The Social and Economic Impact of Music Changing Lives: Shawn Jones of Music Changing Lives Selected for California Partners Project Youth Advisory Committee!
Riverside, CA – November 25, 2024 – The Office of Technology Partnerships at the University of California, Riverside (UCR) is proud to highlight the ongoing impact of Music Changing Lives (MCL), one of the successful clients of our entrepreneurial support programs. Founded by Josiah Bruny, Music Changing Lives provides vital music, arts, and tutoring programs to America’s public schools and community centers, helping at-promise youth build skills, confidence, and creativity. We are thrilled to announce that Shawn Jones, a key participant in MCL’s programs, has been selected to join the California Partners Project’s Youth Advisory Committee, an honor that underscores the organization’s success in empowering youth to take on leadership roles.
The California Partners Project’s Youth Advisory Committee will address critical issues affecting young people across the state, including social media and technology use, mental health, and key elements of child well-being such as social-emotional health, exercise, and nutrition. Shawn’s inclusion in this committee is a testament to her leadership, confidence and commitment to serving her community.
Shawn is a Belizean-American who moved to the U.S. when she was nine. She is entering her third year as a Varsity member of the Cross Country and Track and Field teams. Last school year, she was the number one ranked sophomore in academics and GPA at her school. Shawn has performed in multiple theater productions, is a singer/songwriter in her school district’s traveling band, and is a proud member of Music Changing Lives. She also participates in multiple community volunteer programs, including Power Speaks Louder.
Driving Positive Change Through Music and the Arts
Music Changing Lives is a shining example of how community-based arts programs can have a profound social and economic impact. Operating out of the Redlands Community Center, MCL has empowered youth through initiatives like the Music Academy, which provides comprehensive music education, and the Arts for Academic Achievement program, which integrates arts education into school curricula. These programs foster creativity, academic success, and personal development, while also helping to reduce the risk of delinquent behavior among young people.
One of MCL’s upcoming initiatives, Meeting of the Minds, set to launch in 2025, will further expand the organization’s reach by creating a platform for community organizations to collaborate on social change. Inspired by the pioneering spirit of the Burnout sessions introduced by David Gross and Nipsey Hussle, this program will bring together like-minded organizations to explore collaborations and strategies for addressing pressing issues in the community.
Recognition of Impact and Achievements
Music Changing Lives has received significant recognition for its impact on youth and the community. The organization has been honored with proclamations acknowledging April as Arts, Culture, and Creativity Month through 2029, underscoring the vital role of arts education in fostering innovation and enriching communities. Additional accolades include the "Community Impact Award" from the National Arts Education Association, the "Innovation in Education Award" from the American Association of School Administrators, and the "Excellence in Youth Advocacy Award" from the National Youth Leadership Council.
The impact of these programs is clear: by providing youth with opportunities for creative and academic growth, Music Changing Lives is helping to break cycles of poverty, stimulate economic growth, and create safer, more vibrant communities. The organization’s model emphasizes not only individual success but also community engagement and social responsibility, fostering a new generation of civic leaders.
Looking Ahead
Music Changing Lives continues to expand its reach, with plans to become a nationally recognized program. As Shawn Jones steps into her new leadership role with the California Partners Project, Music Changing Lives looks forward to seeing her continued growth and the positive influence she will have on statewide initiatives. We remain committed to supporting MCL’s mission and are excited to see what the future holds for this dynamic organization and the young people it serves.
For more information about Music Changing Lives and its programs, visit https://www.musicchanginglives.org/
About UC Riverside’s Office of Technology Partnerships
The Office of Technology Partnerships catalyzes the translation of UCR’s world-class research into products and services that benefit society. UCR EPIC SBDC's mentors provide commercialization assistance to startups and emerging businesses, supporting their growth and development. By collaborating with the private sector, supporting entrepreneurial initiatives, and fostering innovation across the campus, the Office is committed to creating a thriving ecosystem that benefits students, faculty, and the community. To learn more about The Office of Tech Partnerships and the EPIC SBDC program, please visit here.
Contact Information
Aileen Luib
Assistant Director of Special Programs and Outreach
Office of Technology Partnerships, University of California, Riverside
Phone: 951-827-8516
Email: aileenl@ucr.edu