About S.E.A.R., Inc.
S.E.A.R. (South-East Asian Relief) was founded in St. Petersburg, Florida, by a Vietnam veteran affectionately known as Mr. Rex. During his time in the war, Mr. Rex formed a deep bond with the street and farm children of Southeast Asia—many of whom risked their lives to save his.
Inspired by their courage and compassion, he dedicated his life to serving others. S.E.A.R. was born out of that mission: an interdenominational Christian relief and social service organization supporting Southeast- Asian refugees as they begin new lives in America.
About S.E.A.R., Inc.
S.E.A.R. (South-East Asian Relief) was founded in St. Petersburg, Florida, by a Vietnam veteran affectionately known as Mr. Rex. During his time in the war, Mr. Rex formed a deep bond with the street and farm children of Southeast Asia—many of whom risked their lives to save his.
Inspired by their courage and compassion, he dedicated his life to serving others. S.E.A.R. was born out of that mission: an interdenominational Christian relief and social service organization supporting Southeast- Asian refugees as they begin new lives in America.
In its early years, S.E.A.R. played a vital role in sponsoring and resettling refugee families throughout the Tampa Bay area. Partnering with numerous local churches, the organization provided support to families fleeing war and poverty, helping them build new lives in the United States.
Before the fall of Saigon in 1975, S.E.A.R.’s director, Mr. Rex, worked directly in Viet Nam. Following the war, he continued his mission by serving in refugee camps across the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Thailand. His efforts were in collaboration with respected humanitarian organizations such as World Relief Commission, Youth With a Mission, and Christian Revival Church.
Mr. Rex holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Juvenile Corrections from the University of Iowa. His lifelong mission has been to serve children, youth, and especially unaccompanied minors. From 1972 to 1992, he carried out this work in refugee camps across Southeast Asia and within the United States.
Since 1993, Mr. Rex has been permitted to re-enter Viet Nam, where his work continues.
Today, S.E.A.R. actively supports Southeast Asian families in St. Petersburg, Florida, and leads a growing full-time ministry serving children and youth in Viet Nam.
Inspired by their courage and compassion, he dedicated his life to serving others. S.E.A.R. was born out of that mission: an interdenominational Christian relief and social service organization supporting Southeast- Asian refugees as they begin new lives in America.
