SEA Literacy was founded by Bob Heffernan in response to the need for academic tutoring and cultural mentorship of Rohingyan refugee children from Burma, also called Myanmar, who now reside in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. These children are a part of a growing population of refugees that live in the greater Milwaukee area who are unable to return to their home country because of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, social group, or political opinion.

 

 

At SEA Literacy, our goal is to support refugee children, adolescents, and young adults to overcome the difficulties that come with their upheaval to find healing and support as they successfully navigate their personal and academic lives.

 

 

When SEA Literacy first began, we primarily focused on academics, working on homework and English language skills. As we began to work with more students and learn about their lives, we saw the importance to also build a community that also fostered their emotional and social success. We expanded our services to also provide time for our students to play games and engage in educational activities. On top of our day to day activities, we also building strong friendships with each other and trusting relationships with our staff and many volunteers.