November 19, 2025 — Families from across the Valley gathered on Saturday for a free community event hosted by the Fresno American Indian Health Project, bringing together classic cars, cultural performances, food, and family activities for a full day of celebration at the organization’s Clovis campus.
The six-hour event at 120 N. Clovis Ave. featured classic cars, hot rods, motorcycles, craft vendors, food booths, and a packed kids zone, but the heart of the day belonged to the steady rhythm of Native American drumming and traditional dance. Families from tribes across the Sierra region, as well as those who now call the Valley home, gathered to enjoy music, cultural demonstrations, and an opportunity to learn more about the work FAIHP continues to do in the community.
Founded in 2007, FAIHP has grown from a small urban health and social service program into a multifaceted agency serving more than 120 tribes each year. Leaders say that growth reflects the Valley’s diverse Native population, shaped by relocation efforts that brought families from across the country to Fresno. Today, the organization focuses on supporting community members “from cradle board through adulthood to our WISE elders,” with services addressing public health, behavioral health, youth programming, substance abuse treatment, diabetes stabilization, suicide prevention, and more.
The event doubled as a showcase for the agency’s expanding medical services, which include primary care for adults and children, chronic disease management, immunizations, women’s health, prevention services, and integrated behavioral health. Staff members were on hand to answer questions about programs such as Native wellness support, housing case management, family advocacy, tutoring, youth leadership groups, and culturally based healing practices.
The celebration also comes during a period of major growth for FAIHP. In recent years the organization was awarded both the Circles of Care Grant and Systems of Care Grant, becoming a key site for COVID-19 vaccine distribution. With the purchase of their building and a commitment to substantial renovations through 2024–2025, FAIHP plans to expand even further, adding primary care, dental, and vision services as part of its goal to double its program size in the next five years.
Staff members said events like Saturday’s are a reminder that FAIHP is more than a health provider; it is a community hub. “We aim to promote a culture of wellness and enhance the quality of life for all Tribal Nations and communities,” the organization notes, emphasizing inclusivity and culturally grounded care.
Saturday’s turnout reflected that mission. From the sound of drums to the shine of custom paint jobs, the Cars, Culture & Fun event offered a celebration of identity and togetherness, and a look at the continued growth of an organization rooted deeply in service.