Gila River Indian Community Hosts Vital Outreach Event in Los Angeles

May 8, 2026

Emma Hughes

Community Newsperson

LOS ANGELES, CA — In a continued effort to better serve its members, the Gila River Indian Community partnered with the United American Indian Involvement, Inc. (UAII) to organize its annual outreach event for Community members residing in Los Angeles area, on April 24-25.

The two-day event at Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites brought together GRIC leadership, Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis, Lt. Gov. Regina Antone, and Community Council Rep. Kristina Morago. Representatives from several departments, including the Communications & Public Affairs Office, Executive, Enrollment, Tribal Education, Per Capita Office, Urban Members Association, Veteran & Family Services, Tribal Social Services, and more—to provide essential services and community support.

For many attendees, the visit provided a rare and meaningful opportunity to engage face-to-face with leadership and departments without the need to travel to Arizona. It also allowed Community members to reconnect and strengthen ties despite living off the reservation.

Services offered during the outreach included enrollment assistance, tribal IDs, education program information, and updates on housing and social services. Department staff were on-site to answer questions, guide members through paperwork, and provide referrals. In many cases, the visit helped streamline processes that might otherwise require multiple trips or extended wait times.

Gov. Lewis noted that outreach efforts like this are increasingly important as more members live outside the Community. By meeting people where they are, he said, the tribe continues to uphold its commitment to inclusivity and service.

Attendees expressed appreciation for the convenience and care brought directly to them. Many said the outreach not only addressed practical needs but also reinforced a sense of belonging and connection.

Visiting departments and leadership also toured the UAII center and the Boys & Girls Club of United American Indian Involvement, Inc.

Founded in 1974, UAII is a nonprofit organization that provides a wide range of services for American Indians and Alaska Natives living in Southern California. It is the region’s largest comprehensive provider for health and human services.