Music Changing Lives has shown and taught me so much as a growing artist. MCL shows up for the community artists in many intentional ways like providing music and art programs, assisting and planning community garden events, and showing up for the youth by providing artistic events to showcase local talent. I am beyond grateful to be connected with MCL and they deserve as much praise and respect as possible.
So my daughter was 8yrs old when when MCL enter her life. Shawn love to sing but afraid to be on stage. MCL change that, by giving her all the help, encouragement and encouragement to get over her fair of been on stage. MCL gave Shawn a gift of a shinning light to her heart to be great. Shawn is 16 yrs old one week now and the shinning light burns brighter in every way possible. Music Changing Life, Thank you.
At Soulful Soil Farms, we don’t just grow food—we grow community, and if there’s one organization that has been there to lift us up, inspire us, and truly change lives, it’s Music Changing Lives.
For over 26 years, they’ve been a driving force of positivity, helping people discover their potential and providing the tools to succeed. But their impact goes far beyond individuals—they’ve lifted entire communities, including ours. Without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.
They’ve shown up for us in ways we’ll never forget. They have incredible programs that inspire creativity and confidence, they genuinely care and they pour into everything they do.
They’ve been a partner, a cheerleader, and a friend who believes in our mission as much as we do. Their passion for helping everyone—kids, families, organizations like ours—is truly unmatched.
Thank you, Music Changing Lives, for being the heart of our community. You’ve touched so many lives, including ours, and we’re forever grateful for the love and inspiration you’ve shared. Here’s to continuing to grow and make a difference together.
With love and gratitude,
Soulful Soil Farms
My experience with music changing life has been nothing but amazing. Josiah took me in fresh out of school as the recording engineer and paved the way for my career so far. Not to mention the fact that I'm helping the community by my services of making great music. Without a doubt Music Changing Lives five star nonprofit organization.
We love Music changing Lifes. Josiah and the staff are doing great things for the community and always giving back. The job is never complete and this organization always knows how to brings smiles to everyone..
As someone who's been organizing with marginalized communities for over 10 years, it's refreshing and serendipitous to find a non-profit so dedicated to causes that im passionate about. I love how invented MCL is in improving the livelihood of artists, youth and people in SoCal (& beyond) and how much they give back -- both literally/tangibly and emotionally/mentally/spiritually. Go MCL!
Music Changing Lives, under the exceptional leadership of CEO Josiah Bruny, has been an invaluable partner in our journey at NSG Impact. With their expertise, we navigated the process of becoming a legitimate 501(c)(3) nonprofit, ensuring that we do things the right way. Their unique approach to impacting kids through art and music is nothing short of remarkable, unlike anything I've seen before. Music Changing Lives is undoubtedly a top-tier organization, and their contributions have played a pivotal role in bringing NSG Impact to the successful position we hold today.
I am writing to express my unwavering support and immense pride in being part of the Music Changing Lives (MCL) community. Having served as a board member for over five years and also witnessing the transformative impact of this organization on my own child, I can attest that MCL is not just a name; it is a force of positive change in our community.
Music Changing Lives is, quite simply, a life-changer. Their commitment to nurturing young talent and providing exceptional opportunities in the realm of music and fine arts is unparalleled in the Inland Empire. My personal journey with MCL began when my daughter participated in their afterschool program. The caliber of lessons and experiences she received, completely free of charge, was extraordinary. It is this dedication to offering high-quality training in music, dance, instruments, art, and more to underprivileged children that initially motivated me to volunteer. I may not have had substantial financial resources to contribute, but I had time and talents that I was more than willing to share.
As I've served on the board, I have had the privilege of witnessing MCL's remarkable growth. They have expanded their reach to multiple cities and launched the Urban Garden initiative, which not only brings life and value to San Bernardino but also provides much-needed food to the community. The "Concert Under the Stars" program has given countless artists a platform and a voice, while their food distribution center has alleviated the struggles of many families. Their beautiful murals, gracing the walls of our state, serve as a testament to their commitment to enhancing the visual landscape and the spirit of our communities.
