The ACT NOW Print Shop is a social entrepreneurship program whose goal is to provide greater access to employment for underrepresented residents in Burlington County, NJ. Social entrepreneurship is the process by which individuals, startups and entrepreneurs develop and fund solutions that directly address social issues. The purpose in developing Act Now Print Shop is to fulfill a need among aspiring artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and low income residents who are in school or out of school youth between the ages of 16-24 years old. We are seeking those who have the drive and ability, yet lack the opportunity and network of support to do so. At the ACT NOW Print Shop participants will gain valuable experience and develop skills that will help them in the future while providing custom apparel to the community. The print shop also provides career pathways and certificate programs. At the print shop participants will learn how to use photoshop, operate a press, communicate with clientele and write invoices.
A note from Marquis
“My name is Marquis and in my experience Act Now has provided me with a clear path forward that I didn’t have before. My time here has also allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and network with all types of people. It’s been great being on the ground floor of a program meant to uplift the community.
An average day for me usually begins at 10am when I walk into the office. I like to start out on the computer where I either work on designs or talk to clients. Clients provide me with their design ideas, edits, and or clothing they would like their designs pressed on. When I finalize a design I then move to the print shop where our supplies are located. I then print out these designs using either a printer or a design plotter. After I get done cutting the designs out from the plotter I press them onto various clothing. Finally, I pack up the product to be shipped to the clients.
This opportunity has given me a lot of valuable experience. Regularly talking with clients has given me a sense of how to talk in the business world which adds to my confidence. Learning photoshop has allowed me to stretch my imagination and be creative in ways I couldn’t achieve in an ordinary workplace. Act Now also gives me a purpose beyond myself and a direction towards greater things. I believe that these experiences along with others make the print shop a great place to work.”
