San Diego Young Artists Music Academy

Specialties

San Diego Young Artists Music Academy is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit that offers a variety of after-​school and summer programs to every adolescent in need of our program, no matter their socioeconomic, racial, religious or cultural background. Our programs include; Performing Arts (choir, vocal coaching, drums, percussion, piano, guitar, music production, and different dance styles), Youth Education (academic tutoring in all general courses and college prep) and Career Development (administrative, inventory/​stock clerk, food service and computer technology).

History

Established in 1989.

While YAMA serves students from Southeast San Diego, a community that has been hard hit by home foreclosures, unemployment, reduced social services, and low societal morale. Southeast San Diego is a highly diverse community of primarily low-​income, working-​class families. The area also has a crime rate that is significantly higher than most other areas in San Diego. Many young people become involved in gangs, drugs and other destructive behaviors. YAMA’s life changing programs and nurturing atmosphere offers these youth a powerful creative alternative and an opportunity to build a more positive future.

Meet the Business Owner

George H.

Business Owner

In 1998, my wife and I decided it was time to do something that would make our community a better and more nurturing environment. We knew the only way to make a difference and promote change was to stop the habits before they begin. I retired from a career in computer engineering and, with my wife Robbie, founded the non-​profit San Diego Young Artists Music Academy, an after-​school and summer programs for disadvantaged kids.