Mission

We provide guitars and lessons to foster children and at-risk youth in a classroom setting with qualified teachers as an alternative to violence.

The Big Idea

Last year's Big Idea was to raise funds to purchase guitars for under-served schools in Monterey County. Toward that end we were able to raise enough money through our Big Idea to purchase 350 Keith Urban Yamaha guitars and Gator guitar cases for schools in Monterey County. This year we want to expand on last year's Big Idea and purchase electric guitars and amps for schools. This is in addition to the free classes and guitars that Guitars Not Guns has provided in Monterey County during the last 15 years.

The recent donation of guitars to local school districts has greatly enhanced our music programs by offering numerous benefits to students, such as improved cognitive abilities. This donation has helped to ensure that students, regardless of their background or financial situation, have the opportunity to experience the joys and rewards of playing a musical instrument.”

- Deneen Guss