Henrico County has seen an increase of youth gun violence in schools and in the community. When kids are faced with a conflict (external and internal)they are now more likely to respond by using a gun. The only way to combat this issue is to talk to our children about gun violence and ways in which conflicts can be solved without a weapon. One of the first steps is to bring awareness to the issue by having conversations with our children about how they feel about gun violence and how it may affect them in the community, at school, and on a personal level.
How was AGI created?
Which is how AGI (Anti-Gun Initiative) came to be. Because he was created for and by students, children will be able to form a deeper connection to AGI and become more responsive/interactive with his messaging.
Who is AGI?
AGI is a young Malinois dog who was rescued on the street by a police officer, after he lost his sister, Agent, to gun violence. This made him passionate about improving his community, with the focus of combating gun violence. AGI is a calm listening figure who is there for your children when they face a conflict. He serves as a reminder to kids to not act with violence and instead de-escalate a harmful situation.
What’s AGI doing now?
AGI is traveling around the community working with local students. He is teaching steps on how to react to stressful situations (without using violence) and providing a space for kids to express their feelings/stories on gun violence (without feeling judged) by having small group discussions with their peers and older students.
Future Plans for AGI
We are currently working with Hermitage High School’s ACE students to create stickers, t-shirts, magnets, etc. of AGI. This will allow you and your children a way to spread the word about AGI and his drive to combat gun violence and promote a safe-space in which kids can express their feelings about stopping gun violence.
