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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.

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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.

Learn more about Our 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.

UAII is honored to partner with Indigenous educator Thosh Collins to launch a monthly Indigenous Men’s Healing Circle, a space created for Indigenous men and young men to connect, reflect, heal, and grow together.

Through movement, guided visualization, ceremony, and meaningful conversations, participants will explore identity, wellness, sobriety, relationships, leadership, and cultural responsibility while building strong connections with other Indigenous relatives.

📅 June 28, 2026
⏰ 9 AM - 1 PM
📍 Boys & Girls Club, 250 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Open to ages 15+ and part of a 6-month monthly wellness program.

To RSVP or learn more, email: events@uaii.org

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Open post by uaii_inc with ID 17892845991489781
UAII is honored to partner with Indigenous educator Thosh Collins to launch a monthly Indigenous Men’s Healing Circle, a space created for Indigenous men and young men to connect, reflect, heal, and grow together. Through movement, guided visualization, ceremony, and meaningful conversations, participants will explore identity, wellness, sobriety, relationships, leadership, and cultural responsibility while building strong connections with other Indigenous relatives. 📅 June 28, 2026 ⏰ 9 AM - 1 PM 📍 Boys & Girls Club, 250 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026 Open to ages 15+ and part of a 6-month monthly wellness program. To RSVP or learn more, email: events@uaii.org

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Join UAII Behavioral Health for a fun-filled Family Game Day where families can connect, build community, and enjoy an afternoon of games, snacks, and quality time together. Whether you`re a board game champion or just coming for the fun, there`s something for everyone. We hope to see you there!

📅 June 27, 2026
⏰ 12 PM – 4 PM
📍 UAII Community Center | 1453 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026

To RSVP, email nbishop@uaii.org or call/text (213) 926-3619.

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Open post by uaii_inc with ID 18142823692520033
Join UAII Behavioral Health for a fun-filled Family Game Day where families can connect, build community, and enjoy an afternoon of games, snacks, and quality time together. Whether you're a board game champion or just coming for the fun, there's something for everyone. We hope to see you there! 📅 June 27, 2026 ⏰ 12 PM – 4 PM 📍 UAII Community Center | 1453 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026 To RSVP, email nbishop@uaii.org or call/text (213) 926-3619.

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Join us for The People’s Home: Intertribal Indigenous Pow Wow on Saturday, July 25, 2026 for a day of culture, community, and celebration. From powerful drum groups and vibrant dancers to Native artists, food vendors, and cultural sharing, this gathering honors the traditions that continue to bring our communities together.

We are also honored to welcome an incredible lineup of Head Staff, including respected leaders, dancers, singers, and community members who help guide and uphold the spirit of the Pow Wow throughout the day. Their knowledge, leadership, and dedication play an important role in creating a meaningful experience for all who attend.

📅 July 25, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
✨ Grand Entry at 12:00 PM

📍 California State University, North Field | 5401 Paseo Rancho Castilla, Los Angeles, CA 90032

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Open post by uaii_inc with ID 18001266422931961
Join us for The People’s Home: Intertribal Indigenous Pow Wow on Saturday, July 25, 2026 for a day of culture, community, and celebration. From powerful drum groups and vibrant dancers to Native artists, food vendors, and cultural sharing, this gathering honors the traditions that continue to bring our communities together. We are also honored to welcome an incredible lineup of Head Staff, including respected leaders, dancers, singers, and community members who help guide and uphold the spirit of the Pow Wow throughout the day. Their knowledge, leadership, and dedication play an important role in creating a meaningful experience for all who attend. 📅 July 25, 2026 🕙 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM ✨ Grand Entry at 12:00 PM 📍 California State University, North Field | 5401 Paseo Rancho Castilla, Los Angeles, CA 90032

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Join us for an afternoon of hands-on crafting, community connection, and relaxation as we create beautiful seashell candles inspired by the ocean. Whether you`re looking to try something new, unwind, or spend time with community, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to connect and create!

📅 Tuesday, June 16, 2026
⏰ 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
📍 UAII Community Center
1453 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026

🍪 Snacks and refreshments provided!

Space may be limited, so RSVP today:
📧 nbishop@uaii.org | 📱 Call/Text (213) 926-3619

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Open post by uaii_inc with ID 17890327164542062
Join us for an afternoon of hands-on crafting, community connection, and relaxation as we create beautiful seashell candles inspired by the ocean. Whether you're looking to try something new, unwind, or spend time with community, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to connect and create! 📅 Tuesday, June 16, 2026 ⏰ 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM 📍 UAII Community Center 1453 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026 🍪 Snacks and refreshments provided! Space may be limited, so RSVP today: 📧 nbishop@uaii.org | 📱 Call/Text (213) 926-3619

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Join UAII Membership for FREE and stay connected to programs, services, events, cultural activities, and opportunities that support Native American, Alaska Native, Indigenous, and community members throughout Southern California.

📍 June 16, 2026
⏰ 10 AM – 2 PM
📍 1529 E Palmdale Blvd, Second Floor, Suite 208, Palmdale, CA

RSVP today:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScWc0PhLjOD5BvbPZr2xuhfuSCCc8nGRZDoDI5h9Q6bPiLcJg/viewform

Questions? Contact:
BCollins@uaii.org | 213.259.6639
JCourson@uaii.org | 213.663.0627

Whether you’re new to the community or have been connected for years, we invite you to join the UAII family and help strengthen our Native community together.

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Open post by uaii_inc with ID 18103551389109037
Join UAII Membership for FREE and stay connected to programs, services, events, cultural activities, and opportunities that support Native American, Alaska Native, Indigenous, and community members throughout Southern California. 📍 June 16, 2026 ⏰ 10 AM – 2 PM 📍 1529 E Palmdale Blvd, Second Floor, Suite 208, Palmdale, CA RSVP today: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScWc0PhLjOD5BvbPZr2xuhfuSCCc8nGRZDoDI5h9Q6bPiLcJg/viewform Questions? Contact: BCollins@uaii.org | 213.259.6639 JCourson@uaii.org | 213.663.0627 Whether you’re new to the community or have been connected for years, we invite you to join the UAII family and help strengthen our Native community together.

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UAII and the Boys & Girls Club are excited to offer a free Mommy and Me Self-Regulation Class for children ages 2.5 to 5 years old and their parent or caregiver.

This fun, interactive one hour class will help young children learn age appropriate self regulation skills while providing parents with simple techniques and strategies they can use at home to support their child`s emotional growth and development.

📍 Location: Boys & Girls Club
💲 Cost: Free
👧 Ages: 2.5 to 5 years old
⏰ Duration: 1 hour

Registration is required. Reserve your spot today: https://ow.ly/MaGo50Z7Hzv

We look forward to meeting you and your little one and sharing this special learning experience together! ❤️

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Open post by uaii_inc with ID 18118410598775314
UAII and the Boys & Girls Club are excited to offer a free Mommy and Me Self-Regulation Class for children ages 2.5 to 5 years old and their parent or caregiver. This fun, interactive one hour class will help young children learn age appropriate self regulation skills while providing parents with simple techniques and strategies they can use at home to support their child's emotional growth and development. 📍 Location: Boys & Girls Club 💲 Cost: Free 👧 Ages: 2.5 to 5 years old ⏰ Duration: 1 hour Registration is required. Reserve your spot today: https://ow.ly/MaGo50Z7Hzv We look forward to meeting you and your little one and sharing this special learning experience together! ❤️

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