Focusing on the experiences of Southeast Asian refugees in small Wisconsin cities, this paper addressed two broad issues: First, how do non-white ethnic groups survive in their majority white environments? And second, what creative support systems have emerged from within these groups or from the interested efforts of non-minority community leaders? In the first part of the paper, problems that Southeast Asian refugees face in Wisconsin are reviewed; areas discussed include employment, language and adult education, racism, and cultural misunderstanding. This is followed by an assessment of the challenges that this ethnic group has presented for the small cities in which they have resettled; problems include demographic shifts, changes in service delivery, financial costs, and changes in community relations. Next, the primary ethnic support system used by the Southeast Asians and their advocates, the Mutual Assistance Associations, is described. The purpose, structure, location, and program activities of these organizations are outlined, and sources of their funding (state and local governments, voluntary agencies, and the private sector) are detailed. Finally, recommendations are offered for the development of similar support systems for any ethnic minority located in a small city. (GC)