What truly sets MCL apart is their unwavering belief in a better tomorrow. They are not content with offering mere handouts; instead, they extend a hand up, empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. Their dedication to the people and their genuine care for the community is palpable in every endeavor. At MCL, "all hands on deck" is not just a phrase – it's a way of life. They have even gone above and beyond by bringing the State of the Youth Conference. This pioneering initiative connects young minds with leaders in various fields, paving the way for a brighter future.
In my eyes, Music Changing Lives is a game changer, and I am profoundly proud to serve on their board. Their tireless efforts, unwavering commitment, and genuine care for the community make them a true beacon of hope in the Inland Empire. MCL is not just an organization; it is a source of inspiration, a catalyst for positive change, and a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites with a common purpose.
Thank you for your continued support of Music Changing Lives. Together, we can help MCL continue to make a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals and our community as a whole.
In March of 2019 I had just come back from work training in British Columbia, CA.
My new purchasing and inventory position with a major worldwide firefighting air fleet company that required me to have several managerial positions.
I experienced one of my first anxiety attacks. I realized this was not the job for me.
I decided to take a leap of faith, and jumped into the void of unemployment, with the possibility of retirement. I felt compelled to be of service to my community. I wanted to see what it looked and felt like to set up and establish sound relationships to help our Inland Empire students of all ages to rise up, with insightful programs that inspire creative expressions, to grow, flourish, and prosper.
As I became more involved in our community through my art, I was drawn to help others and joined several community cleanups in San Bernardino, as my way of leading by example to take care of our city. My art and community involvement lead me to a seat on the board of directors of The San Bernardino Art Association.
I had seen and heard of Music Changing Lives and eagerly responded to their call for a community mural project happening by the Breeze Way off Court St. in downtown San Bernardino on Saturday, June 20th. 2020. The theme of the mural was 'Know Justice Know Peace' and 'Spread Paint Not Hate' tour. It was here that I first met Josiah and the Music Changing Lives team. I was so excited to be a part of the mural in our city and sharing with everyone else made it just that much better! I took my slotted 15-20 mins. of painting on the mural and proceeded to mix all the color pigments for the fists of power that are on the mural.
It felt so good and so liberating to be creating this mural with our community in honor of those lives senselessly taken.
Sometime in the early spring of 2020 I was in severe pain for 8 to 9 months and was told my C6 bone in in my neck was bent backwards and was pinching off the all the nerves in my arm back and neck. I could not move at all without it being overtly painful! My right and dominate arm was rendered too painful to use as it felt like burning knives and a never ending vise-grip on my right forearm. I thought this was going to be with me for the rest of my life as the doctors approved the removal of the C6 and then adding a cage and titanium rod going down my spine. This took me to a dark place inside and I felt very sad and depressed. Meanwhile my heart rate was over 200. I do not care to become a guinea pig and not one for western medicine. I started looking into the root of my problem and turns out that too much inflammation in our bodies can cause all kinds of illness and injuries. I looked into several enzyme eating supplements, vitamins and minerals and changed my diet a bit. Within two months of staying true to the new health regime I began to feel some relief and the pain slowly starting to subside. I believe that my work with Music Changing Lives aided in my healing. Gratefully, I have healed and survived this aliment with only a few dead nerves in my right thumb and index fingers. I am continually grateful to be able to use my arm and even more so to be here with you all here today is a blessing for sure!
About six to eight months later I was coming home up Electric Ave. and couldn't help but notice that a patch of land that was being used for years as a local dump spot was being cleared and cleaned up by the city. I was ecstatic and jumped out of my car and started taking pictures. City workers probably thought I was someone checking up on them? I was so stoked. I took several photos and shared them.
Then within a week or so I see the Music Changing Lives banner go up on the building on the corner of 40th and Electric Ave. I was so excited to see this that I had to call to find out what is going on?
That's when I found out they were going to start distributing food to our community every Wednesday.
I am normally a night owl, but I felt I could contribute my time and energies once a week to help distribute these blessings of free food. Wow what a wonderfully rewarding felling to be of service and help others in need. Around this time I asked to be on the board for Music Changing Lives. I had no idea what it would involve or what I could contribute, as I felt compelled to be of assistance to such an amazing group of people that are doing so many positive and life changing activities.
