ABOUT DSGSC

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to develop the social and emotional skills of Washington D.C.’s underserved youth by introducing them to the fundamentals of filmmaking, equipping them with a healthy and creative way to express themselves and positively impact their communities.

WHO WE ARE

Don’t Shoot Guns, Shoot Cameras (DSGSC) is a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) based program created by entertainer, philanthropist and Washington, DC native Rodney “Red” Grant. Rodney has combined more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry to curate an immersive 2-week camp that explores every aspect of creative writing, videography, and film production.

WHAT WE DO

DSGSC introduces students (ages 12 to 17) to the fundamentals of film making while incorporating SEL principles of self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, social awareness, and relationship skills. Students will complete DSGSC having gained technical skills to creatively express themselves through film, as well as valuable emotional skills to positively impact their everyday lives.

MEET THE FOUNDER

Rodney “Red” Grant is an American comedian, actor, writer, and producer. Known for his infectious laugh and his unrelenting work ethic, Red spends a solid forty eight weeks a year on the road doing stand-up.

Red began his career in 1996 performing at New York’s Apollo Theatre. He’s since gone on to star in such films as “American Hustle” and “First Sunday” alongside contemporaries such as Katt Williams, Ice Cube and Tracy Morgan. Red has performed on “Shaq’s All Star Comedy Jam” and appeared in Comedy Central’s “Reality Bites Back.”

He’s written for such shows as Snoop Dogg’s “Dogg After Dark” and Comedy Central’s “Roast of Flavor Flav.” And he’s graced the small screen in his own hour-long Showtime special “Caught Red Handed” and Comedy Central Presents’ half-hour special “Red Grant.”

As an avid golfer and humanitarian, Red takes pride in giving back to the community, which he does with his annual charity golf tournament “Golf Beef.” Some of his cohorts who’ve joined him for the event include GRAMMY winner Snoop Dogg, actor/comedian Cedric The Entertainer, Hall of Famers Gary Payton and Jim Brown, former NBA champion Matt Barnes, and long-drive champion Troy Mullins – to name a few. Red is a DC Native and member of Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc.

MEET YASMIN SALINA

For over a decade Yasmin has spent her free time mentoring inner-city youth and preparing them to enter higher education and the workforce. Yasmin dedicated six years serving the Obama Administration at both the White House and the Department of Homeland Security. During her tenure, she has served as a key point person in the Office of Management & Administration and the Office of Partnership and Engagement respectively.

Yasmin was inspired to start the Hustlers Guild off of the foundations of her career and things she loves most; outreach, development, music, and youth advocacy. With a love of hip hop and understanding the importance of youth development, she felt it made sense to extend her resources as a blueprint for those in her community who need it most. Yasmin is a graduate of Alabama State University, where she received her BA in Communications.

MEET MATT BARNES

The basketball court was just the beginning for retired NBA Champion Matt Barnes whose 14- year career included roles on the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Los Angeles Clippers to name a few. Having studied History at UCLA, the Sacramento native has entered the investment world as an entrepreneur with a bold vision that pushes all boundaries.

In response to the legalization of Cannabis and the disproportionate criminalization in urban communities, Matt launched SWISH. The brand strives to educate the global population on the health and wellness benefits of CBD + THC and will create economic opportunities for marginalized populations. Recognizing the power of a diverse portfolio,

Matt is also co-owner of a men’s grooming line (HUE), a flower boutique (OLDVINE), Very Tall Productions, a juice bar chain (LIQUIDOLOGY) and an NBA licensed bedding line (ACTIVE DREAMERS) that allows the league’s biggest fans to decorate their rooms like a pro.

Further demonstrating his dedication to improving the lives of others, Matt founded Athletes Vs. Cancer (AVC) in honor of his mother Ann who lost her battle to the disease in 2007. With a mission to provide patients and their families with resources to allow them to fight, AVC partners with research institutions and celebrities to enhance public awareness of innovative treatment methods with the ultimate goal of prevention.

Known for a fierce, competitive spirit on the court, Matt is no stranger to a challenge. While navigating the roadblocks of a very public life, retirement is just the beginning. His authenticity and compassion set the stage for a powerful story where success belongs to those who give their all.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to develop the social and emotional skills of Washington D.C.’s underserved youth by introducing them to the fundamentals of filmmaking, equipping them with a healthy and creative way to express themselves and positively impact their communities.

CONTACT US

For more information, email us: info@dontshootgunsshootcameras.com