: Turning Passion into A Project That Benefits StreetWise Through the
The Beginnings
In 2015, Scott Marvel received a simple question from a reporter: “What is your company doing for the holidays?” The question sparked something bigger than a seasonal donation. As the President of Daily Planet Productions –a Chicago-based creative studio – Scott began thinking about how to merge his passion for screen-printing with his drive to make a difference.
That same year, he founded Giveashi*t – a one-of-akind fundraiser that uses artist-designed T-shirts to raise money for those experiencing homelessness. His idea was simple but powerful: make great shirts and give 100% of the profits to StreetWise, the Chicago institution dedicated to helping people facing poverty and housing insecurity.
Scott reached out to his network of local artists, asking them to contribute unique, meaningful designs. He then hand-screened the shirts himself – in his basement – and started selling them at live events and eventually online at www.giveashirt.net.
It wasn’t just a campaign. It was a commitment to giving a sh*t.
Making a Real Difference
Since its founding, Giveashi*t has raised more than $650,000 to support the work of StreetWise– funding magazine production, vendor support, and services for those experiencing homelessness and poverty.
But even more than that, it’s created a community – a movement of people who care, who create, and who act.
So the next time you put on a Giveashi*t shirt, know this: it’s more than just fabric and ink. It’s a symbol of what’s possible when people decide to use what they have to help others. It’s a reminder that when we give a sh*t, we can change lives.
Power of Art, T-Shirts,
Meet the Man Behind the Scenes – Scott Marvel
Every shirt begins with Scott. His typical day starts at 5 a.m. – downstairs in the print shop (a.k.a. his basement) – pulling ink across screens and bringing each design to life before heading to his full-time job at Daily Planet Productions. After a full workday, he’s right back in the basement, continuing the process late into the evening.
This isn’t a job for Scott. It’s a mission.
Want a peek behind the curtain? Watch the behind-the-scenes video: "How the Shirts Are Made" https://youtu.be/VKosb2OxQ0M
SCOTT MARVEL SETTING UP A PRINTING PRESS AT THE FIRST GIVEASHI*T POP-UP IN 2015
into Purpose
and Giving Back
“My philosophy is to use what you have –resources, talents, relationships – to change what’s unpleasant, correct what’s unfair, help those who are struggling around you.”
– Scott
Marvel, President of Daily Planet Productions and founder of GiveAShi*t
The Sales Guru – Jeannine Ringland-Zwirn
Jeannine is the powerhouse behind Giveashi*t’s live sales events and online operations. In 2025 alone, she coordinated 15 events across Chicago – from street fairs to holiday markets – involving hundreds of hours organizing, setting up, and selling. Each event involves selecting and displaying the right shirt combinations, managing inventory, applying for event spots, and working with volunteers to make it all run smoothly.
Before each new collection launches, Jeannine contacts artists, manages submissions, helps determine ink and shirt color combinations, and oversees the online store at www.giveashirt.net. Her creativity and hustle keep the project growing and glowing.
The Logistics Queen – Pam Hoffman
Pam is the quiet hero making sure every Giveashi*t shirt ends up in the right hands. Volunteering in Scott’s basement print shop, Pam helps with everything from ordering supplies to tagging each shirt by size using a color-coded system to make sales easier. She personally fulfills online orders, writes heartfelt thank-you notes, and ships (or even hand-delivers) each package with care.
Her attention to detail and dedication ensures that every person who supports Giveashi*t feels seen, valued, and connected to the mission.
PAM HOFFMAN WITH STREETWISE VENDOR A. ALLEN
JEANNINE RINGLAND ZWIRN SELLING WITH POPUP VOLUNTEERS JACQUELINE & JAY QUINN
Meet the Artist: Alan Spindle
For artist Alan Spindle, creativity was never part of a grand plan. He describes himself as an "accidental artist." His work is inspired by the iconic band logos of the 1960s, especially groups like The Monkees and The Doors. Alan has developed a distinctive style rooted in graphic simplicity, nostalgia, and unexpected combinations.
"I love mashing up visuals from different worlds," he says, a philosophy that shines through in his designs.
Alan's most recent contribution to Giveashi*t was inspired by his affection for Chicago, his adopted hometown. The design serves as a tribute to the city and the community that has become home to him. His decision to support Giveashi*t came naturally. "I admire the people who run it and the people it helps," Alan explains. When asked what it means to know his art contributes to that mission, Alan offers a characteristically humble response: "It's a very small spark in an often-dark world."
