I recently read in the Connection Newspaper about Guitars not Guns, a nonprofit whose mission has swept the nation. Skip Chaples, a local Northern Virginian, began a chapter, here, in Northern Virginia in 2006 after a boy in his boy scout troop was shot and killed. This nonprofit has its roots in California, but its worth spans the nation.
Initially begun to provide an outlet for children who come from poor backgrounds, Guitars not Guns has continued to offer guitar lessons to children in communities throughout the nation. There is not an exact number of children which the group has saved from violent behavior and gang involvement, but it has helped numerous families, and helping even just one child from a life of violence is a huge success.
Guitars not Guns further proves the healing power of music. I wrote last month about the health benefits from playing and listening to music, such as reducing a person's blood pressure. This nonprofit and NOVA Music recognizes the importance of music in every person's life. NOVA Music offers music lessons at our shop, teaching guitar, ukulele, violin, and much more. Introduce yourself or your child to the magic of music and witness the transformation!
~Lisa
