In the heart of the Twin Cities, the United Cambodian Association of Minnesota (UCAM) stands as a beacon of hope, resilience and community for Cambodian older adults. As the only full-service organization in the state dedicated to supporting this population, UCAM provides a lifeline for nearly 200 individuals, offering a wide range of services that enhance quality of life, promote independence, and foster deep social connections.
UCAM’s mission is simple yet profound: to help every older adult they serve live a happy and healthy life. From the moment participants arrive at the center in the morning to the time they return home in the early afternoon, they are immersed in a vibrant, supportive environment that feels more like a community than a service provider.
A typical day at UCAM begins with transportation to the center, followed by breakfast and a variety of engaging morning activities. Participants enjoy socializing, sharing stories, and participating in exercises like outdoor walks, crossword puzzles and English classes.
Lunch is catered by Kolap Restaurant in Saint Paul, offering familiar and comforting Cambodian cuisine. The day wraps up with dancing, singing, and transportation home.
Fridays are reserved for special events, adding variety and excitement to the weekly routine. Cultural celebrations and other events are designed to enrich the lives of participants and strengthen community bonds.
UCAM’s 12 dedicated staff members go above and beyond to meet the needs of their community. They provide essential services such as grocery shopping, translation, transportation to medical appointments and even free haircuts to help participants save money. On any given day, staff may read and translate mail for up to 50 individuals, coordinate transportation schedules or assist with housing searches for those seeking to live independently—a growing trend among Cambodian older adults.
“There is a culture clash between the older and younger generations,” explains Yorn Yan, Executive Director of UCAM. “In Cambodian culture, older adults are treated with great respect and hold power. In American culture, they are often at the bottom of the pyramid, not the top. This can lead to hopelessness. Our job is to give them more hope.”
Social connection is at the heart of UCAM’s work. “We provide a place for social connectedness,” says Sapaula Mao, UCAM Adult Day Center Director. “When participants are at home, their children often speak English. Here, they can speak Khmer, share stories and support each other in being happy and healthy.”
Many of the older adults UCAM serves are survivors of the Khmer Rouge genocide. They carry with them deep trauma, but also incredible resilience. “They have been through a lot; they are resilient people who know how to survive,” says Yorn.
UCAM’s approach is deeply personal. Staff members know each participant’s story, family and health history. “I have to memorize everyone’s blood pressure from last month,” Yorn shares. This level of care builds trust that creates confidence and comfort among participants.
Despite their success, UCAM knows there is more to be done. “We love what we are doing, but it’s not enough,” Yorn says. “We need more services for this community.”
With compassion, cultural understanding, and unwavering dedication, UCAM continues to be a pillar of strength for Cambodian older adults in Minnesota—helping them not just survive but thrive.
