RAWK n Shop

07/03/2025

Need a simple way to chill your drinks during this summer heat? These Jazzy Jarz were thoughtfully made by Journey Murphy, a local young creator, just in time for the 4th of July.

We are open until 6:00p today!

06/20/2025

“You never completely have your rights, one person, until you have all your rights”- Marsha P. Johnson

05/29/2025

Calling out all young entrepreneurs who are interested in starting/need support in continuing their own business. We are looking for motivated youth who want to sell products and need support in resources, knowledge, mentorship, financial literacy, and investing opportunities from our organization. If you are interested please contact the number or email that is on the flyer to set up an interview.

05/28/2025

Feeling blue on this rainy day? Let our soothing shades of blue wrap you in comfort — from a soft hoodie to a snug baseball cap, and a bag perfect for your favorite rainy-day read. Curl up by the fire or settle into the couch with a good book and our cozy collection to lift your mood. 💙☔📚

We are open until 6:00p today!

05/21/2025

Heading to the library soon! This tote bag would be a great addition to your visit! Fill it with your books at checkout and you can even pair it with the matching socks and best teacher ever case!

Come and check it out today, we are open until 6:00p.

05/15/2025

05/15/2025

New Merch Drop! We’re thrilled to be partnering with to bring you an awesome collection of literacy-themed products. Stop by and explore our Literacy Wall! We have a collection of totes, youth clothing, enamel pins & more! We are open now until 6:00p!

05/02/2025

Come and check out this handmade necklace by local youth Story Darnell of Crafts & Creativity! We are open today 1:30p-6:00p today!

05/01/2025

RAWK’n Shop is a youth-led storefront powered by Read and Write Kalamazoo (RAWK), a nonprofit rooted in Kalamazoo, Michigan. You’ll find us in the heart of the Vine Neighborhood at 802 S. Westnedge Avenue.

Created by middle and high schoolers from RAWK’s Youth Advisory Council, RAWK’n Shop is more than a store—it’s a launchpad for young entrepreneurs to build financial independence by designing and selling their own products.

The space also hosts youth-focused events, creative workshops, and gatherings that nurture community, inspiration, and a strong sense of belonging for young creators.

Every purchase helps support skill-building, personal growth, and resilience in the youth we serve.

We're open Wednesday through Friday from 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

Want to learn more or get involved? Visit rawknshop.org, readandwritekzoo.org or email us at [email protected]!

05/01/2025

Layer by Layer Creations
Allison Boucher
Materials: 3D printer, filament, digital design software, imagination, focus, love for mythical creatures and animals

Founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan, by a young entrepreneur, Layer by Layer Creations sprouted from a passion for creativity and a desire to harness the unique focus and talents of a young mind with ADHD. Inspired by her love for animals and mythical creatures, Ally turned her vibrant imagination into tangible joy through the art of 3D printing. What started as a hobby to create engaging fidget toys and mini animals for her and her friends quickly blossomed into a full-fledged business. Layer by Layer Creations specializes in designing and producing a delightful array of 3D printed items, from intricate dragons that spark the imagination, to soothing fidgets that enhance concentration and calm. Each piece is crafted with care and precision, designed not just to entertain, but to provide tactile feedback and focus aids for individuals with ADHD and others who benefit from sensory experiences. As advocates for neurodiversity, we are committed to promoting inclusion and understanding through our creations.

Stop by the RAWK n’ Shop at 802 S Westnedge Ave to check out Allison's amazing work!

05/01/2025

CRAFTS & Creativity

Story Darnell

Materials: beads, clay beads, crochet yarn, metal findings, elastic cord, thread, fabric

CRAFTS & Creativity is the vibrant creation of 13-year-old Story Darnell. What began as a love for hands-on making quickly became a full-blown business rooted in self-expression and empowerment. From bead jewelry to crochet tops and keychains, Story’s work is made to uplift, inspire, and spark creativity. Find her pieces online, at local markets, and right here at RAWK.

At just 13 years old, Story Darnell is the creative force behind CRAFTS & Creativity—a handmade goods business born from her passion for artistic expression and self-leadership. From an early age, Story knew she wanted to be her own boss and bring joy to others through the things she made. With each bracelet, keychain, or custom crochet pieces, Story’s mission is to spark confidence, comfort, and happiness in others while inspiring creativity in the world around her.

Her growing collection includes seed and clay bead jewelry, phone charms, crochet scrunchies, keychains, bags, and custom tops. You can explore more of Story’s work at thecraftsandcreativity.square.site, , on Instagram at , at local art fairs—and of course, right here at RAWK.

Stop by the RAWK n’ Shop at 802 S Westnedge Ave to check out Story's amazing work!

04/23/2025

Levi Upcycle Guitar  Picks

Levi Mills

Materials: Recycled gift cards, guitar pick punch, sandpaper, imagination, care.

Levi is a 6-and-a-half-year-old artist and entrepreneur with a passion for turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. He began his creative journey at just 5 years old while recovering from a tonsillectomy, using his time and imagination to start a guitar pick business.
Levi handcrafts guitar picks from used-up gift cards, transforming discarded materials into vibrant, functional art for musicians. Each pick is a small expression of creativity, resourcefulness, and care—reflecting Levi’s belief that even everyday items can have new life and purpose.
Through Levi’s Picks, he hopes to inspire others to think creatively, recycle with intention, and support young artists in their imaginative pursuits. Donations of used gift cards are always welcome to help keep his creations going.

Stop by the RAWK n’ Shop at 802 S Westnedge Ave to check out Levi’s amazing work!