In a small building in historic Leimert Park, big things are happening in the arts.

The Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center has been helping the lives of thousands of at-risk kids by creating a safe environment that teaches personal responsibility, civic duty and fosters self-esteem with arts training.

Professional musician Fernando Pullum founded the center and continues to lead it as it gives free arts instruction to those ages 5 to 20. It’s Pullum’s way of giving back to the community because, as he says, the arts saved his life when he was a young man.

Click the arrow above to watch "The SoCal Scene" host Melvin Robert's day at the Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center.

Watch The SoCal Scene at 9 p.m. every Wednesday on Spectrum News 1 and on the Spectrum News app.