To see more of Alan's work, visit his website at alanspindle.com
Follow us: Facebook.com/giveashirtchicago | Instagram: @giveashirtchicago | X (formerly Twitter): @giveashirtchi
Meet the Artist: Betsy Ming-Lai Lam
Artist Betsy Ming-Lai Lam is a multi-disciplinary visual artist, writer, and technologist whose work explores identity, healing, and transformation. As a biracial, second-generation immigrant, queer single mother, and former competitive gymnast, Betsy draws upon her own lived experiences to examine how trauma and complex identities shape the human experience.
Through her intimate "Lotus Girl" drawings, Betsy celebrates the courage of self-discovery and the resilience that emerges from healing. Her work reflects a belief that even life's dark est moments can open pathways to growth, connection, and light.
Betsy was drawn to Giveashi*t and StreetWise because of the compassion at the heart of both organizations. "Giveashi*t and StreetWise are such compassionate and generous organizations—and Scott, Pam, and Jeannine are such kind humans," she says. She is honored to contribute, even in a small way, to the positive impact these organizations have within the community.
Currently, Betsy is working on a book and collection of her Lotus Girl drawings, continuing her exploration of healing, identity, and personal transformation through art.
Follow Betsy's work on Instagram: @lotusgirl.art
Meet the Artist: Goosenek
Since 2011, Goosenek has been bringing smiles to Chicago through a playful character that first appeared on rooftops along the city's Brown and Red Line train routes. Over the years, the Goosenek character has evolved in countless ways while staying true to its original spirit: a sense of innocence, joy, and connection.
Goosenek was inspired to contribute his artwork because he believes in the impact Giveashi*t and StreetWise have on the community. "I believe that if my art can do something good and add to what Giveashi*t is doing, that is a good thing," he says. "I'm so inspired by Giveashi*t and truly grateful to be a part of it."
Knowing that his artwork helps support people experiencing homelessness and poverty makes the project especially meaningful. "I am happy that my art is part of something that is helping people who are in need."
Goosenek credits artists such as Sweet Toof, Snacki, and Left Handed Wave for inspiring him to develop and refine his distinctive style. Today, his work continues to be recognized throughout Chicago and beyond.
Look for Goosenek's upcoming group exhibitions at All Star Press and Chicago Truborn, and follow his latest work on Instagram: @g00senek. Left column, from top: Ride or Die by Dave Fortney; Daytime Chicago by Daytime Chicago; DIBS by Natalie Bomke; True Unicorn by Sarah Jindra. Below: Cowboy Jeffy by Jeff Tweedy; Hard Times by Jon Langford.
Meet the Artist: Jay Ryan
For more than three decades, Jay Ryan has been creating art that is instantly recognizable for its hand-crafted style, wit, and originality. A selfdescribed "balding middle-aged suburban dad," Jay has spent much of his career drawing and screen-printing concert posters, earning a devoted following for his distinctive visual voice.
When asked what inspires his work, Jay is interested in "inventing new mistakes and doing things wrong, but better." That playful willingness to experiment has become a hallmark of his artistic approach.
His most recent Giveashi*t design, "HECK YEAH," celebrates what Jay sees as Chicago's enduring spirit. "It's an accurate depiction of Chicago's cando attitude," he explains. "Not pretty, but still doing cool stuff."
Jay credits his continued participation in Giveashi*t partly to longtime friendships—and partly to goodnatured pressure from the Giveashi*t team. He jokes that founder Scott Marvel has "gently threatened to scramble my beard," while Jeannine's friendly reminders have helped him submit designs, even if occasionally a little past deadline.
Behind the humor is a deep appreciation for the mission. Jay sees his artwork as one small piece of a larger network of support. "My contribution helps bring attention to this issue and highlights the complex web of community support that people can weave when they work together."
You can explore Jay's screen prints and artwork at thebirdmachine.com and follow him on Instagram: @thebirdmachine.
Chicagoooooo
by Katrina Zimmerman
Perpetual Growth
by Anthony Park Kascak
Meet the Artist: Jeannine Ringland
For more than 20 years, Jeannine Ringland has worked as a ceramic artist at Lill Street Studios, creating functional pottery and decorative wall tiles. In recent years, she has expanded her artistic practice into metalsmithing, embracing the challenges and occasional frustrations of working on a much smaller scale.