Unbeknownst to me I was granted and extra year of unemployment benefits because of the volunteer hours I was putting in during the food distributions and Soulful Sundays. Since I was connected and volunteered with a group that aids and assists kids, this allowed me to fit the EDD requirements and was able to stay on top of bills and I remain so Grateful to Music Changing Lives for your presence in our lives.
Across from this building ,The Uptown Music Changing Lives Urban Gardens, evolved.
This is yet another blessing to me and for our community to have an open local community garden in San Bernardino, and I say the more the healthier! I'm grateful there is a place where the local community grows food for all and comes together for mindful moments, music, food, education, crafts, sustainability and unity in the community.
Since my connection with MCL, I have assisted with painting multiple murals throughout the IE, several art and music show cases, economic empowerment concerts, State of the Youth annual program, food distribution, and Soulful Sundays in the Uptown Urban Garden. Recently, now that the garden is sleeping, we have joined the Urban Conservation Corps. and have taken trips to our local mountains and beaches for environmental cleanup and learning experiences.
Together we have earned awards and recognition from the President of the United States, as well as our local city and state governments, for all the positive involvement we create, with care and compassion.
I am so stoked and overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to be involved and associated with Music Changing Lives.
The cherry on the top is we just finished putting together a music video for the upcoming holidays. This was my second time ever in a real recording studio. Gratefully I was invited to participate both vocally and with percussion's. This experience was a dream come true for me as a child I sang in several choirs throughout my school years.
Dreams do come true and I thank you Music Changing Lives for making so many dreams realities for us all!
I am looking forward as we grow together to a magnificent future of sharing our cultures, music, art, food, love, joy and harmony with all.
Peace and Richest Blessings,
Steven Bielak
City of San Bernardino Arts and Historical Commissioner for Ward 1
It was an incredible experience joining the workshop Envision Me 1 day Event. Met alot of beautiful people. Warm and welcoming atmosphere. Fun activities and great energy. Looking forward to the next one!
Music Changing Lives was awesome to partner with in engaging our school community in community art project.
This is an amazing organization that works with our youth. I have had many family and friends benefit from MCL. This was God sent to help our community and children!
Hi I am Christine Marie a 11 year old HipHop R&B and Spanish artist. I was looking for a non profit organization to work with and was invited to a workshop by Music Changes Lives and myself and my family was so impressed we have been working with them ever since. I performed at 3 of their events and will continue to support them in the future. So much fun and great people
Thank You Music Changes Lives
Music Changing Lives has been a tremendous partner with Malcolm’s Heart, Inc. by consistently providing fresh produce items for our Boxes of Love program. The volunteers that distribute the produce have a generous and servant spirit as they are helping those in need come in for the food distribution. It is a blessing to see the impact Music Changing Lives is having on the community.
I work with a young man named Isaiah Ochoa. He is a 17 year old with Cerebral Palsy and has always wanted to do big things. He started making music in 2021 but it was simply for fun and didn't think it would go very far. Then we heard about Music Changing Lives. They wanted to meet with Isaiah right away. They loved his story and introduced him to real young artists that helped him with advice on how to start and build a business as a musician. Music Changing Lives also gave him a platform and allowed him to perform his songs on a stage in front of people and spread Cerebral Palsy awareness. Music Changing Lives definitely helped a young person immensely and we thank them for all of their help and support!
I've watched MCL be a blessing to so many over the last 15 plus years. Their footprint in the community has impacted so many homes and has bridged so many gaps! So glad to see the power of community bonds flourish in this manor!
Best Regards!
Jameela Frierson
CEO of Cosheba Cigars
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My name is Angela Wilkinson, Great Great Granddaughter of Redlands First African American Pioneer Settler Israel Beal, who played a major role in the development of the City of Redlands CA. Josiah Bruny's Music Changing lives made a hughe impact in the City of Redlands CA communities and to my Families Heritage. His continuous work in helping communities thru out the Inland Empire and his Urban Garden, has made it possible for all Youth, Adults and non-profits to join him his work in helping communities with his Art. Music Changing lives Will always be a non-profit who cares about communities and the future as well as I and my family will be forever grateful to him and Music Changing lives.
