Our Roots
fostering a healthier and more equitable future for all.
Our Roots
UMMA is committed to improving the well-being of underserved communities by offering high-quality healthcare to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
Rooted in the Islamic values that inspired our founders, our work reflects principles cherished by all: service, compassion, human dignity, social justice, and ethical conduct. These values guide everything we do, fostering a healthier and more equitable future for all.
1992
Students at UCLA and Charles R. Drew University established the University Muslim Medical Association (UMMA). In the wake of the civil unrest of 1992, the students decide to open a free clinic with university support.
1994
As construction continues at the clinic, the students collect donated equipment and with the help of Councilwoman Waters, raise more than $1.3 million in funds.
1996
On September 24, 1996, we saw our first patient. Volunteers of all faiths come together to serve, and we incorporate as a non-profit one year later with our first Board of Directors.
2008
We become the first Muslim American organization designated as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). A special status awarded by the U.S. government.
2009
We are recognized by President Barack Obama at a White House reception. UMMA Clinic leaders testify before the US Congress on Health Reform.
2013
We opened the Fremont Wellness Center and Community Garden at John C. Fremont High School in South Los Angeles.
2014
We opened the Fremont Wellness Center and Community Garden at John C. Fremont High School in South Los Angeles.
2019
We begin construction on three new expansion projects: a Dental Clinic at Fremont High School, Behavioral Health wing at the Florence Clinic, and a new clinic location on Vermont Avenue.
2020
Our staff address the COVID-19 crisis in South Los Angeles. Conducting more than 20,000 patient visits and distributing more than 8,000 emergency food packages to our community.
2020
We reach 100,000 unique patient visits.
2021
We become one of the largest vaccination sites in South Los Angeles, administering more than 13,806 vaccinations to our community members.
2021
We complete construction of the Dental Clinic at John C. Fremont High School.
2024
After 5 years in construction, UMMA opens our 5th location in the the South Los Angeles community.
2024
The Jordan Wellness Center at Jordan High School in Watts officially reopened in August 2024 after being closed during the pandemic. This center, run by UMMA, serves as a critical healthcare hub for both students and the surrounding community, offering services. The reopening is seen as a vital resource in addressing the healthcare gap in the area, providing much-needed services to an underserved population.
