Merced County Arts Council, Inc.

The Merced County Arts Council’s mission is to inspire and nurture the creative energies of people in Merced County by promoting the arts and providing cultural and educational opportunities. The United Way of Merced County presently provides funding for MCAC’s Artree program. This program provides Merced County’s youth with educational and therapeutic experiences in the performing, visual and literary arts through workshops, demonstrations, performances, festivals and teacher in-services.

The Artree program serves two purposes in Merced County. The first is its role as a resource for arts experienced focusing on the process of creativity by utilizing visual, literary and performing arts discipline as the vehicles of expression. The second purpose is providing support and enhancement in other curriculum areas such as math, science, social science and reading.

Artree is based on a commitment to the philosophy that art is a vital component of education and be available to all youth, regardless of race, language, economic conditions and physical or mental capabilities. Involvement in the arts is fundamental to the intellectual, social and physical development of every child. The arts inspire initiative, creative behavior and unite individuals in a common language.

Due to the therapeutic nature of the arts and the benefits that can provide individuals with enhanced self-esteem, personal growth and healing, Artree’s presence in special needs environments, including the County Court Schools and special education programs, is instrumental in the rehabilitative and developmental goals of these programs. To learn more about Artree, call: 388-1090.

Merced County Arts Council, Inc.
645 W. Main Street
Merced, CA 95340
209-388-1090 (voice)
209-388-1106
director@artsmerced.org