The Upper Midwest American Indian Center (UMAIC) was established in 1937 to support American Indian people in the urban area. In 1961 UMAIC was incorporated as a non-profit agency through the state of Minnesota. The organization is dedicated to supporting American Indian people from all tribes in connecting with each other, gaining educational and economic advancement, and practicing their American Indian culture.

The Upper Midwest American Indian Center (UMAIC) was among the first urban Native American, nonprofit social service agencies in the State of Minnesota. UMAIC began in 1937 as an informal organization of Native American people who were moving to Minneapolis for employment. At that time the native population was less than 1,500 in Minneapolis. Many of the families experienced social isolation, problems adjusting to urban life and limited opportunities to practice their culture.

In 1961, the founders of the organization established a Board of Directors and incorporated as the Upper Midwest American Indian Center and its’ mission statement was, “To promote the social, cultural, educational and economic advancement of Native people through self-determination and human service programs.”

Today, the Interim Director, Ronald Buckanaga, is carrying out UMAIC’s mission in providing assistance our elders, children and community members. Mr. Buckanaga is a former UMAIC board member, holds a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Minnesota and has 21 years of experience of running an Alternative School and the Four Directions Charter School. His goal is to help Native youth in education, social service programs for Native families and cultural experiences for the community.