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About United American Indian Involvement (UAII)

UAII is focused on the holistic treatment of the American Indian and Alaskan Native community in the urban Los Angeles area by providing comprehensive integrated services that focus on all age groups and incorporate our culture and traditions.

Our History

United American Indian Involvement, Inc. (UAII) was founded in 1974 by two Indigenous women, Marian Zucco (Paiute) and Babba Cooper (Lakota), in response to the lasting impact of the Indian Relocation Act of 1956. This federal policy encouraged American Indians to leave reservations for cities like Los Angeles with promises of jobs and housing. However, many who relocated faced racial discrimination, economic hardship, and cultural erasure, often with little to no support.

In the face of these challenges, a strong urban Indian community emerged. People from different tribal nations came together, forming a shared identity known as Inter-tribalism. Recognizing the need for culturally competent services, Zucco and Cooper established UAII to provide healthcare, social support, and cultural programs tailored to the unique experiences of American Indians in Los Angeles.

Today, UAII remains the only Urban Indian health center in Los Angeles, a city with the largest population of American Indians in the nation. UAII provides culturally sensitive healthcare by integrating traditional healing practices with modern medicine, offering services that respect American Indian traditions, languages, and holistic approaches to wellness. From behavioral health programs rooted in cultural identity to community-driven initiatives that promote healing through ceremony, UAII ensures that American Indians receive care that acknowledges their histories, values, and unique healthcare needs.

By addressing the long-term effects of relocation—including health disparities, housing instability, and intergenerational trauma—UAII continues to be a vital resource for the American Indian community, honoring resilience and strengthening the future of urban American Indian people.

Through the eyes of UAII Board Member and elder Keith, who was just a young boy when his family relocated to Los Angeles, The People’s Home explores the lasting impact of the Indian Relocation Act of 1956. As Keith retraces his family’s journey, he revisits the places that shaped their experience, reflecting on the struggles of cultural loss, assimilation, and the resilience of the urban Native community.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to promote and support the physical, behavioral, and spiritual health and well-being of American Indians and Alaska Natives in the urban center by providing high-quality, comprehensive, integrated services for our youth, adults, and elders rooted in Native traditional values and culture. We strive to serve as a bridge to reconnect American Indians and Alaskan Natives to their language, culture, and traditions.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to provide quality physical and behavioral health, education, and social support services that promote healthy lifestyles and individual responsibility in order to strengthen American Indian and Alaskan Native communities, now and for future generations. All services will integrate our native traditions, practices, and beliefs, be culturally sensitive, and be respectful of American Indian and Alaskan Native tribal affiliation.

We are committed to a future where the rich languages, cultures, and traditions of American Indian and Alaskan Native communities are celebrated, preserved, and passed down through generations. We strive to foster an environment that encourages learning and growth, promoting the revitalization of language and culture. Our commitment is to empower American Indians and Alaskan Native communities, ensuring their unique cultural identities thrive in a world that respects diversity and values historical roots. We believe in the power of education, dialogue, and shared experiences to bridge gaps, dispel misconceptions, and foster unity while honoring our distinct cultural landscapes.

Your health journey deserves care that sees the whole you. 🤎 From medical and dental care to behavioral health services, UAII is here to support our Urban Native community with culturally centered care rooted in connection.

Whether you are scheduling your first appointment or looking for ongoing support, we are here for you. Visit uaii.org to learn more about our services, programs, and resources available across Los Angeles.

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Join UAII Workforce and UCI Student Outreach & Retention Center for Workshop #2 of the NARRI x UAII Workshop Series as we break down the financial aid landscape and explore resources that can help support your higher education journey. From scholarships to financial aid opportunities, this workshop is designed to help expand awareness and make the process feel a little less overwhelming.

📅 May 15, 2026
⏰ 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
💻 Zoom

Questions? Contact William Jackson at wjackson@uaii.org or scan the QR code to register!

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UAII has partnered with nationally recognized Indigenous educator and facilitator Thosh Collins to launch a monthly Indigenous Men’s Healing Circle focused on identity, wellness, leadership, sobriety, cultural responsibility, and connection. Through guided discussions, movement, ceremony, and reflection, participants will build community while supporting personal growth and healing.

🗓️ May 24
⏰ 9AM–1PM
📍 Boys & Girls Club
250 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Open to Indigenous men ages 15+
6-month program • Monthly circles

RSVP: events@uaii.org

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Hello AV Native American, Indigenous, and Alaska Native families! 🌿 

Join us for our Open Membership Enrollment Event at UAII—learn about valuable services, get support with enrollment, and connect with the community. Membership is required to access resources, and our team will be there every step of the way. We encourage families to schedule an appointment ahead of time by scanning the QR code on the flyer.

🗓️ June 16
⏰ 10AM–2PM
📍 UAII Antelope Valley Office
1529 E. Palmdale Blvd #208
Palmdale, CA 93550

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Today, we honor the many journeys of motherhood in our communities. The women grieving, healing, remembering, nurturing, rebuilding, protecting, and carrying generations forward with resilience and care. To every woman carrying both joy and heaviness this Mother’s Day, we see you. You are the heartbeat of our communities. 

Happy Mothers Day 🧡

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Join us for a special field trip just for Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, and Indigenous seniors to United American Indian Involvement in Los Angeles! 🌟 Connect with community, celebrate culture, and enjoy a day filled with fellowship and fun. 

🚌 Transportation provided
🍽️ Light breakfast, lunch & snacks included
🏛️ Guided tour + senior program gathering
📍 Departing from Palmdale Childcare & Resource Center at 7:00 AM
⏰ Returning around 4:00 PM

Spots are limited—please scan the QR code or visit this link to register: https://ow.ly/B10V50YW0X4

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Join the NARRI x UAII Workshop Series for an interactive conversation on outlining your college path, comparing higher education options, and identifying goals that align with your future. Whether you’re exploring community college, university, vocational programs, or other pathways, this workshop is here to help you navigate your next steps with confidence.

📅 May 8, 2026
⏰ 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
💻 Zoom

For more information, contact William Jackson at wjackson@uaii.org.

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