While often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when a small, outnumbered Mexican army achieved an unlikely victory over French forces. It’s a story of resilience, courage, and unity — qualities UBGA embodies every day in their mission to restore dignity, build trust, and advance a vision of a healthier, more equitable Mexico.

In a world where access to healthcare remains inequitable — with rural and underserved communities often carrying the greatest burdens — UBGA’s mobile healthcare units travel the miles most systems don’t, delivering essential services to those too often overlooked. But for UBGA, healthcare is just the beginning.

A Mission Rooted in Love for Mexico

For UBGA, love for Mexico isn’t a tagline — it’s the heartbeat of everything they do. From the moment the organization was founded, that deep affection for their country and its people shaped their mission.

“Love for Mexico is our most substantial value,” UBGA shared. “This feeling moves us to give our best to all the people we serve in all the communities in need. We come from a very resilient society… and we’re proud of what and how we are when we help others.”

Their work is driven by a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility. UBGA believes that every person deserves health, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive — and they’re determined to make those rights a reality, one community at a time.

Honoring Cinco de Mayo Through Service

Cinco de Mayo holds special meaning for UBGA — not only because it marks a significant moment in Mexican history, but because it embodies the spirit of resilience and unity the organization champions daily.

The holiday commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when outnumbered Mexican forces defeated the French army in a remarkable stand of courage and defiance. Though often misunderstood outside Mexico, especially in the U.S., Cinco de Mayo is a source of deep regional pride in Puebla and a reminder of the power of community in the face of adversity.

Based in Puebla, where that historic battle took place, UBGA doesn’t mark this day with parades or speeches. They honor it by doing what they do best: serving.

“We often use this day as an opportunity to organize special medical outreach events in underserved areas, reminding our teams and patients that true patriotism means showing up, caring deeply, and acting with purpose.”

It’s a day to reflect, reaffirm their mission, and remember that, as UBGA beautifully puts it, “Together, we can still win important battles today — especially those regarding health and human dignity.”

Delivering Care, Dignity, and Connection Across Mexico

UBGA’s mobile healthcare programs are built to reach those who might never otherwise see a doctor. Their mobile units crisscross Mexico, providing general consultations, women’s health screenings, mammograms, preventive care, and health education.

But what truly makes a difference is the heart behind the work. More than one million patients have been served through UBGA’s mobile programs — but numbers only tell part of the story. It’s the individual lives changed, like that of Isidro Córdoba Sánchez, that truly capture the organization’s impact.

Stories That Stay With You: Isidro’s Journey
At just 21, Isidro Córdoba Sánchez’s life was altered by a tragic car accident that left him paralyzed. The years that followed were marked by pain, loss, and profound personal struggle. But amid that darkness, UBGA entered his life.

For over three years, UBGA has provided Isidro with essential medical care, medications, and steadfast emotional support — always without expecting anything in return.

“They’ve helped not only me but so many others across Mexico,” Isidro says. “Their help is genuine. That’s rare.”

His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of compassion and connection.

Beyond Healthcare: Building Opportunity and Hope

UBGA knows that health is more than the absence of illness — it’s the presence of dignity, opportunity, and the ability to shape one’s future. That’s why their mission extends beyond medical care to include job training and self-employment programs, especially for women and youth in vulnerable communities.

By addressing the social determinants of health — poverty, education, and employment — UBGA is not only treating illness but transforming lives from the inside out.

The Power of Collaboration

UBGA’s commitment to partnership has been a cornerstone of their growth. Through their membership with the Mobile Healthcare Association, they’ve gained access to a global network of expertise, resources, and shared wisdom.

“Mobile Healthcare Association has reminded us that we are not alone,” UBGA reflected. “A growing, passionate global community is committed to mobile healthcare, and being part of that community gives us strength, perspective, and encouragement.”

This spirit of collaboration extends to their hopes for the future as well — including the idea of building stronger connections among mobile healthcare programs across Mexico to create a more unified, coordinated impact.

Looking Ahead: New Projects and Open Invitations

As they continue to serve, UBGA is expanding its preventive health programs, strengthening partnerships with local organizations, and working toward a vision of sustainable, community-driven healthcare solutions.

They invite individuals and organizations to join them — through donations, volunteering, partnerships, or simply by helping spread the word. Because behind every UBGA mobile unit is a heartbeat of compassion, and behind every patient, a story worth healing.

Final Thoughts

UBGA reminds us that healthcare isn’t just about medicine — it’s about presence, empathy, and justice. On this Cinco de Mayo, we celebrate not only the courage of the past but the bravery of those like UBGA, who continue to fight for a healthier, more dignified Mexico today.

If you’d like to learn more or get involved, visit https://ubga.org.mx/ or connect with them through the Mobile Healthcare Association

Individuals and organizations can support UBGA’s mission to provide healthcare and development services to vulnerable communities in Mexico through several avenues:

1. Donations: Financial contributions help sustain and expand our programs. Donations can be made through our website.  
2. Volunteering: We welcome volunteers with diverse skills to participate in our initiatives. Opportunities range from medical assistance to community outreach and education.
3. Partnerships: Organizations can collaborate with us to amplify impact. Our ‘Joining Efforts’ program focuses on building alliances to strengthen social impact.  
4. Spreading Awareness: Sharing information about UBGA’s work helps raise awareness and support for our mission.

 View the Full Q&A

Want to hear directly from the UBGA team? We sent them a series of questions about their mission, their connection to Cinco de Mayo, and what drives their work — and they generously shared thoughtful, heartfelt responses.  “Celebrating UBGA’s Love for Mexico and Their Mission to Bring Healthcare Where It’s Needed Most”

Inside you’ll find:

👉 UBGA’s reflections on love for country and community
👉 Powerful stories from the communities they serve
👉 Insights into their ongoing projects and future vision

It’s a meaningful glimpse into the heart of their work — we hope you’ll give it a read.