MECCA diverts materials from the waste stream and brings them into our community’s creative endeavors
We break down the financial barriers to arts participation and work to conserve our natural resources
Earth. Creativity. Community.
MISSION
MECCA diverts materials from the waste stream and brings them into our community’s creative endeavors
VISION
We break down the financial barriers to arts participation and work to conserve our natural resources
VALUES
Earth. Creativity. Community.
HISTORY
Supporting arts in education has been at the core of our founding since 1999. We saw a need to provide educators with materials to further a student’s artistic discovery and creativity. So we gathered all the materials we could and gave them to local educators. Joining our cause were leaders from BRING Recycling and the idea for a materials exchange was born.
In 2001 we became a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with the mission to divert materials from the waste stream and bring them into our community’s creative endeavors. We envisioned a place that furthered arts education, kept materials out of the landfill, and was a center for quality and affordable arts programs.
In September 2003, MECCA began teaching classes to middle and high school students as part of the Network Charter School (NCS). NCS provides opportunities for experiential work projects in local nonprofits and small businesses and stimulates students to take responsibility for their own learning.
Fast forward to today and we are still championing affordable access to art making and creativity, offering educational programs and events, and working to keep usable materials out of the waste stream.
MECCA is recognized both federally and by the state as a 501(c)(3), tax-exempt, nonprofit, charitable and educational organization. MECCA is a business entity that is not owned by a sole proprietor or shareholders but instead is overseen by a Board of Directors and an Executive Director. Every dollar earned by or donated to MECCA goes back into the organization, keeping it a valuable community resource for many years to come.
LEADERSHIP
Heather Campbell, Executive Director
Started working at MECCA in 2013
Favorite parts of working at MECCA? I love seeing teachers loading up on free art supplies and knowing that we are such an important resource to bring creativity into schools and the community. I know that what we do for teachers and their students really matters. I also really love it when I can see creative sparks flying as people explore all the materials we have on hand. I always ask people what they plan to make, people are so happy to share their projects and ideas. It’s inspiring.
What kind of art do you enjoy making? I wouldn’t consider myself to be a fine artist. But I really enjoy working in my garden and arranging flowers. I love to decorate, cook, and make silly things with my kids.
Favorite material that comes to MECCA. Textiles, jewelry, and one of a kind art pieces either from a person’s travels or artist made. We get some really special art pieces. Most of the pieces in my home are from MECCA.
When not at work I love spending time outside and adventuring. When not color coding art supplies you can probably find me on a hiking trail, in the garden, reading a good book under the shade of a tree, or jumping in a river.
Heather Campbell, Executive Director
Started working at MECCA in 2013
Favorite parts of working at MECCA? I love seeing teachers loading up on free art supplies and knowing that we are such an important resource to bring creativity into schools and the community. I know that what we do for teachers and their students really matters. I also really love it when I can see creative sparks flying as people explore all the materials we have on hand. I always ask people what they plan to make, people are so happy to share their projects and ideas. It’s inspiring.
What kind of art do you enjoy making? I wouldn’t consider myself to be a fine artist. But I really enjoy working in my garden and arranging flowers. I love to decorate, cook, and make silly things with my kids.
Favorite material that comes to MECCA. Textiles, jewelry, and one of a kind art pieces either from a person’s travels or artist made. We get some really special art pieces. Most of the pieces in my home are from MECCA.
When not at work I love spending time outside and adventuring. When not color coding art supplies you can probably find me on a hiking trail, in the garden, reading a good book under the shade of a tree, or jumping in a river.