Kids are magic. They have the ability to see life the way it was meant to be. In their world there is no war. There is no hate. The Children of the World Project is more than children helping to save their starving brothers and sisters. It’s about on our most important natural resources–hope. It is the hope that all of us will once again see the world through the eyes of the child we once were. Listen and believe. We are the world.
~Sonny Melendrez, Founder, Children of the World Project
How It Began:
One morning in March 1985 I woke up to the voice of a child on my clock radio singing the words to the Michael Jackson – Lionel Ritchie anthem to end world famine, We Are The World. My first thought was, “What a great idea – children singing this powerful lyric.” Then I realized that what I heard was actually Michael Jackson singing his part of the song.
I shared the idea with my listeners on KMGG Radio in Los Angeles and immediately received hundreds of calls from volunteers and children wanting to be a part of what we called, “The Children of the World Project.”
Two months later, after auditioning over 1500 talented youngsters, we entered the Westlake Studios in Los Angeles to record with Grammy winning producer, George Duke, who had graciously accepted my invitation to join the project.
A video (watch below) was also made and a week later we included the hundreds of children who had auditioned in the closing scene, shot at LA’s Griffith Park.
Proceeds went to USA For Africa and the record received a Grammy nomination.
Listen to the full story: SonnyRadio.com/children-of-the-world
Sonny Melendrez, an award-winning TEDx motivational speaker, media consultant, and inspirational figure, has dedicated over 20 years to uplifting individuals and organizations.
Renowned for his energetic keynote speeches and workshops, Melendrez focuses on empowering associations, educational institutions, and businesses to achieve their fullest potential. His engaging presentations are known for their humor and interactive elements, aiming to inspire transformative changes in careers and lives.
Melendrez's accolades include being twice named Billboard Magazine's "National Radio Personality of the Year" and induction into the Texas Radio Hall Of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as one of the top 100 radio personalities. His broadcasting career spanned leading radio stations across Los Angeles and San Antonio, where he not only hosted popular shows but also significantly contributed to public service.
Beyond radio, Melendrez has excelled as a TV host, actor, motivational speaker, and voice artist, endorsing brands like Disney and Pepsi, and engaging audiences at high-profile events, including the White House Hispanic Heritage Awards. He's passionately contributed to social causes, leading initiatives like The Children of the World Project and actively supporting numerous charities, raising over $100 million for non-profits.
Melendrez's efforts have earned him commendations from President Reagan, a Grammy nomination, and recognition as a socially responsible entrepreneur.
His book, "The Art of Living with Enthusiasm!", encapsulates his philosophy on the transformative power of positivity and enthusiasm in personal and professional realms.
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