With support from the California Arts Council, White Hall Arts Academy Foundation will expand access to year-round, culturally responsive arts education and workforce development programs for youth and young adults in South Los Angeles. Grant funds will support instructor compensation, curriculum materials, and community outreach across our core initiatives.
Soundworks is a workforce development program that trains justice-affected and transitional aged foster youth ages 18–24 in audio engineering, lighting design, and video production. Participants gain technical skills and hands-on experience in live entertainment, positioning them for apprenticeships and careers in the creative economy.
Saturday Sessions combines the HeARTbeats and Project MuszEd programs to deliver inclusive arts education year-round. HeARTbeats serves ages 4–12 with group classes in drums, violin, guitar, piano, singing, and dance. Project MuszEd offers conservatory-level instruction in music production, acting, and songwriting for teens and young adults. Each cycle serves over 60 students and culminates in a showcase to foster confidence and community pride. Funding supports class materials, instructors, and outreach. Classes run in 4- and 8-week sessions.
Private Music Lesson Scholarships provide over $20,000 annually in free lessons for children in underserved communities and youth impacted by foster care.
H.O.P.E. Choir and Ensemble are intergenerational performing groups that empower participants to engage in community through music. These groups uplift audiences with performances for organizations like United Airlines, LA Metro, CASA-LA, and the Taste of Soul Festival.
JAMM-U brings music instruction to youth with limited access to instruments. Students receive training in guitar, vocals, and production at partner sites across South Los Angeles, including Crete Academy, Watts Learning Center, and Birdie V. Lee Bright Elementary School.
Rock The Block is our signature annual wellness festival, drawing over 3,000 attendees to celebrate music, community empowerment, and wellbeing. With live performances, panel discussions, health services, youth activities, and clean energy showcases, the event reflects our mission to strengthen South LA through the arts.

