Tucson Indian Center History

The Tucson area has long been the traditional site for Indian settlements. From the Archaic and Hohokam Indians, to the Tohono O’odham and Yaqui, the waters of the Santa Cruz River and the surrounding fertile land attracted desert dwelling tribes.

Shortly after World War II, local Indians felt there was a need for an organization of their own to provide services for health, housing, education, counseling, and recreation. To pursue this goal a Native American Club was organized in 1957. In 1963, the Club became incorporated as the American Indian Association, doing business as the Tucson Indian Center.

For decades, the Center has offered youth and elderly programs, job services, adult and youth education programs, cultural activities, and emergency assistance.

Tucson Indian Center
Declaration of Identity

I. Core Values Statement

Integrity: the state, quality or condition of being honest, ethical, and entirely whole

Accountability: the state, quality or condition of being answerable, explainable, and credible

Cultural Identity: socially transmitted behavior patterns, arts, beliefs, institutions, and all other products of human work and thought characteristics of the Indian Community

Family & Community: group of persons sharing a common ancestry & group living in same locality having common interests


II. Vision Statement
To have a prosperous, healthy, unified, and politically strong urban American Indian Community that promotes and preserves our cultures


III. Mission Statement
To serve the urban American Indian Community and others by:
Providing culturally appropriate social, economic, education, housing, wellness, and advocacy services. Raising awareness and recognizing the unique needs and contributions of American Indians; and building support to address these needs and contributions.


IV. Strategic Goals

  • Increase the Center’s visibility and recognition through the implementation of the Marketing Plan
  • Increase the Center’s operating budget (funding/revenues) through the implementation of the Development Plan
  • Increase the Center’s effectiveness and efficiency through the implementation of the Staff & Board Development Plan
  • Increase the Center’s collaborations with all stakeholders through the promotion of Indian Culture