826CHI

826 Chicago is the Chicago chapter of the non-profit 826 National, an organization dedicated to offering free after-school tutoring and creative writing workshops for kids ages 6–18. All programs are open for Chicago Public School students. The center opened in 2005 in Chicago's Wicker Park Neighborhood.

Every 826 National chapter has an unusually themed retail space giving each center a storefront to attract the attention of potential volunteers and students, make money for the organization, and create a fun environment for the students. 826 Chicago's retail space is known as The Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Company (formerly known as The Boring Store). Fake mustaches and rearview sunglasses are among the spy-themed items on sale alongside 826 National publications and 826 Chicago gear.