Hello everyone.
I’m Malak Ali, an alumna of Key to Change. In June I graduated from Kentwood High School and now I’m a freshman at Central Washington University! I’m writing this letter because I want to share with you my journey at Key to Change and the incredible impact it had on my life.
Before joining Key to Change, I was unsure of myself. I had just started high school and, as a young immigrant from Jordan, I was facing obstacles that seemed impossible to overcome—language and economic barriers, cultural differences, and few opportunities to express myself.
But all that changed, thanks to the support of donors like you.
Being a part of Key to Change taught me accountability, self-discipline, and, most importantly, that I could be successful. Music became my path forward. It wasn’t just about learning an instrument—it was about learning how to believe in myself. The more I practiced, the more accomplished I felt, and that feeling pushed me to work harder in every area of my life.
Through the violin, I made new friends and found a way to express myself. Music made me more responsible; it taught me that I couldn’t show up to lessons unprepared because my preparation affected the whole class. I started to feel proud of my work, showing up on time, and doing my best. And that extended to everything else I did—studying harder at school, reading more, and I started hiking and becoming more physically active.
Key to Change also gave me the chance to help others. I speak Arabic and Spanish, and I’ve been able to support my classmates and their families by translating during lessons and meetings. This experience has made me feel more connected to my peers and allowed me to give back in a unique way.
None of this would have happened without Dr. Morris and the community at Key to Change. Dr. Morris saw potential in me before I did. He would always ask, “How do you know you can’t do something unless you try?” That question stuck with me, and it’s something I carry with me every day. Now I’m in college, which is something I never imagined was possible before joining the program. And I use tools I learned in music class and through the violin all over campus and during lectures.
Because of donors like you, my outlook and life transformed. But there are so many other students who still need that same opportunity. Your support today can make sure more students like me get the chance to succeed.
By giving, you support students in several important ways:
- Provide scholarships for students who can’t afford lessons on their own.
- Expand access by supporting the new campus in Des Moines, bringing more students from across South King County into the program.
- Equip students with high-quality instruments for practicing, rehearsals, and performances.
You can make a difference for students like me. You can ensure they have an opportunity to discover their potential through music, no matter where they come from. I’m proof that with the right support, success is possible.
Please consider making a donation to help the students who will be studying with Key to Change in 2025.
Thank you for believing in me and in the power of music to transform lives.
Warmly,
Malak Ali
Key to Change Alumna
Freshman, Central Washington University
