The collection includes papers, photographs, and audio materials from the Los Angeles Poverty Department (LAPD), a LA-based theatre and arts group from the time of the organization's founding in 1985 until about 2000. The collection is organized into two series: Papers and Photographs and Audio (Cassettes and Reels).

The Papers and Photographs contains administrative documents, grant applications and proposals, programs, promotional materials, announcements and publicity, production notes and pictures from a several performances and productions. The Audio series includes cassette tapes and reels with performances, interviews, and panel discussions, as well as unidentified recordings.