Word from Our President:

GNG will be introducing a new level of participation. Past graduates will be invited to return as Mentors for our new students. In this role, they will be helping to teach, host graduations and be awarded certificates for completing the GNG Mentoring Program.

Michelle Diaz,
President, GNG Canada

Changing the World , One Kid at a Time.

The goal of Guitars Not Guns is to help prevent violence in schools and on the streets by providing at-risk youth with focus and self-actualization. We aim to empower them with the most fundamental tool to succeed – believe in yourself and you can accomplish anything.

Using music as a catalyst we encourage children and teens to use their creativity to foster personal development and to help divert them from self-destructive influences such as drugs, alcohol and gang related activities. By providing free guitars and lessons we hope to engage their creative potential and help them achieve their dreams.

Our programs are for at-risk children and teens ages 8 -18 using low teacher-to-student ratios. Each class consists of a maximum of 10 students with three adult instructors. In addition to learning how to master changing from a C to a D chord, children learn perseverance and self-esteem. More importantly, the kids learn to enjoy the interaction and have fun in a group setting. Those who complete the full 8 week program are allowed to keep the guitar and are encouraged to return for Level 2. Jam sessions are offered to keep the kids engaged and to help them practice what they have learned.

Email: gngcanada@msn.com

"Music can heal. It can do more than ease the pain. It can throw a lifeline to kids who can't be reached in any other way." – Paul McCartney