by Chiara Del Rio-Ascolese
December 12, 2024
At ESHS, there are over 90 campus clubs, opening the door to the student body to numerous opportunities to pursue their passions and hobbies. One particular club, Musicians for Service, not only unifies students who value music, but also grants them the ability to use their passions to make change. With the mission statement “to confront the mental health crisis affecting local foster children and seniors by providing healing through the power of musical experiences”, members of the club strive to create an environment where all have the ability to use music as an emotional outlet.
Not limited to El Segundo grounds, the club also functions as a student-run non-profit organization, called Fiato Foundation. Founded by Caleb Tsai (12), Fiato allows for high school students from all over the South Bay to contribute to the Musicians for Service Club’s goals and overall vision. Over the past year, they have made significant progress, fundraising over $2,000 for their efforts. Fiato has made their efforts in collaboration with another organization, called OliveCrest. Working with the Los Angeles branch, the club/organization has been able to work directly with youth from families in crisis and the foster care system, providing them with music lessons, instruments, and memories for a lifetime. Their dedication is not left unrecognized, either.
On October 2, 2024, The Fiato Foundation was given the honor of being invited to OliveCrest’s annual Power of One Luncheon. Members of the El Segundo Musicians for Service Club came with the intention to provide their musical talents and services. As the doors opened and guests began to arrive, Chiara Del Rio-Ascolese (11) and Mira Kelly Villa (11) welcomed them, offering charismatic service, while Jack Cuzzocrea (12) played a pleasant tune on his guitar. Afterwards, orchestra members Caleb Tsai (12), Morgan Barlow (12), and Nanami Yamashita (12) played beautiful melodies for the 300 present.
As the luncheon progressed, OliveCrest took the time to announce the recipients of multiple awards, for their commitment and passion to support their cause. Fiato Foundation was titled “Foundation of the Year”. Musicians for Service Club demonstrates the fierce passion and drive every Eagle has at El Segundo High School, embodying the spirit of community and creativity that makes a lasting impact.