Why Support GnG NCA Music Programs for At Risk Youth

Changing the World on a Tuesday Night

A book about ordinary people who are making an extraordinary difference. Guitars Not Guns Music Program is one of the nonprofits featured.

Creating Solutions vs Relieving Symptoms

Behind each need is a problem to be solved. The desired response is an approach that meets the need – provides immediate relief to those adversely affected – and solves the problem – prevents others from falling into the same circumstance. This is a difficult, but not impossible challenge.

Declining availability of music programs in the public sector

When school budgets must be trimmed, music and art programs are usually one of the first things to go. Although recognized a core-subject area, they don’t carry the same weight as math and English/language arts. Programs cut from the school’s curriculum can come back as extra-curricular activities but at a cost to students; a reality that excludes youth of limited means.

Kids with nowhere to go, end up… going nowhere

By nature, people prefer to operate within their comfort zone; within a familiar environment. Living in an adverse environment is unpleasant, but it is the comfort zone for those born into it. Convincing them that they can move to a better environment and that there are resources to help them do it is a very difficult task.

Understanding the benefits of a music program

Research has shown a strong correlation between music education and a person’s success in life. Youth involved in quality music programs tend to do better in school; score higher on standardized tests; be less inclined to engage in risky behavior; and be more inclined to take advantage of positive opportunities made available to them.

Poverty's impact on youth

Poverty affects a child both physically and mentally. They are weighed down by a world of no; whether it is basic necessities, recreation opportunities or extracurricular programs designed to benefit them, their parents tell them they do not have the means for them to have it or participate in it. Some think that this kind of childhood wreaks greater havoc on a child than almost any child-abuse scenario.

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