ACAM emphasizes positive development of youth in the Pico Union of downtown Los Angeles by exploring and developing their creative abilities through the study, practice, and performance of the arts, dance, music and theatre, in a safe environment. An El Sistema inspired organization, ACAM incorporates group teaching and peer-to-peer learning, an emphasis on ensemble and performance, and a spirit of “giving back” to the community. ACAM provides after-school and summer instruction in group classes, private lessons and ensembles throughout the year at no charge to students by teaching artists who have extensive training in their area of expertise. Classes are offered tuition-free throughout the year at Angelica Lutheran Church and Hope Street Family Center. Ninety classes are delivered weekly to youth ages 4-17 years of age. Students have frequent opportunities to perform, and progress is evaluated during 19 public concerts each year and in juries twice a year. Parents and students are surveyed twice a year to assess the impact of the program.