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 5,000 students a year through our In-School, After-School and Summer Arts Program. Many of the children living in Houston’s 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, MECA’s presence has given youth a positive sense of themselves, their community, and their culture.