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SEA Place is a community-focused nonprofit organization based in Lexington County, South Carolina, dedicated to breaking the generational cycle of poverty. Established in 2020 by a group of educators and community leaders, the organization operates with a mission to empower residents in need by providing consolidated, accessible resources.

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Breaking the generational cycle of poverty by empowering communities with consolidated, accessible resources.

Born from a series of visionary discussions in the summer of 2020, SEA Place was founded by a dedicated coalition of educators and community leaders driven to revitalize rural Lexington County. What began as a collaborative dialogue has rapidly evolved into a multifaceted resource hub, established through strategic partnerships with local churches and nonprofit organizations to address the diverse needs in our region.

Since its inception, the organization has implemented a holistic suite of empowerment-focused services designed to foster stability and long-term success for its residents. These initiatives include:

  • Educational Advancement: A robust G.E.D. program and specialized classes for obtaining driving permits, providing the fundamental credentials necessary for workforce entry.
  • Essential Support: A weekly food pantry and dedicated community outreach programs specifically tailored to assist the local homeless population with immediate needs.
  • Skill Development & Mentorship: Comprehensive budgeting classes to promote financial literacy, alongside a Youth Leadership program designed to guide the next generation toward purposeful futures.

By bridging the gap between immediate crisis intervention and long-term educational support. SEA Place is a vital cornerstone for community growth, transforming the initial goals of our founders into a tangible, life-changing reality for the people of Lexington County.

Call us: 803-317-0152 learn more

Our Programs

G.E.D. Program

SEA Place supports adult education by providing a comprehensive, accessible path to earning a high school equivalency diploma.

  • Cost-Free Support: The program is entirely free for participants, covering the cost of the classes, all necessary supplies (workbooks and practice tests), and the exam fees.
  • Tutoring & Resources: Specialized tutoring is provided to ensure students are prepared for the exam.
  • Schedule: Classes typically meet on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at White Knoll High School.
  • Career Advancement: Upon completion, the organization assists students in transitioning toward new career paths or enrolling in local technical college programs.

G.E.D classes are not offered during summer.

ASVAB

SEA Place supports young adults considering serving our country by joining the military.

  • Cost-Free Support: The program is entirely free for participants, covering the cost of the classes, all necessary supplies (workbooks and practice tests), and the exam fees.
  • Tutoring & Resources: Specialized tutoring is provided to ensure students are prepared for the exam.
  • Schedule: Classes typically meet on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at White Knoll High School.

ASVAB only runs August thru May. There is no class during summer.

Food Pantry

To address immediate community needs, SEA Place operates a community food pantry focused on providing nutritional support.

  • Accessibility: The pantry is open to everyone on Thursday mornings from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
  • Location: It is hosted at RADIUS Church White Knoll, located at 5181 Platt Springs Road in Lexington.

Community Outreach

The outreach program is centered on “reaching out to lift up,” specifically targeting individuals facing difficult life challenges, including the local homeless population.

  • Hot Meals: On alternating Friday evenings, volunteers drive through the community to provide free hot meals to those in need.
  • Emotional & Spiritual Support: Beyond physical nourishment, volunteers offer prayer and encouragement to build trusting relationships with those they serve.
  • Navigational Assistance: Through these established relationships, the organization helps individuals navigate the process of moving forward in their lives and accessing further resources.

Additional Specialized Classes

In addition to their core pillars, SEA Place occasionally offers specialized instructional sessions to provide practical life skills:

  • Financial Planning/Budget Classes: Helping residents manage their finances and plan for the future.
  • Driving Permit Classes: Assisting individuals in obtaining their driving permits to improve mobility and employment opportunities.

Meet the Team

John Nix
President

Mary Thomas
Vice President

Tina Densford
Secretary

Nessie Harris
board member & youth mentor

Jim Bagnall
Board member

Robbie Lastinger
Board Member & Treasurer

Tiffany Porterfield
Board member

Jim Kendall
Assistant Director

Kaylie D'Eredita
Executive Director

Get involved at S.e.a. place

Whether you're looking to take a parenting course or get your youth involved in our mentorship program, we want to meet you!  

Call us: 803-317-0152 Donate