandwich with him.