GRIC Brings Services and Support to Out-of-State Members

September 12, 2025

Emma Hughes

Community Newsperson

LOS ANGELES - The Gila River Indian Community recently visited Community members living in the Los Angeles, California area to assist members with access to essential services, resources, and updates as part of their continued partnership with United American Indian Involvement, Inc. (UAII).

UAII, a non-profit organization, provides a wide range of support and assistance to American Indians and Alaska Natives residing in the Los Angeles area. Their services include physical and behavioral health care, educational support, social services, and cultural programs. They also offer assistance with housing, and employment, among other services.

From Aug. 15-16, GRIC leadership, including Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis, Lt. Gov. Regina Antone, the Community Council, and several departments, hosted informational sessions and individual consultations covering topics such as enrollment, education assistance, cultural programming, and community initiatives. Members were able to ask questions, update their records, and learn more about services available to them, even while living away from the Community.

“We just want to come and just visit and just to renew our bonds of community with all of our relatives, our hajun, with all of our Community members here,” said Gov. Lewis.

The visit also provided an opportunity for Community members to reconnect with one another, share stories, and strengthen cultural ties despite the distance. It was a powerful reminder that belonging to the Community transcends geography—it is about shared identity, family, and a strong sense of community.

“You’re able to sit with any Council person, Governor or myself; There’s just so many people here that you can sit and actually talk and bring your family in,” said Lt. Gov. Antone.

Among the attendees for the outreach was Toni Allison, a Community member who grew up in California. “I just like to enjoy it [the outreach]. Seeing my people from my tribe and just getting information from Gila River,” said Allison. “I'm glad they come over here.” Her brother Waylon also attended the event, “I love interacting with my people and just reconnecting. It has a sense of growth and spirituality,” he said.

Gov. Lewis recognized UAII leadership and staff for their continued support for GRIC members. “They [UAII] provide such important services for our relatives, our Community members here in the L.A. area,” said Gov. Lewis. “The leadership that they’ve shown and especially during some very difficult times.”

Omerlene Thompson, a GRIC member who has been residing in California for over 30 years, was recognized during the outreach event for her longtime commitment to assisting members of the Community and ensuring the partnership remains. Thompson, who works with UAII as social services director, has been instrumental in providing support to Community members in need. Her efforts were also recognized by the City of Los Angeles in 2019 when she was named its American Indian Heritage Month Honoree for her outstanding work with UAII.

Community Council Rep. Terrance B. Evans and Gov. Lewis were honored by Thompson and UAII’s Chief Executive Officer John Reeves III for their unwavering support and dedication to Community members residing in the area, making the community members feel appreciated and respected.

To conclude the visit, Gov. Lewis presented UAII and the local Boys & Girls Club of United American Indian Involvement with the GRIC flag. “On behalf of the Community, we want to make sure that the Community’s flag is being recognized as part of your tribal nations flags, because it’s important – especially to our youth and our elders that go to UAII.”