The Old Sixth Ward Fun n' Food Fest, a citywide celebration of the diverse cultures represented in the First and Sixth Wards, was the impetus for what is now known as MECA. This annual festival originated in September 1977 at St. Joseph Church.

Community leader and music educator Alice Valdez was asked to develop a special program that would build upon the community spirit created by the festival and provide year round fine arts activities and alternatives for children and youth in the community. As a result, and at further recommendation of the Cultural Arts Council of Houston, the festival organization merged with the Alternative Arts Education Program to become St. Joseph Multi-Ethnic Cultural Arts. In 1979, Multi-Cultural Education and Counseling through the Arts incorporated and received 501(c)(3) status.

In 1993, MECA moved from it's original location on the grounds of St. Joseph Church to Dow Elementary School at 1900 Kane Street. Students played an active role in the first phase of the renovation of the school, learning architectural and construction techniques, and applying their knowledge to the actual renovation process. MECA is now beginning an extensive project to renovate and preserve historic Dow School.

• Leadership in Action Award -
  Leadership Houston, Cultural Arts Non-profit Category

• American Institute of Architects -
  Award for Public Art

• 382 Point of Light -
  awarded by President George Bush

• Coming up Taller -
  Arts and Humanities Programs for Children and Youth at Risk - President's Committee on Humanities 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

• 1st Place -
  High School Division Ford and Lincoln/Mercury 4th Annual Mariachi Vargas