A second chance sprayed in every direction
We Help Trade Violence for a Skilled Trade.
We give young men and women a trade to keep for life — a mentor, a toolbelt, and lifelong credentials in the skilled trades. The Guns for Gunz Initiative is a social enterprise for industrial transformation and a violence prevention program that can save a life and our community. Restoration & Faith Ministry, 2114 Wickhman Ave. Newport News,VA 23607
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A message from our founder
This started with one shipyard and one promise.
"Every young man who walks through our doors trades a weapon for an industrial spray gun, welding torch, a mentor, and a paycheck. It's one hull, one apprentice, and one second chance at a time." Cleon Lockett
Our Mission
From street corners to shipyards.
Guns For Gunz is a community initiative designed to steer at-risk youth away from street violence and toward stable shipbuilding careers. By offering specialized instruction in industrial blasting and coating, the program provides young people with the technical skills and professional certifications necessary to enter the maritime trades.
Participants receive more than just vocational training; the curriculum includes mentorship focused on emotional regulation, professional conduct, and life planning. This holistic approach seeks to replace the cycle of crime with economic opportunity and personal development.
Ultimately, the organization serves as a bridge for teenagers to trade firearms for job prospects, fostering a safer environment through empowerment and skilled labor with a tough and holistic approach.
1-on-1
Mentorship12 wks Ex
Certification trackTrade jobs
Not street cornersGuns For Gunz Initiative
We turn the concept of a voluntary firearm turn-in program into for example twelve weeks of hands-on trade training, mentorship, parenting classes, and paid apprenticeship placements. Every graduate steps into a real skilled trade career, not just a certificate.
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