Neon Mermaid Comics: Help Create a Hub for All Ages.

Hello everyone, I'm Chris, and I'd like to share my story and the vision for my store.

From a young age, I navigated numerous challenges, including frequent moves, dyslexia, and a physical birth defect. Struggling with reading and math made my education difficult, but with the support of dedicated educators and a budding interest in comics and graphic novels, I gradually overcame these obstacles with self love and patience. These stories fueled a passion for reading, eventually guiding me to major in Creative Writing and Graphic Design. I’ve experienced firsthand the power of finding a passion that motivates personal growth.

As our community evolves, more families with young and teenage children are settling in Little Egg Harbor and Tuckerton, bringing new energy and a need for spaces that cater to their interests. Historically, our community has focused on serving retirees and vacationers, leaving younger generations underserved. This is especially evident in the lack of a dedicated comic book shop—a place for kids, teens, and adults to explore their love for comics, collectibles, and games.

My dream is to open a comic book shop that’s more than just a retail space; it will be a hub for creativity, imagination, and social interaction. It’s a place where young people can discover stories that resonate with them, connect with others who share their passions, and develop a love for reading. With more families moving into the area, it’s time to create a space that meets this growing need. A comic book shop would fill this gap and serve as a vibrant gathering place, fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.

Securing funding is crucial to making this vision a reality. Even $5,000 would help secure a retail location, purchase initial inventory like books and art supplies, cover light advertising to generate community buzz, and set up a POS system. Most importantly, these funds would allow me to develop community outreach programs that bring youth together for positive, in-person experiences.

As a woman of color with a physical and learning disability, I deeply understand the importance of representation and creating welcoming spaces for everyone. Through this venture, I want to set an example and share my story, showing that with passion and persistence, we can overcome challenges and bring people together. This comic book and collectible shop will not just be a business but a beacon of community, inclusivity, and growth.