Fashion entrepreneurship class at Sacramento State University helps bring new life to Old Sacramento through service-learning partnerships with local businesses.
Sacramento State University students are making a significant impact on the revitalization of Old Sacramento, a historic district along the Sacramento River. Esther Amato, a Fashion Merchandising and Management lecturer, introduced a fashion entrepreneurship class that incorporates a service-learning component. Students are required to complete 45 hours of fieldwork with local business owners in the Sacramento area. This initiative aims to teach students the ins and outs of being an entrepreneur in the fashion industry while also contributing to the economic growth of the community.
Bringing New Life to Old Sacramento:
Old Sacramento, a 28-acre national registered landmark, has faced challenges in recent years. Once a thriving tourist attraction with cobbled streets and refurbished Gold Rush-era buildings, the area has struggled with declining visitors and a high retail vacancy rate. In response to these challenges, the Sacramento City Council approved a $47 million renovation project in 2019 to attract more residents and businesses to the area. The project includes the creation of a riverfront promenade, a two-story events venue, and open-air spaces. Despite the challenges, business owners like Maggie Baker have been drawn to Old Sacramento due to its unique charm and affordable rent.
Threadeco: A Sustainable Clothing Boutique:
Maggie Baker, the owner of Threadeco boutique, opened her store in Old Sacramento in November 2022. Threadeco specializes in sustainable clothing sourced from returned or overstocked items that never sold. Baker’s mission is to save clothes from ending up in landfills by fixing them and giving them a new life. Her subscription-style box service has gained popularity, attracting customers from across the country. Baker’s commitment to sustainability resonated with Sac State senior Allegra Polendo, who joined her as part of the service-learning program.
Learning and Collaboration:
Polendo, who has a passion for fashion and sustainability, spent her Fridays during the fall semester working with Baker at Threadeco. She conducted research on eco-friendly packaging options for Baker’s subscription-style boxes, creating a comprehensive presentation that proved invaluable to the business. Polendo also assisted with putting together outfits for the boxes and managing the store’s social media presence. Another student, Lance Hayes, helped Baker with events and marketing, developing a customer loyalty program and organizing a charity event. The students’ contributions have not only helped the businesses but have also provided them with real-world experience and insights into the fashion industry.
Conclusion:
The collaboration between Sacramento State students and local business owners in Old Sacramento is breathing new life into the historic district. Through the fashion entrepreneurship class and the service-learning component, students are gaining valuable experience while supporting the growth and sustainability of the local economy. The success of businesses like Threadeco showcases the potential for revitalization in Old Sacramento, and the students’ contributions exemplify the power of community engagement and collaboration. As the district continues to undergo renovations, these partnerships will be instrumental in shaping the future of Old Sacramento and preserving its rich history.
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