Give foster youth the childhoods they deserve.
The Academy Project offers free after-school programs and summer camps that equip foster children with the education, skills, and support they need to build brighter futures.
750+
Youth Impacted
10+
Years of Service
$0.00
Cost to Families
Why We Are Here
More Than a Program
A Community of Support
The Academy Project (TAP) has been supporting foster youth and underserved children in Los Angeles for over ten years. We promote well-being and growth by collaborating with partner organizations to provide art enrichment, educational support, and essential services for foster youth.
Los Angeles County has over 22,000 children in foster care. The need is great and TAP aims to build a community where foster youth are empowered with the resources, skills, and guidance needed to become thriving, independent adults.
"At the heart of our mission is an unwavering belief in the limitless potential of every child and youth."
Lauren Costa
Executive Director & Founder
What Guides Us
Our Core Values
Compassion
Every child deserves care and belonging.
Community
Building strong networks of support.
Empowerment
Unlocking limitless potential.
Integrity
Honest, transparent, accountable.
Inclusivity
Welcoming every background.
What we Offer
Our Programs
Free, high-quality out-of-school programs designed to provide
a holistic support system to foster youth and their families.
2:30 - 5:30pm | Mon-Fri
Program
After-School
The Co-Op
The Co-Op provides foster youth with a safe, nurturing environment to learn, grow, and build authentic relationships. Through partnerships with schools and partner organizations, we offer holistic support that addresses academic, emotional, and creative needs.
Academic tutoring & homework help
Art & music enrichment
Social skills development
Mentorship & life coaching
College & career readiness
Pico Union, Los Angeles, CA
Program
Summer Camp
Camp Xavier
The Co-Op provides foster youth with a safe, nurturing environment to learn, grow, and build authentic relationships. Through partnerships with schools and education-focused organizations, we offer holistic support that addresses academic, emotional, and creative needs.
STEM exploration activities
Outdoor & recreational adventures
Leadership development
Creative arts workshops
Team building & community
Pico Union, Los Angeles, CA
Full-Day | One week in July
Voices of Impact
Stories That Inspire
My children are having such a great time at the camp. They really look forward every day to be there…. They have gone to other camps in the past, yet none have made such an impact on them…. Thank you so much for taking care of our children. They are having such a great time that it makes me want to relive my childhood again.”
– Carlos S., foster/adoptive parent
You're In Good Company
Sponsors & Partners
We're grateful for the organizations that make our mission possible.
Interested in partnering with us? Get in touch ».