Mika raises ‘Express’ donations

Elia Powers

In hopes of raising $40,000 toward the continued operation of an

after-school arts program, Costa Mesa-based Mika Community

Development Corp. planned to hold a fundraiser Tuesday evening at the

home of one of its members.

Donations were earmarked for “Express Yourself,” a 10-week program

held in the fall and spring that serves underprivileged children 7

through 17, primarily from the Westside of Costa Mesa.

“The goal is to allow the participants the chance to realize their

creative potential,” said Melisa Jennings, Mika’s youth arts

director. “It’s a good way for them to spend their time.”

Art programs are held at the Costa Mesa Women’s Club on Monday and

Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The group also meets on

Friday afternoons at Harbor Christian Fellowship and holds a

five-week summer session.

Founded last June, “Express Yourself” introduces 50 students to a

variety of artistic media -- including painting, drawing,

photography, culinary arts and music.

At Tuesday’s fundraiser, Jennings and other organization members

intended to explain to attendees the mission behind Mika, a nonprofit

Christian organization that offers arts programs for youth throughout

the region.

Jennings said a goal of “Express Yourself” is to allow the young

participants to become “agents of change” in their neighborhood.

For more information or to make a donation, call (949) 645-0075.