ALL ABOUT KIDS LA

Aak endeavors to build confidence and self-esteem in economically disadvantaged latino and african-american children aged 7-18, many of whom have been victims of trauma. Participants in the program receive instruction from professional performers who teach them how to sing, act, and dance. The instruction culminates in showcase performances twice a year. Aak serves approximately 60 children in each session. A large majority of participants continue with the progam until they graduate from high school. The program meets from 9 a.m. To 4 p.m. On saturdays, aprpoximately 40 weeks per year. In addition, high school aged participants in aak are given the opportunty to participate in a program designed to help them plan their future after graduation from high school.