Dear Music Changing Lives,
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Terrell Powell, and I wanted to take a moment to express my appreciation for the impactful work that your organization, Music Changing Lives, has been doing in our community.
Your commitment to using music as a catalyst for positive change is truly commendable. Through your programs and initiatives, you are making a significant difference in the lives of individuals and our community as a whole.
The transformative power of music is evident in the way you are changing lives, providing opportunities, and fostering creativity among those you serve. Your dedication to this mission is not only inspiring but also vital for the growth and well-being of our community.
I want to extend my gratitude to all the members of Music Changing Lives for their hard work, passion, and dedication. Your organization is a beacon of hope, offering a brighter future through the universal language of music.
Thank you for your tireless efforts and for making our community a better place. I look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact of Music Changing Lives on the lives of many.
Sincerely,
Terrell Powell
Music Changing Lives as done amazing work in the community to benefit all age groups from food distribution, to a garden for the community and also the Pop-Ups that serve the community entertainment, health,wealth, and civil engagement with the youth to build a brighter future for all. MCL goes above and beyond for the communities they serve. I was able to take my children out to volunteer cleaning up and planting vegetables in the garden. We enjoyed it as a family and after was fed and taught about our mental health. It was a unique experience.
An amazing organization that not only improves the lives of children and youth through the arts, but also enhances the community with their food distribution programs, beautification projects, and urban garden project.
I met Josiah, Music Changing Lives leader, earlier this year. We spoke on a few occasions and what stands out is every point of contact has resulted in action. We partnered on little libraries, visiting his new facility and discussing how we can partner for a healthier community for the families we serve. MCL has been great to work with and I look forward to what is to come!
I met Josiah Bruny during the pandemic in an attempt to fill my free time with some community service. He was recommended by Jenna Lowry from Redlands City Council.
At that time he was just beginning a community garden project. The entire experience has been uplifting, educational and just what I needed. This is a place of inclusion and service. Community is what people need right now and Music Changing Lives is providing that. Thank you.
Music Changing Lives invited me to speak and workshop with the youth members of their curated to detail conference. The experience was both fulfilling and life empowering.
- Chris Lyric
Music Changing Lives continues to help the community by establishing a community garden and providing resources to the area and without MCL, San Bernardino would not be what it is today.
I went to the state of the youth conference, which was hosted by Musc Changing Lives, and it was a fun experience that helped us learn a lot about the different policies that impact our communities. We learned about opportunities that can help us make a positive difference on local, state, and federal levels by getting involved and learning how to engage our communities. We also got free outfits, school, and work-related items, which are very helpful when minding our appearance in professional settings. We learned about professional etiquette, about entrepreneurship, mindfulness, and taking care of our mental and physical well-being. This organization has been really helpful in guiding young leaders for the betterment of the world and our future. The leadership team and everyone involved has been extremely kind and welcoming of us, our ideas, and of our needs. They continue to build and practice advocacy efforts grassroots, which helps our current and future leaders.
MCL is most certainly changing lives! Not only are the young people who are recipients of the many programs that MCL offers becoming changed, volunteers who come our to work are becoming changed. I’m grateful to be able to volunteer and support the work of MCL to improve our community!
Great staff and team!
Music Changing Lives does more than just music but serves as a pillar for the Inland Empire communities.
This organization is a beautiful thing. I’ve known the CEO/Founder Josiah Bruny for quite some time now & he is passionate about his community & the the kids. Music Changing Lives has created a home for a variety of children from a a variety of cultures, which has allowed a melting pot of talents to be displayed. This organization has given children a creative outlet as well as provided the community with love & support. Being connected to this organization or anyone who’s a part of this organization is divine.
My daughter enjoys her piano lessons! With COVID-19 restrictions, we’ve had tough way of socializing and engaging with other kids, the virtual platform allows this and learning. Plus, it’s free & equipment can be rented! Love it! Would highly recommend!
They are so active in their community... and passionate about serving. Doing so many amazing things during Covid such as food programs, community murals, backpack giveaways, etc. they have really responded to the needs. A pleasure to work and partner with them.
