MECA is a community-based nonprofit organization committed to the healthy development of underserved youth and adults through arts and cultural programming, academic excellence, support services and community building. Vision MECA’s vision is to be a nationally-recognized multicultural community center known for its: * High-quality instruction, performance and demonstration of the performing, visual and cultural arts * Excellent academic and social support services for youth and their families * Leadership in building partnerships that celebrate cultural diversity * Special events and celebrations that reflect our diverse communities Values MECA is a place where students are: * Encouraged to explore their artistic inclinations * Able to express themselves creatively * Given many opportunities for success * Free to make mistakes * Able to gain the self-confidence that comes from achievement * Taught the importance of discipline to achieve artistically and academically * Accepted and valued * Respected and respectful of others * Safe and comfortable MECA is an organization that emphasizes: * Justice * Openness * Equity * Creativity to nurture artistic growth and expression * Individual respect * Caring attitudes * Diversity within community