A Note from Torrence: Music, the Brain, and Our Shared Mission

Dear FA-MLI Family,

I hope this message finds you surrounded by the transformative power of music. I'm reaching out today to share an incredible experience I recently had and to remind you of the vital work we're doing together.

Our Voice at UCLA

Last Tuesday, September 24, I had the honor of participating in the Idea Salon on Music and the Brain at UCLA. The salon was organized by the UCLA-CDU DANA Center for Neuroscience and Society. This center is a collaborative effort between UCLA and Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), two local institutions that are leading the charge in combining cutting-edge research with community-focused healthcare and education.

Imagine this: your boy from New Orleans, standing shoulder to shoulder with neuroscientists and researchers, all of us exploring how music shapes our minds and souls.

As I stood in that room on the campus of UCLA, I couldn't help but think of all of you – our FA-MLI family. Every word I spoke, every insight I shared, was born from the work we've done together over the past 20+ years.

I talked about our "See a Man Be a Man" and "Princess 2 Queen" programs. I shared stories from our "Music Saved My Life" project. And the audience saw what we've known all along – that music isn't just entertainment, it's a powerful force for change and growth.

The Power of Our Work

Being in that room, I was reminded of why we do what we do. Our programs aren't just about teaching music or mentoring youth – they're about reshaping brains, healing hearts, and building stronger communities.

The researchers at UCLA are studying how music affects the brain. We're out here every day, seeing those effects firsthand. We're witnessing lives change, one beat, one melody at a time.

A Call to Action

Now, I'm going to be real with you. This work we do, it's not easy. It takes time, effort, and yes, resources. That's where you come in.

Your support is what keeps our programs running. It's what allows us to reach more young people, to bring more music into more lives.

So I'm asking you today: Can you help us continue this vital work? Your donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference. It helps us prove that what we're doing isn't just theory – it's real, life-changing action.

Donate Now to Support FA-MLI's Programs

With gratitude and soul,

Torrence Brannon-Reese Founder & CEO, FA-MLI, Inc.

P.S. If you'd like to hear more about my experience at UCLA or any of our programs, don't hesitate to reach out. Your involvement and feedback are what keep us growing and evolving.