Hello everyone im so excited to share my experience with music Changing Lives, I lovecto help out in my community and others with passion I volunteer blessing others with food , toys for the holidays and much more I invite you to come hang out with us.. giving is passion thank you Music Changing Lives
It’s always good to give back to those in need and music change lives showed us the love they have for all community and support those who are in need it’s a great family to be apart of thank you guys for all that you do for the community it’s amazing.
MCL is doing big things for the Inland Empire! I see them out in the actual neighborhoods, feeding families, cleaning up litter, and beautifying communities with amazing public artworks! Their hard work should be recognized and rewarded.
Music Changing Lives has an amazing group of individuals who really know how to make things happen. The conscious effort Josiah creates to generate impact and growth within the community is one of a kind. From the moment I attended one event, I've been able to help even more in my community, and become a part of a real change! I'm so glad I've met them and would encourage people who want to be surrounded by positive and thriving energy to come and check them out!
It's more than the music, it's the powerful combination of music and vision, an appreciation of music's real impact that attracted me to Music Changing Lives as a non-profit. MCL is built upon great ideas, sustainable strategies and committed volunteers all with the shared mission. On behalf of all those you serve, BRAVO!
We met Josiah from MCL back in June 2018 when we started our first organization Sister’s Fighting For A Change. He is a great man with a great team behind him. He assisted us with some things for our organization so that we can succeed especially since we was a fairly new organization. Months passed by then we begin preparing for our first event together in Arizona, which was the Ball 4 A Cause Phoenix Arizona. It was a great event. It was a very close game, however MCL took home the trophy we’re still waiting for our rematch. We have collaborated on many community projects together events like community feedings, city clean-ups, and less-fortunate giving etc. We support each other’s events and projects. We’re grateful to have met Josiah, Jess, and Vanessa and the team they do so much for many communities and families.
Building Up Lives Foundation a Nonprofit can lean on MCL, they are always there to support us and the community ♥️♥️
Thank you for assisting us to feed 7000 a week
Love that this organization focus on the future of children, help children recognize their talents, and help keep children out of trouble.
These guys are sincerely passionate and intentional about what they do. They recognise that power of music and its ability to transform the lives of individuals, and their local communities. They remain consistent and digilent in their mission to provide the highest quality music and art enrichment programs to underprivileged and at-risk youth by embracing local, national and international ventures to work with a variety of young people.
Music Changing Lives lives up to their name! Everyone there especially Josiah really encouraged me and gave me that push to do better in school and to express myself musically. Best program I know hands down!
I've known Josiah Bruny for more than 15 years. He walked into my office wanting me to design an album cover and after talking with him we discovered he was more passionate about helping others rather than making music. To see where he’s taken the organization, Music Changing Lives, is truly unbelievable. This is a testament to always think big and never give up on your dreams!
Music Changing Lives has been a life changing opportunity for my 10 year old son. He has been in the program for 3 years. He was in the instrument class, DJ, visited UCR on a field trip and also had the opportunity to showcase his talents at the annual MCL Show.
The whole experience was at no cost to the students and Has been a great opportunity for our family to spend quality time. We’ve attended the Fall Festival, also a free event with lots of activities and prizes for all the kids!
This organization exceeded my expectations!!!! We attended recently the Ball 4 a cause event and it was perfect. It felt like a nigh family gathering. The owners of the organization were so personable and welcomed everyone by walking around and making sure we all have an amazing time all while supporting such a great cause. Keep it up bc I will be at all the things this organization puts together!!!! Love what they stand for
I have been working with Music Changing Lives for many years! They are passionate about their Mission and demonstrate it each and every day. They are also leaders within many Communities working collaboratively with many organizations to help create a stronger Civic engagement. They are the first organization to raise their hand and take action. Our local Communities are very grateful for the work that they do for our youth & our residents.
We love MCL so much! They teach excellent to the kids. Our son now from being one of their students, he is performing as DJ to their school programs.
Musicchanginglives helped me in many different ways such as: helping me with events, helping me stay out of trouble and also keeps me motivated to do big goals I Thank you Musicchanging
Music Changing Lives helps keep music and arts alive in our community. I recently had the wonderful opportunity of touring the facility and participating in the “Ball 4 A Cause”, event “amazing experience”. I truly commend the MCL organization for the outstanding work they are doing in our community.
