Written by: Helen Gu, FCSN Voices Assistant Team Lead
Graphic by: Melody Chen, FCSN Voices Graphic Artist

On June 28, 2025, from 5–8 PM, FCSN held its first Lu’au party at the FCSN South Bay center. The event featured traditional Hawaiian foods, music, and activities, creating an atmosphere of celebration for the attending FCSN families. Over the past year, FCSN’s growth —especially with the completion of the new Osgood Center—caused a new goal to develop for the organization: to connect newer families with those who have been there longer and to foster more community bonding, especially through community events like these.

“This is an opportunity to celebrate our community and culture in the true Hawaiian spirit,” said Roxana Chiu, the organizer of the event. Entering families were given a flower lei to wear, and tables were decorated with Hawaiian elements, including candles, flowers, and Hawaii-themed temporary tattoos. A photo booth celebrating the Hawaiian spirit was stationed in the corner of the room.

Dream Achievers, FCSN’s band consisting of award-winning musicians with autism, opened the Lu’au with a selection of songs. From popular classics like “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” to cultural pieces like “Hawaiian Wedding Song,” the band set the mood for the evening with a wide variety of Hawaiian music. Having learned all seven songs a week prior in preparation for the event, the Dream Achievers’ performance at the Lu’au demonstrated the band members’ passion for and talent in music.

Anna, one of the co-founders of FCSN, shared some remarks regarding the significance of the event. “It’s a lot of work but lots of fun,” she commented, looking at the families clad in traditional Hawaiian wear. “The community needs more to bring them together—not just a regular picnic or potluck, but a new kind of thing to bring people together and have fun.”

Dinner for the Lu’au consisted of foods that aimed to capture authentic Hawaiian flavor: sesame noodles, braised pork, and even a 30-pound roast suckling pig donated by FCSN, all served in individual bentos. Dessert consisted of pineapple sherbert and sponge cake. Families attending the event enjoyed the selection of foods while watching several performances, including musical performances by FCSN’s own staff. Yvette Ying, an FCSN parent volunteer, sang Teresa Teng’s 南海姑娘 (South Sea Girl). Jason, co-president of FCSN, performed Sweet Caroline, accompanied by singing families.

For CK Lee, co-president of FCSN, the most important part of these family events is the bonds created within the organization. “We’ve had a lot of family events before,” he said. “That’s how FCSN can improve ourselves.” Lee shared that, especially after the pandemic, the organization relied on family events to strengthen FCSN’s bond.

Haopinaka, a Hawaiian hula dance and band group from the Bay Area, was an integral part of the Lu’au party. Leilani, one of Haopinaka’s dancers, attended the event and performed several hula dances, including a short hula lesson for guests. Music ranged from traditional Hawaiian songs to more modern pieces such as “We Know The Way” from Moana. During “Hukilau,” one of the hula dance songs, Dream Achievers joined in playing—a testament to the unity within celebration.

The event closed with a group dance party featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary music—including Bruno Mars and Rosé’s recent hit, “APT.” As families said goodbye to each other for the night, the spirit of Hawaii lingered in the air, from the colorful flowers laid across the table to the leftovers packed in takeout containers. As FCSN’s first Hawaiian-themed event, this cultural celebration created a night of joy and connection for attending FCSN families. Or, as Roxana said: they all felt the Lu’au.