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(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— REDLANDS, CA—- Music Changing Lives and First 5 San Bernardino celebrated their 20th anniversaries together this past Saturday in Redlands. The celebration highlighted the ongoing work their organizations provide to ensure children and youth have access to quality programs throughout the Inland Empire and beyond.
More than hundred supporters, donors, dignitaries and beneficiaries of both agencies attended the celebration and awards ceremony, held at the Redlands Community Center where Music Changing Lives operates year-round music and art programs for students.
The event showcased incredible musical performances from current and former students within the Music Changing Lives program. The talent featured included hip-hop duet, “Goddess Girls” who performed their hit song “Storm,” and had the entire audience dancing and singing along. Another amazing artist was nine-year-old “Pedro”, who captivated the entire room as he sang a Spanish mariachi song. Other featured artists included “Jazui,” who sings and moves like a young Selena; “It’s Klutch,” a hip-hop dance group; “Mark Valdez,” the best beat boxer in the Inland Empire; and “Dana” who played a beautiful song on the keyboard.
The celebration included a keynote presentation by Josiah Bruny, CEO and Founder of Music Changing Lives, (MCL) who shared the history of his agency, the importance of 
afterschool programs, and what the future holds for the amazing organization. He also honored his board, staff, donors and volunteers with beautiful awards for their dedication to changing lives.
Among other awards given out at the celebration, Tyler Ferrari of Senator Mike Morrell’s office presented Music Changing Lives and First 5 San Bernardino with certificates of recognition for their work in the community over the last twenty years.
A surprise award and painting was presented to Karen E. Scott, Executive Director of First 5 of San Bernardino from Music Changing Lives for their partnership and in recognition of First 5’s twenty-year milestone. The beautiful painting was created by an artist in MCL’s programs.
The two agencies were brought together through the Inland Empire Community Collaborative, (IECC) who works facilitates non-profits to work together to strengthen their organizations and improve outcomes for individuals and communities throughout San Bernardino County. First 5 San Bernardino is a fiscal sponsor for the IECC and Music Changing Lives is one of the non-profit agencies that participates in the collaborative. It only made sense for the two agencies to celebrate their anniversaries together.
Guest speakers from the community included Councilwoman Toni Momberger and Councilwoman Elect, Denise Davis from the City of Redlands. Both Councilwoman have supported Music Changing Lives and First 5 over the years and shared their history with the agencies and why they believe both programs are so vital to the community. Several other elected officials were also in attendance to show their support.
MCL and First 5 have amazing track records for truly making a difference in the lives of children in need. Both agencies are extremely proud of their twenty-year milestone and look forward to serving children and youth in our community for years to come.
If you would like more information about MCL or First 5, visit them on the web at www.MusicChangingLives.org and www.first5sanbernardino.org.