Music Changing Lives is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged children by encouraging them to pursue their dreams in music and art. MCL provides these students with the equipment they need, experienced music instructors, as well as educational resources to assist in their homework and overall performance at school.
My experience at MCL as the administrative assistant to the CEO, Josiah Bruny, was rewarding in many aspects. I had the opportunity to be a part of a hard-working team and learned so much about what it takes to run a non-profit. Everyday there were tasks to be taken care of such as making sure there are enough snacks for the kids, answering e-mails and phone calls from parents and city officials, organizing materials for each school site, finding new and inventive ways to make the program a better experience, etc.
The students love the program and are all encouraged to showcase their talents at the annual MCL Showcase. The showcase allows students to present everything they have learned throughout the year and I am so happy to have been a part of the 2017 Showcase, which was a success. Hundreds of parents and school officials showed up and we received a lot of positive feedback. Music Changing Lives is a great program for students who want to further their music and arts education, make new friends, and pave their way towards their dreams.
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Music Changing Lives is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children by encouraging them to pursue their dreams in music and art. MCL provides these students with the equipment and instructors they need, as well as educational resources to assist in their homework and overall performance at school. My experience at MCL as the administrative assistant to the CEO, Josiah Bruny, was rewarding in many aspects. I had the opportunity to be a part of a hard-working team and learned so much about what it takes to run a non-profit. Everyday there were tasks to be taken care of such as making sure there are enough snacks for the kids, answering e-mails and phone calls from parents and city officials, organizing materials for each school site, finding new and inventive ways to make the program a better experience, etc. The students love the program and are all encouraged to showcase their talents at the annual MCL Showcase. The showcase allows students to present everything they have learned throughout the year and this year's showcase (2017) was a success. Hundreds of parents and school officials showed up and we received a lot of positive feedback. MCL is a great program for students who want to further their music and arts education while making new friends.
Music Changing Lives is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged children by encouraging them to pursue their dreams in music and art. MCL provides these students with the equipment they need, experienced music instructors, as well as educational resources to assist in their homework and overall performance at school.
My experience at MCL as the administrative assistant to the CEO, Josiah Bruny, was rewarding in many aspects. I had the opportunity to be a part of a hard-working team and learned so much about what it takes to run a non-profit. Everyday there were tasks to be taken care of such as making sure there are enough snacks for the kids, answering e-mails and phone calls from parents and city officials, organizing materials for each school site, finding new and inventive ways to make the program a better experience, etc.
The students love the program and are all encouraged to showcase their talents at the annual MCL Showcase. The showcase allows students to present everything they have learned throughout the year and I am so happy to have been a part of the 2017 Showcase, which was a success. Hundreds of parents and school officials showed up and we received a lot of positive feedback. Music Changing Lives is a great program for students who want to further their music and arts education, make new friends, and pave their way towards their dreams.
Talk about amazing! We should all personally be thanking this organization and it's founder Josiah Bruny for all it does. Music has long been a way to inspire and motivate our young people into making better choices with their lives and Josiah Bruny is a driving force in that. The future of Music Changing Lives is brighter than ever along with the future of the countless number of youth this organization will impact. Keep up the great work, Music Changing Lives!
As someome who loves helping and seeing our youth smile, it makes me very proud to see what MUSIC CHANGING LIVES is doing in the community. Not from a far but actually deep in the trenches where it's needed most. So many young lives have been changed for the better. And it spans beyond music, they give our kids the tools and support to do other things. Exploreing art, film and best of all college. Some kids will be the first in their families to attend college thanks to the support of MUSIC CHANGING LIVES. Where society has said no they say yes lets find a way for you to follow your dreams.
Id personally like to thank this organization and it's founder Josiah Bruny for all it does as well as motivating me in my own life. With so many lives already impacted we have only scrathed the surface. I can't wait to see what the next 10 years holds
After working with MCL for 2 years as an art instructor now, I can confidently and happily say that Music Changing Lives is one of the best nonprofit organizations I've ever known. I've seen first hand working with students in MV community that MCL really cares about their student's futures, happiness, and well-being. It is the most heartwarming thing to feel when your students all are happy to see you again after the week. Every staff member is determined and diligent in making the best enrichment experience they've had. Even with hiccups and challenges here and there, always push through it. Although this is my last year working for MCL, I've enjoyed every minute working with my fellow staff and the kids.
