With support from the California Arts Council, ROBBY POBLETE FOUNDATION will 1) expand our Art of Peace program to pay stipends to selected ex-offenders, i.e. “clients”; 2) pair clients with artists and welders, if needed; 3) launch exhibit of their work. Art of Peace transforms dismantled guns into art.
1) Gun Buyback program – Buybacks provide a safe and easy way for individuals to dispose of unwanted guns. 2) Art of Peace program – Using metal from the decommissioned guns from our buybacks, artists create art to raise awareness about gun violence. We have broadened our art program beyond artists to include inmates at juvenile detention centers and ex offenders, specifically those who have been convicted of gun-related crimes, so they can mirror their own transformation by turning guns into art. This exercise allows them to earn money while learning a skill at the same time. 3) Work in Progress Vocational program – The Foundation partners with local unions to raise awareness about vocational skills through apprenticeship trades days, workshops, and informational bus tours. In addition, we award apprenticeship scholarships, enabling the awardees to transition from homelessness, overcome lack of opportunity due to criminal records, and other adversities.

