Interview with Sherry Meng: Empowering Special Needs Employment, One Stitch at a Time

For the past 15 years, Turtleworks founder, Sherry Meng, has devoted her time as a volunteer and program leader at FCSN, where she has taught students with special needs a wide range of practical skills. However, she soon realized that her students lacked the experience of working for a real business. As an educator, Meng wanted to determine what skills the job market seeks in individuals with special needs. As a parent, Meng was driven to create a supportive working environment where children like her own could gain meaningful employment opportunities and training. In this interview, Meng describes the initiation of Turtleworks, its employment model, and inclusive working environment and impact. Continue reading Interview with Sherry Meng: Empowering Special Needs Employment, One Stitch at a Time

Special Needs Talent Showcase: 10 Years of Empowerment

On April 13, 2024, FCSN held its tenth annual talent show finals at the Santa Clara Convention Theater. The show featured eleven finalist performances and eight honorable mentions. Now on its tenth year, the showcase has evolved from an informal opportunity for the special needs community to showcase their talent to a diverse form of empowerment for the community as a whole. Continue reading Special Needs Talent Showcase: 10 Years of Empowerment

Building Community and Support: The Impact of East Bay Family Gathering at FCSN

Since its establishment in 1996, the Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN) organization has been a beacon of support for families facing challenges with children who have special needs. Among the organizationโ€™s many initiatives, family support gatherings stand out as cornerstone events, offering nurturing environments where children can engage in enriching activities while parents connect, share their experiences with their children, and find resources… Continue reading Building Community and Support: The Impact of East Bay Family Gathering at FCSN