History

“Guitars not Guns” (GnG) was founded by Ray and Louise Nelson. They became foster parents in 1992 and it was through this experience that Ray realized these youth needed more positive opportunities to help them grow into productive citizens. Ray was a life long musician; he knew the benefits of engaging in a music program and he saw few music opportunities for these youth.

He decided to start a music program for foster kids; any child that had the desire would be provided a guitar and free lessons. On July 24, 2000 Guitars not Guns was incorporated and became a federally exempt 501(c) (3) non-profit. Shortly thereafter they started their first guitar class with two volunteer teachers in San Jose, California. Over the next few years classes expanded to neighboring Counties in California and the program expanded to include any youth living in adverse circumstances who lacked the means to participate in a music program. In 2006 the program started spreading outside of California; today GnG’s Music Program is operating in several states and Canada.

Guitars not Guns Virginia was chartered as a GnG Affiliate in June 2006; Guitars not Guns Maryland and Guitars not Guns Washington D.C. were  chartered as GnG Affiliates in April 2009. Virginia, Maryland and DC operate jointly as GnG NCA (Guitars Not Guns of the National Capital Area). Collectively we operate 32 teaching locations and serve over 300 youth annually. New locations are being opened as volunteers and funds are found to operate them.