ARTScorpsLA is a public arts organization that works with low-income Los Angeles communities to transform fallow land into gathering and learning places. The current site, called La Tierra de la Culebra (The Land of the Serpent), the symbol of fertility and growth, was once a vacant 21/2-acre unauthorized garbage dump. Under the direction of artist Tricia Ward, in collaboration with community youth, it is now a cultural art park with a 450-foot serpent fabricated of rubble, stone and piqué tiles. The site is a model of community renewal; a safe haven; a laboratory for learning for disadvantaged and under-served youth. Youth meet daily at La Tierra de la Culebra for 3 hours after school. During the first hour, youth receive school tutoring from members of AmeriCorps and teens in the Culebra project. The 17-and 18-year-old tutors receive honoraria while the younger teens give their time in exchange for field trips and participation in other arts programs. The remaining 2 hours are spent working with local artists on arts and community projects, such as the development of community parks, which include murals; creation of arts spaces; and cultivation of flower and vegetable gardens. Youth use the arts to develop their communication and cooperative learning skills, job preparedness, community awareness and leadership skills.