Jeannine draws inspiration from the rich history of pottery and the ways people have used and decorated functional objects across cultures and centuries. Her work reflects an appreciation for craftsmanship, utility, and the stories everyday objects can tell.
Her Giveashi*t designs celebrate two of her passions: Chicago and nature. "All's Fare" is a tribute to Chicago's public transportation system and the city's accessibility, inspired by memories of arriving in Chicago as a college student and exploring the city with rolls of CTA tokens. "Metamorphosis" reflects her love of gardening and her commitment to creating spaces where bees, butterflies, and birds can thrive.
When asked why she contributes to Giveashi*t, Jeannine jokes, "Scott made me." But her decade-long involvement speaks to a much deeper connection. She describes it as a privilege to work alongside Giveashi*t and StreetWise and to see firsthand how the partnership impacts vendors' lives.
Follow Jeannine's work on Instagram: @jrzclay.
Meet the Artist: Rick Conrad
For Rick Conrad, creativity has always been part of everyday life. From drawing and painting to filmmaking, design, and music, he's been making things for as long as he can remember. A lifelong Chicagoan, Rick draws inspiration from vintage pop culture, music, film, classic painters, and the simple act of observing the world around him.
His most recent Giveashi*t design reflects one of his favorite artistic themes: animals with human characteristics. "I'm a sucker for animals wearing clothes," he says, noting a longtime fascination with the idea of what the world might look like if animals were in charge—a curiosity he traces back to an early love of the Planet of the Apes films.
Rick has been part of Giveashi*t since its earliest days. An old friend of founder Scott Marvel, he was eager to support both the organization and its mission. "I'm a born-and-bred Chicagoan, and StreetWise has always been present in my life," he explains.
Knowing that his artwork helps support people experiencing homelessness and poverty makes the work even more meaningful. "I get to do something I thoroughly love doing for a great cause."
In addition to his visual art, Rick is preparing to release a new music project, The Betty Project, and is currently working on a series of bee-inspired paintings.
Explore Rick's work at conradrichardsart.com and thebettyprojectmusic.com, or follow him on Instagram: @mrconradrichards.
Meet the Artist: Scott Marvel
For Scott Marvel, creativity has always been a constant. A lifelong artist and musician, he was captivated by the intersection of music, film, and visual art during the early days of MTV. After studying film and video at Columbia College Chicago, he was introduced to screen printing by mentor Steve Walters—a fateful encounter that led to a career designing posters, T-shirts, and animations.
In 2005, Scott launched teetsy, a home for his growing collection of T-shirt designs and creative projects. His work combines simple graphic design, dark humor, and an affection for the strange and unexpected. When asked what inspires his art, Scott offers a characteristically playful answer: "Simple shapes. Alcohol. Gallows humor. Incontinence. Frogs, llamas, possums, and rats."
His most recent Giveashi*t design was inspired by an unexpected source. While Scott’s wife Nikki was hiking in Machu Picchu, she sent back a lot of pictures of alpacas during the rare times she could send a photo. For Scott, founding and sustaining Giveashi*t was an easy decision. "Why not use art for good?" he says. Knowing that his work helps support people experiencing homelessness and poverty feels meaningful, even if, as he puts it, "it's a start."
Over the past decade, Scott's creativity, humor, and generosity have helped shape Giveashi*t into the unique artistic community it is today.
Explore Scott's work at teetsy.com and dailyplanetltd.com
Top Row: Elev^te by Julio Desir; Link and Kumo by Sachi Straus; A Perfect City by Ben Chlapek; Good Friends by Miki Straus; Love Above by Betsy Grimm; Healing Happens by Samantha Conrad.
Bottom Row: Human by Bruno Pieroni; Different Stuff by Brian Stevens; Smitten Spinning by Ron Linnemann; Tamale Guy by Dave Fortney; Tony f'n Fitzpatrick by Dag Juhlin.
Meet the Artist: Scott Rasmussen
For artist Scott Rasmussen, creating art is about capturing the magic of traditional printmaking while embracing modern tools. He describes himself as an "old-school, ink-under-the-fingernails guy" who is constantly working to recreate the tactile feel and character of print in a digital world.
Scott draws inspiration from a wide range of artists, particularly muralists, illustrators, and cartoonists. He especially admires the work of Gary Larson, whose ability to distill complex ideas into simple, memorable images has influenced his own creative approach.