The picture below was during our staff dinner, after our annual MCL Showcase.
Piano Instructor for two elementary sites.
Unlike ordinary after school programs, I got the opportunity to instruct with an instrument and my students stole first, second, and third place at the showcase this year. When I tell my students that our enrichment is over they cry, "Aww" or "Already?" and when I tell them that we still get to see each other til June they cheer, "YES!" By May my students also had the opportunity to tour the University of California school closest to them and now college is part of the dialogue with their family. No this isn't an AVID program. This is Music Changing Lives.
The biggest challenge with working with any nonprofit is the need for more funding. To hire staff to enable more one on one time with students during tutoring and enrichment, to bring in guest speakers to aid in professional development of its staff, to help students visualize what they can aspire to do in the future. And to spread to the rest of the Inland Empire, because music could definitely change lives of the under served if they even had at least one role model from this great program to look up to and to help guide them.
As someone who comes from a community where not a lot of my peers had positive role models growing up, I believe things would be much different for the next generation if they had Music Changing Lives too.
We really do change lives together. This year we took nearly 200 students to UCR - a majority of whom had not even been on a college campus, let alone a UC university. We have been recognizedized by the community, major, and senator for our service. Join our cause. For more information you can go to www.musicchanginglives.org
I love everything about this organization! Our youth matters! And they are our FUTURE! This organization gives them the opportunity to not only do better in life, but to keep hope alive no matter the situation and to strive for the better by any means. This will help us all in the long run. Appreciate everything this org. has to offer. Continue doing your best to help our community succeed. Thank you
Well organized All age programs and event.s.Really CARE ABOUT the Communutyand its people. Very attentive to it client's needs. PERSONNEL and staff VERY courteous, but yet EXTREMELY professional.
I have had the pleasure of working with MCL on and off for the last several years and every experience is top notch. Whenever we have partnered together on local events they bring their A game... Go MCL!
Love this organization! They really help our local children learn about music and truly encourage them to do great things with their lives. I highly recommend this nonprofit.
Music and art are fundamental components of human culture and behavior. Sadly, many students living in the underserved communities we serve have little or no access to the arts due to the reduction in funding. There is a dire need to empower minority and low-income youth through arts education by going beyond an integrated classroom approach. I have watched and supported Music Changing Lives for over 6 years and I have had the honor of seeing some of the children that have been in the program go on to do amazing things with their talents! Lisa Gordon- President of the Inland Empire Homeowners Club
My 9 yr old son attends Music Changing Lives at our local elementary school. As new residents to Riverside County my son was challenged by having to adapt to a new neighborhood, school, friends and new extra curricular activities.
Through Music Changing Lives he quickly made new friends with similar interests in Music and performing arts. The kids had the opportunity to audition and perform on stage at a Showcase Concert. The program also provided loaner instruments and any materials needed.
All students were given medals, Certificates from The Senate & Assembly and had the opportunity at winning individual performance prizes. I am most Thankful for the wonderful field trip to UCR, this provides a positive outlook in keeps the students engaged in furthering their education.
I highly recommend Music changing Lives. The program was FREE and also provided Subway lunch, transportation on Field trip and catered dinner at showcase.
I look forward to my son attending the program next school year and maybe expanding to a Brass Section at Butterfield.
Music changing lives is such an important organization. They are bringing music and art to at-risk youth in the inland empire by partnering with local high school students with mentors from the surrounding universities. After school programs have been shown to help students stay on the right path in life by providing them access to hone their passions, and to build a future worth fighting for. Not only do the youth get access to music and art programs, but this organization also allows college students to give back to their communities, earn volunteer hours, opportunities for jobs, and a chance to change lives.
