Seesaw Communities is dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities by providing vocational training, employment opportunities, and a sense of community. Our mission is to foster independence, self-esteem, and a better quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to thrive in today’s workforce.
About Us
Welcome to Seesaw Communities
Mission
Seesaw Communities
Vision
We envision a world where individuals with developmental disabilities are fully integrated into society, not just as workers but as valued members of their communities. Seesaw Communities seeks to break down barriers, raise awareness, and create sustainable opportunities that allow everyone to contribute their unique talents and strengths to the world.
Seesaw Communities
History
2021:
Seesaw Communities was founded during the COVID-19 pandemic with the belief that adults with developmental disabilities,like their peers, should have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work and contribute to society. In May 2021, Seesaw Communities launched its Coffee Education program,providing hands-on training to help participants develop job-ready skills.
2022:
Seesaw introduced its Graphic Art program,empowering participants to develop digital and creative skills.The program aims to help them design and create their own products,offering job opportunities by selling on platforms like Etsy.The Espresso Cart program was launched to raise community awareness about individuals with developmental disabilities while providing them with real-world job experience through events like corporate functions and golf tournaments. Seesaw held 27 Espresso Cart events in 2022.
2023:
Seesaw’s Espresso Cart program expanded, with 57 events held across corporate functions, golf tournaments, and community gatherings. In August 2023, Seesaw Beans and Coffee was opened in Buena Park, facing the difficulty of finding employment for individuals with developmental disabilities in regular stores. All students who completed Seesaw’s training were hired as staff.
2024:
In February 2024, Seesaw launched the Walnut Coffee Training Center in the East LA area, providing individuals with developmental disabilities not only weekly practice in a real-world café setting but also valuable training opportunities. Also in February 2024, a former Seesaw Beans and Coffee staff member, along with their parents, opened an on-site café at San Gabriel Pomona Regional Center, marking their transition to independent business ownership. In August 2024, Seesaw introduced a Baking Program to complement its coffee training, recognizing the importance of bakery skills in running a successful café. To support our growing barista training program, we plan to open 2nd and 3rd locations, which will also include bakery services. These new spaces will provide more hands-on training opportunities, helping trainees develop both coffee-making and baking skills. This expansion will further strengthen our mission to empower individuals with developmental disabilities by providing a supportive environment for vocational training and community engagement.
Board of Director and Staff
Board of Director
Staff
© 2025 Seesaw Communities. All rights reserved.