Our Structure:

Guns Down, Love Up (GDLU) is a Minnesota-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the urgent issue of community and gun violence and its profound impact on the African American and Indigenous Native communities. Our organizational structure is built on collaboration, community-driven leadership, and a commitment to lasting social change.

Our board provides strategic guidance and oversight, ensuring that our mission and vision are consistently reflected in all of our programs and initiatives. The board is comprised of leaders from diverse communities who share a deep commitment to ending gun violence and promoting peace.

Led by our Co-Executive Directors, Rosemary Nevils and Raeisha Williams, the team is responsible for day-to-day operations, program management, and the execution of our mission. This includes initiatives focused on advocacy, community outreach, prevention programs, and partnerships with local organizations and government entities.

The GDLU Youth Council is a dynamic group of young leaders from local communities who play a crucial role in shaping our initiatives. Comprised of youth directly impacted by gun violence, as well as those passionate about driving change, the Youth Council ensures that our programs are culturally relevant, youth-driven, and responsive to the unique needs of young people in African American and Indigenous Native communities. By amplifying the voices of youth, the Council helps guide our efforts to create safer neighborhoods, promote restorative justice, and foster healing, ensuring that the next generation has a seat at the table in the fight against gun violence.

GDLU works closely with local government agencies, educational institutions, faith-based organizations, and national advocacy groups. Our key partnerships include the The White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, U.S. Department of Defense, The City of St. Paul, The City of Minneapolis, the Minnesota Department of Health’s Office of African American Health.