Seesaw Communities

We create pathways to independence and belonging for young adults with developmental disabilities.

Support the cause

Our mission

We empower adults with developmental disabilities to build independent, meaningful lives through ILS. We fulfill this mission by integrating vocational training, creating pathways to independence, and providing community-based support — recognizing meaningful work as a foundation of independence, dignity, and quality of life.

We're here every step of the way.

  • Two young adults baking muffins

    ILS Training

    We build the life skills that give young adults the confidence to live on their own terms.

  • Seesaw employees working at a cafe

    Vocational

    We prepare young adults for employment through hands-on skills training and workplace readiness.

  • The Seesaw community gathered together at an outdoor event.

    Community

    Belonging matters. We create spaces where young adults build friendships and thrive in their communities.

Why we began

Where Seesaw Communities came from.

Seesaw began to respond to a real support gap.

For many young adults with developmental disabilities, high school graduation is not a beginning. It is a cliff. Structured support disappears, and most are left without a clear path to work, independence, or community.

We founded Seesaw Communities to close that gap — building programs rooted in the belief that every young adult has the ability and the right to a full life.

We want to create real hope and real resources for an underserved population, where life is not limited by a lack of support.

Only15%

of young adults with developmental disabilities are employed despite their ability and willingness to work.

Source: National Core Indicators, 2020–2021

In response, we created programs that:

  • Foster independence
  • Build self-confidence
  • Strengthen self-advocacy

Our Values

about values strip webp decorative artwork

Meet our mascots

Seeya

The Empathetic Guide

Seeya (시야) means "vision" in Korean. She is the vision and guide of our organization. She helps each participant find their path forward — with empathy, patience, and purpose.

Seeya, a friendly character in glasses and a blue sweater, waving hello.

Sawri

The Joyful Advocate

Sawri (소리) means "sound" in Korean. He is the voice and communicator of our organization. He helps each participant find and use their own voice — joyfully and with confidence.

Sawri, a cheerful character in a hoodie, waving with a thumbs-up.
Who we serve

Young adults who are ready for more.

Two illustrated friends playing on a seesaw among stars.
  • Participants

    Young adults aged 18+ who want to build skills, find work, and live more independently.

  • Families and caregivers

    Parents and caregivers looking for trusted programs that support their loved one's growth.

  • Employer partners

    Businesses and organizations that want to help build a more equitable workforce in their community.

  • Schools and transition programs

    Special education teams and transition coordinators looking for community partners.

Stories from our community

Youngjun sketching a sunflower at an easel in a Seesaw art class.
Art helped me to express my feelings and thoughts.
Youngjun
View more testimonies

Board of Directors

  • Edward Youn

    Edward Youn

    Board Chair

    Chairman, New Connect Freight, Inc

  • Mansun Cho

    Executive Vice President, Hanmi Bank

  • Soa Kang

    CEO, edCREASIANs

  • David Lee

    David Lee

    Founder & Chairman, Kaizen Dining Group

  • Ryan Lee

    Ryan Lee

    Broker/Owner, Coldwell Banker Best Realty

  • Sejin Oh

    CEO, LinkONE, Inc

  • Sun Y. Park

    CEO & Founder, Tower Escrow

Our Staff

  • Sam Yoon

    Founder

  • Jennifer Lee

    Admin · Grant Manager

  • Lily Lee

    Outreach Coordinator

  • Grace Kim

    Grant Coordinator · Art Instructor · Accountant

  • Lauren Lee

    Art Instructor

  • Rachel Lee

    Barista Training Instructor

  • Caleb Yang

    Barista Training Instructor

  • Kate

    Baking Instructor

  • Wonsung Sohn

    Computer Instructor

  • Justin Lee

    Computer Instructor

  • Sindy Lee

    Program Instructor

  • Mi Young Pyun

    Piano Instructor

Join Us in Making Inclusion Possible

Our work is made possible by a community that believes everyone deserves the opportunity to grow, contribute, and belong. Your support helps fund hands-on training, life-skills programs, and real-world experiences that empower young adults with developmental disabilities to build independence and lead self-directed lives.

Donate today