The MultiCultural Center celebrated its grand opening Feb. 8 with a ceremony and banquet. The facility at 951 Tristar Drive, Webster, is dedicated to inspiring community members to work together while celebrating shared humanity and addressing common challenges.

The MCC focuses on “health, education, helping the needy, and guiding the next generation from every faith, every color and every ethnic background,” MCC President Mohamed Shalaby said in a news release. The center aims to enhance interaction among southeast Houston's diverse cultural and religious groups through social, educational, recreational and service-based activities. Programming includes a food pantry run in association with the Houston Food Bank, a medical clinic for uninsured and underinsured community members, political awareness workshops, art classes and youth programming. 832-481-4004. www.multiculturalcenter.net