Our Mission

The Southeast Asian Coalition is a not-for-profit organization that supports, promotes and advocates for the success of the Southeast Asians of Central Massachusetts in mainstream society. The Southeast Asian Coalition will pursue its mission by:

  • Providing assistance in the area of educational and job training;
  • Providing economic, social, cultural and emotional support to area Southeast Asians in an effort to successfully integrate them into mainstream American society;
  • Cultivating connections and linkage between area Southeast Asians and the mainstream American community; and,
  • Supporting the cultural heritage of the many and various Southeast Asian cultures represented throughout the greater Worcester community.

    The Southeast Asians are Vietnamese, Cambodians, and Laotians. Most arrived in the USA following the fall of Indochina to the Communists in 1975. Many are refugees: some came via traditional immigration routes while others arrived in the USA through circumvented avenues of escape, such as the boat people and those who lived in mass encampments. Many refugees fled against their will.

    Founded in 1999 by a group of Southeast Asian students, the Southeast Asian Coalition was established to respond to the Southeast Asian (SEA) community's need for services, access to government services, and general advocacy. In the summer of 2002, the SEA coalition obtained funding from the City of Worcester and opened a Center located on Main Street. Since its opening, the SEA community has consistently and strongly identified with the Center, using it as a valuable resource and support center for all aspects of their lives. In September of 2002 Center became the first “Drop-In-Center” for the Southeast Asian community in Central Massachusetts.

    The Southeast Asian is the fastest growing population in Worcester, increasing in number by almost 500% from 1980 to 1990, and another 91% in the following decade to a current total of more than 8,900 residents (Census 2000). Of the Southeast Asian residents, approximately 2,014 children attend Worcester Public Schools and more than 470 adolescents currently attend Worcester public high schools.

    SEACOCMASS provides:

  • Interpretation and document translation
  • Referral and assistance with health care, legal, employment, and naturalization
  • Cultural activities and community events
  • Volunteer activities
  • Youth Group
  • Community Activity Group
  • ESL classes