His most recent Giveashi*t design, "Bigfoot Bjorn," features a Bigfoot wearing a baby carrier with a hiker tucked inside. The absurd role reversal captures the whimsy and unexpected perspective that often characterize Scott's work.
When asked why he contributes to Giveashi*t, Scott points to both the mission and the people behind it. "It's a great cause," he says, jokingly adding that founder Scott Marvel is "very persuasive."
Beyond the humor, Scott appreciates knowing that his creative work can make a tangible difference. "It feels great to know that a couple hours of creative work can generate so much income for the homeless," he explains.
See more of Scott's work at scottras.com.
Meet the Artist: Shawn
Smith
For artist Shawn Smith, creativity has been a lifelong pursuit. Growing up in Joliet, he was inspired by a father and older brothers who loved to draw, setting him on a path that would eventually lead to a career blending art and design. Today, Shawn lives in Chicago with his wife, son, and dog, creating work that reflects both his imagination and the world around him.
While his earliest influences came from comics, science fiction, fantasy films, and video games, Shawn finds inspiration in the everyday, his community, the city, family, friends, strangers, nature, and whatever else he can experience and interpret.
His Giveashi*t design, "For Now," centers on a simple but meaningful phrase. "The future is unwritten," Shawn explains. Whether circumstances seem difficult or ideal, the design serves as a reminder to live in the present while recognizing that each new day brings new possibilities.
For Shawn, supporting Giveashi*t was a natural extension of his commitment to community. "It's important to give back, however you can," he says. "Being part of a larger community is not only an inspiration for the work I create, I want it to be a part of how I live my life." Knowing that his artwork helps support people experiencing homelessness and poverty feels like a gift in return.
Shawn is currently experimenting with upcycled artwork, transforming thrift-store paintings by incorporating his signature characters into the original scenes. The result is a playful blend of old and new that gives forgotten artwork a second life.
Learn more about Shawn's work at imals.com or follow him on Instagram: @shawnimals.
Opposite Page, Top Row: Equal Rider by Rick Conrad; Giardiniera by Ben Chlapek; Monkey Mayhem by Scott Rasmussen. Bottom Row: You Are Not Alone by Matthew Hoffman; We Are All Equal by Matthew Hoffman; Catronaut by Tim Souers. This Page: The Giving Tree by Jeff Tweedy; Pals by Scott Rasmussen; It Wasn't Me by Tim Souers.
Meet the Artist: Stella Marie Conrad
For artist Stella Marie Conrad, creativity is rooted in connection. Inspired by community, storytelling, mindfulness, and authentic forms of expression, her work draws from a love of film photography, documentary arts, and calligraphy. As a certified mindfulness meditation teacher, she strives to foster understanding, compassion, and presence through both art and service.
Her recent Giveashi*t design, "Protected," reflects themes of resilience, hope, and collective care. Inspired by the practice of Metta (Loving Kindness) Meditation, the piece encourages us to extend compassion to ourselves and others, while envisioning a world where all people are safe, healthy, and free from suffering.
Stella was inspired to contribute her artwork because she believes creativity has the power to create meaningful change. She sees Giveashi*t as a community built on compassion—bringing together artists and supporters who care deeply about making a difference.
"To support those facing homelessness and poverty is our community's responsibility," she says. "I feel privileged to be part of an organization that gives me the opportunity to support those who need care and loving action."
Beyond her artistic work, Stella is launching a mindfulness collective for young adults and teaches community meditation classes throughout Chicago. Through art, mindfulness, and community engagement, she continues to explore ways to bring people together through compassion and shared humanity.
Stella models her design while visiting the StreetWise offices.
Follow Stella's work and community projects on Instagram: @peacepatr0l
Meet the Artist: Tim Souers
After spending 39 years as an art director, Tim Souers has devoted more of his creative energy to painting. Decades spent thinking about pictures and words shaped his artistic perspective, but today his work is driven by curiosity, humor, and a desire to create images that make people smile.
One of his favorite Giveashi*t designs is "Catronaut," featuring his cat wearing an astronaut helmet while gazing out a window at the moon (see page 10). Tim describes it as "literal escapism that still makes you smile"—a playful reminder that sometimes we all wish we could get away for a while. His newest designs are "Bird Whiskerer" and "Dog Friendly."
