About Hug Don't Shoot
Our Mission
Our Programs
Our Programs
HUG DON'T SHOOT ™ is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on providing a sense of peace throughout the communities one HUG at a time.
Our Programs
Our Programs
Our Programs
Hug Don’t Shoot is a community-based organization founded in Baltimore, focused on violence prevention, youth engagement, and community wellness. Through family-centered programming, resource distribution, and strong partnerships, we create safe spaces, connect residents to essential supports, and work to build stronger, more connected neighborhoods rooted in healing and hope.
Our Impact
Our Programs
Our Impact
Our impact is rooted in prevention, connection, and community. HUG DON'T SHOOT engages youth and families, distributes essential resources, and partners with local organizations to reduce harm, increase access, and foster safer, more connected neighborhoods.
Support Hug Don't Shoot's Mission
Donate Now
Volunteer Opportunities
Your donation helps support our organization's mission to make a positive impact in the community. We appreciate your generosity and support!
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
Become a Hug Dealer by volunteering with Hug Don’t Shoot. Our volunteers play a vital role in uplifting families, supporting youth, and strengthening communities. Join us and make a difference today.
Merch
Merch
Become a Hug Dealer by volunteering with Hug Don’t Shoot. Our volunteers play a vital role in uplifting families, supporting youth, and strengthening communities. Join us and make a difference today.
About OUR FOUNDER
Val Jenkins
Val Jenkins founded Hug Don’t Shoot, a local Baltimore nonprofit that seeks to bring a sense of peace to the community.
“One Hug at a Time.”
The organization was born out of Val’s trustration with the city’s high crime rate and an enduring conviction that things could get better by spreading compassion and empathy throughout communities. Hu
Val Jenkins founded Hug Don’t Shoot, a local Baltimore nonprofit that seeks to bring a sense of peace to the community.
“One Hug at a Time.”
The organization was born out of Val’s trustration with the city’s high crime rate and an enduring conviction that things could get better by spreading compassion and empathy throughout communities. Hug Don’t Shoot provides anti-violence resources and creates programs and activities that support and educate local youth.
The nonprofit also recruits “Hug Dealers” to provide support to local youth, families of victims, and families during the holidays. The organization has participated in more than 500 events at hospitals, nursing homes, and community centers across Baltimore City to increase awareness about their cause.
On August 5, 2017, Hug Don’t Shoot, along with hundreds of concerned residents, community advocates, and supporters from across Maryland, will stand hand-to-hand over more than a 5-mile radius, declaring the desire to end gun violence in Baltimore and beyond.
Our Partners
