Author: Gao Vang
As National Health Center Week (August 2–8) celebrates the vital role community health centers play across the country, the Community-University Health Care Center (CUHCC) is celebrating 60 years of caring for individuals and families in the Phillips neighborhood of south Minneapolis.
Founded in 1966 by the University of Minnesota, CUHCC was Minnesota's first community health center and remains the state's longest-running. For six decades, the clinic has served as a trusted healthcare home for people of all ages and income levels, ensuring that high-quality care is available to everyone who comes through its doors. Throughout its history, CUHCC has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the community while remaining steadfast in its mission to improve health, reduce barriers to care and educate the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Today, CUHCC provides integrated medical, dental, mental health and social support services, offering care that recognizes the whole person. CUHCC also serves as a clinical training site for students and residents across the health sciences, preparing future providers to care for Minnesota's diverse communities.
As CUHCC celebrates its 60th anniversary, it is also looking toward the future. Earlier this year, University and community leaders broke ground on a new state-of-the-art facility that will more than double the size of the current clinic. The expanded building will increase access to care, create additional exam rooms, introduce new services such as mammography, physical therapy and an on-site pharmacy, and enhance training opportunities for health professions learners—all while allowing the clinic to remain open throughout construction.
“As we celebrate 60 years, we honor the roots of care that brought us here, the resilience that sustains us, and the lives we touch today—all while building the healthier, brighter tomorrow every community deserves. This milestone is a testament to everyone who stands with us in pursuit of health equity, accessible care, education, and thriving communities,” said Roli Dwivedi, MD, CEO for CUHCC.
As National Health Center Week recognizes community health centers nationwide, CUHCC's 60-year history is a reminder that accessible healthcare strengthens individuals, families and communities. By expanding services, educating future health professionals and meeting the needs of its neighbors, CUHCC continues to improve the health and wellbeing of Minnesotans.