For Tim, contributing to Giveashi*t was an easy decision. "I love what Giveashi*t does and represents," he says. "And the people are so cool." Knowing that his artwork helps support individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty makes the experience even more meaningful.
Tim's artistic influences are wide-ranging. Growing up with a mother who was an oil painter, he developed an appreciation for art at an early age—though he jokes that their house always smelled like turpentine, which may explain why he prefers working in watercolor today. He also draws inspiration from Chicago, the ups and downs of being a Cubs fan, and artists such as Ralph Steadman, Francis Bacon, Isabella Di Sclafani, and Fred Stonehouse.
You can see Tim's work and his latest creations on Instagram: @ tim_cubby_blue.
Meet the Artist: Won Kim
For artist Won Kim, great design can communicate a powerful message with remarkable simplicity. His most recent design for GiveAShirt centered on an idea that feels especially relevant today: be nice to each other.
"It represented a simple message of just being nice to each other," Won says. "Sometimes we all need to be reminded."
That combination of simplicity and impact reflects Won's artistic approach. Drawing inspiration from graffiti, nature, and linework, he creates work that is visually engaging while remaining grounded in human connection and everyday experiences.
Won chose to contribute his artwork to Giveashi*t because of his admiration for the people behind the organization and the mission they serve.
"They are wonderful people who actually care to make a difference through their means and reach," he explains. "At the same time, they give a platform for creatives to showcase their artistic skills."
You can follow and support Won's work on Instagram: @revisecmw.
StreetWise provides Chicagoans in need with “a hand up, not a handout.”
StreetWise creates employment opportunities for individuals who are homeless or experiencing poverty. Anyone who wants to work has the opportunity to move themselves out of crisis.
How it all began...
It’s hard to believe that almost 34 years ago on Aug. 24 , 1992, the first edition of StreetWise hit the streets of Chicago. Our founder, Judd Lofchie, developed a practical solution to the crisis of homelessness in Chicago. The idea was simple: give homeless men and women a chance to gain economic self-sufficiency, personal dignity, and to help themselves by selling a newspaper to earn an income rather than begging. More than 350 homeless men and women purchased and sold more than 60,000 issues of StreetWise within the first 5 weeks! Selling StreetWise is a job. Our vendors are self-employed entrepreneurs.
Our success is due to the commitment, dedication, and persistence of our StreetWise vendors. They go out each day to greet you – their loyal customers. It is because of your support that our vendors can pay rent, utilities, purchase food and clothing, and even save some money.
STREETWISE M AGAZINE
StreetWise magazine is an award-winning publication that is socially conscious and Chicago-centric. It raises awareness o f the impact of poverty and homelessness in Chicago, across the nation, and around the world. StreetWise is among the largest “street papers” in the United States and serves as a model for street papers across North America. The editorial staff works hard to provide intriguing articles about today’s important issues as well as entertaining articles to enhance the reader’s daily life.
SUPPORT S ERVICES
Meeting basic needs by providing meals, distributing emergency clothing, and hygiene kits Staff is on hand to assist with accessing community resources and benefits, providing emergency support and referrals for housing, healthcare and legal assistance.
STREETWISE IS EMPOWERING PEOPLE TO WORK!
about THE DAILY PLANET, LTD.
The Daily Planet, Ltd. is a full service video production company headquartered in Chicago with of fi ces in Los Angeles and Washington DC/Baltimore. Daily Planet can concept, shoot, edit and animate; clients include businesses, nonpro fi ts and advertising agencies.
Daily Planet has won multiple Midwest Emmys and Tellys.
StreetWise exists to elevate marginalized voices and provide opportunities for individuals to earn an income and gain employment. Anyone who wants to work has the opportunity to move themselves out of crisis. StreetWise provides “a hand up, not a handout.”
All vendors go through an orientation focusing on their rights and responsibilities as a StreetWise Magazine Vendor. Authorized vendors have badges with their name, picture and current year.
How StreetWise Works
Vendors purchase the magazine for $1.15 and sell it for $3 plus tips. The vendor keeps all of their earnings.
Buy the Magazine, Take the Magazine
When you buy the magazine, take the magazine, and read the magazine, you are supporting our microentrepreneurs earning an income with dignity.
New vendor orientation is every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. at 2009 S. State St. Find your nearest vendor at www.streetwise.org
