MECA Mariachi performs "Violin Huapango" at the Miller Outdoor Theater for "Tribute", 2008

Multicultural Education and Counseling through the Arts (MECA) is a community-based, non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the healthy social, cultural, and academic development of at-risk, inner-city youth through education in the arts.

MECA offers classical and ethnic arts education and support services to approximately 1,300 students a year through our In-School, After-School, and Summer Arts Program. MECA reaches another 4000 students through workshops, performances and cultural events. Many of the children living in Houstons inner city are burdened with low academic expectations, little or no social or cultural opportunities in their public schools, limited after school activities, and no recognition of their cultural heritage and traditions. MECA programs help promote self-esteem, discipline, and academic achievement in our community's youth, while instilling a sense of direction and a commitment to cultural diversity. Since 1977, MECAs presence has given youth a positive sense of themselves, their community, and their culture.

In addition to the three main programs, MECA provides a wide variety of other cultural opportunities throughout the year. MECA hosts an annual Concert Series which features a diverse line-up of performing artists, including classical, multicultural, jazz, experimental, and popular forms of music, dance and theater. MECA also hosts short and long-term artistic residencies, holds an annual Day of the Dead Festival, and we have completed several public art projects such as murals and sculptures at schools and parks throughout the city.

Through the success of our students, the breadth of our services and the quality of our programs MECA has been a consistent contributor to the social health and cultural life of Houston for nearly 30 years.

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