We hope to see you all 10/28 to celebrate 19 years of keeping Lights On Afterschool for kids with Music Changing Lives. Also please consider supporting our efforts in helping us to expand our efforts by purchasing a #MadeInAmericaBoatRaffle ticket
Working with this organization as a photographer has been amazing....We need more organizations like them promoting individual creativity!
MCL has truly inspired me to begin my own organization with helping children. I love how MCL is touching multiple children lives with music. Children are the future and I applaud MCL for striving to change their lives. As I would volunteer events, you can just see the passionate individuals who've worked hard with their music. MCL is truly blessed and I hope the best for this organization to grow and flourish.
My experience with MCL was nothing short of amazing. They donated so much supplies and time to my first back to school event. Extremely nice, caring, and respectful! I can not wait to do more with them in the future! Thank you so much MCL! You really take care of the community!
This program is an amazing idea and should be mimicked by other groups/organizations. Unfortunately, as a previous employer, I have little faith that this company will succeed. The CEO in charge of the program does not put effort into hiring the right people to work with the children nor do they know their politics enough to follow the law. I think that the idea of the company is fantastic - which is why I worked there - but until the person in charge puts effort into hiring qualified staff to make this a non-profit legit and law abiding, it's not going to succeed.
As a volunteer i have seen Josiah bruny help the troubled youth kids or even the kids who doesn't have parents or their parents cant afford what the kids want.over the years he has done more things for them to help change there lives, he is a blessing from God thank you Josiah for everything you have done for us
Music Changing Lives has been really inspiring and very encouraging to the children of Moreno Valley. Throughout the time that I have been working there, I have seen children grow in their talents. Whether it is through art, dance, and music, the children have a lot of fun and learn within a few months. MCL also provides programs that educate the children in not only with homework help, but also with college information regarding application, eligibility and opportunity options. It's always a pleasure to see the kids feel encouraged to pursue their dreams.
Excellent organization. Founder, Josiah, is doing a great job for the youth in our communities. My daughter participated in the first annual MCL Showcase and it was a great experience for her. The event was well organized and provided an excellent platform for the students of Vista Del Lago High School to showcase their musical/vocal talents. A much needed program in a time when youth are being tempted by gangs, human trafficking, and other things that would otherwise negatively impact/influence them.
Music Changing Lives has been one of the most beneficial and positive impacts on my life. Without having had the opportunity to be an artist in the program back in 2010, I don't believe I would have found a way to continue pursuing my musical career endeavors. This organization has since then expanded to helping youth in other forms of art, such as painting, fashion and film. This program is a truly great program for any youth seekers to find their potential in any dreams they have, but not only that, as well as to better themselves as people. For if an individual can rise to the challenge of following their passions and follow through, that Individual builds character in themselves. Thank you Music Changing Lives for what you have done for me, Franklin Barnes, in my time of need and may many future students continue to find success through your program's tutelage.
It was all a dream! Now we're Changing Lives one note at a time! Thanks to our donors and supporters without you all our mission would be nearly impossible
Music Changing Lives, (MCL) is a phenomenal afterschool program for underserved K-12 students. The program offers arts based enrichment programs to incentivize students to stay in school and pursue their passion and purpose in life. Many students not only discover their hidden talents at MCL, many build confidence and show great improvements in their academic performance. MCL is an amazing program, with dedicated staff who truly go above and beyond to change the lives of the students they serve.
I am so honored to be part of the Board of Directors for this non-profit organization. There is no other like MCL. Although there are other after- school programs throughout the Inland Empire, MCL stands above the rest.
MCL offers the highest quality of music and art enrichment through after-school mentorship programs. It not only provides a safe environment for our at-risk youth to go year round, it engages their interests covering all phases of recording and music. Plus the arts curriculum offers training in creative writing, ceramics, drawing, fashion design and more.
Each student in the program is required to maintain a 2.5 GPA or more which engages them to remain in school. Tutoring is provided if they fall below. School Progress reports are required to allow the program to monitor the student's progress. No student is turned away regardless of their inability to pay. MCL directly attacks the dropout rate and incorporates community volunteers in the process.
The program is not solely dependent on governmental or other one time fundings. MCL is currently housed in the Redlands Community Center and is scheduled in 2011 to provide services in Moreno Valley and Perris.