Interview with Cathy Yang: SEP & TDS Coordinator

Cathy Yang serves as the coordinator for two programs at FCSN: the Supported Employment Program (SEP) and Tailored Day Services (TDS) at the Fremont Center. Both initiatives are dedicated to assisting individuals with special needs in finding employment based on their skills and preferences. Come along as Cathy shares details about the programs, and their impact on clients and the greater community. Continue reading Interview with Cathy Yang: SEP & TDS Coordinator

A Look into the South Bay Adult Day Program with Annabelle Foz

Opened by FCSN in 2004, the South Bay Adult Day Program (ADP) offers adults with developmental disabilities a joyful, supportive environment that facilitates personal growth, community interaction, and a healthy, meaningful life. Annabelle Foz, the Program Manager, shares an insider’s-look into the program’s purpose and services, as well as her favorite experiences from over 12 years of involvement. Continue reading A Look into the South Bay Adult Day Program with Annabelle Foz

FCSN Gala 2023: Dreams Become a Reality

On November 5, 2023, FCSN held its annual β€œExpand Our Dream” gala at the Grand Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, the second in-person Gala since the COVID pandemic. This event, bringing together hundreds of supporters, volunteers, board members, and staff, was a night filled with hope and gratitude, helping to foster connections among the community. Along with recognizing the achievements of individuals and the community as a whole, FCSN also shared with its supporters their visions for the future. Continue reading FCSN Gala 2023: Dreams Become a Reality

Interview with Dr. Lucy Qiao: Gastrointestinal (GI) Issues in Individuals with Special Needs

Food and Nutrition Series #8
FCSN Voices has initiated a series of interviews with Dr. Lucy Qiao on topics related to food and nutrition for individuals with special needs. In this interview, Dr. Qiao discusses the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) issues in individuals with special needs. She breaks down the three major types of GI issues and explains why they are so common within the special needs community. She also shares intriguing discoveries from current research on the gut-brain axis, a topic found to have strong links to autism and special needs. Continue reading Interview with Dr. Lucy Qiao: Gastrointestinal (GI) Issues in Individuals with Special Needs

Empowering Independence: Inside FCSN’s Supported Living Services

For many families with children with special needs, the question of care, especially as parents age, is paramount. As many special needs adults transition into independence, Supported Living Services, or SLS, assists them with developing the skills and obtaining resources they need to live on their own in the community. The program helps adults over 18 years old with independent living skills such as hygiene, communication and socialization, safety, nutrition, household maintenance, and more. The program also helps clients find housing and sign up for resources like section 8 housing voucher and IHSS ( In Home Support Service ). Beyond that, the program helps clients build up living skills so that they can live independently within the community with support. Continue reading Empowering Independence: Inside FCSN’s Supported Living Services

Unity in Diversity: Disability Resource Festival

It was a warm day with the sun shining brightly as crowds of people of all ages and backgrounds eagerly followed the neon markers labeled β€œThis Way to the Disability Resource Festival.” Held on September 24 at Ardenwood Farm in Fremont, the Disability Resource Festival was hosted by the City of Fremont Human Relations Commission, in partnership with FCSN. The goal of this free event was to connect people with disabilities at all ages and to promote safety with law enforcement in the disabled community. In a day full of festivity and information, participants visited many booths by community organizations and attended safety demonstrations by police and fire departments, all while soaking in the lively music, games, and entertainment.Β  Continue reading Unity in Diversity: Disability Resource Festival

Interview with Dr. Lucy Qiao: Establishing Healthy Eating Habits

Food and Nutrition Series #7
FCSN Voices has initiated a series of interviews with Dr. Lucy Qiao on topics related to food and nutrition for individuals with special needs.Β In this interview, Dr. Qiao discusses her personal journey as a mother of a child with autism. She shares her insight on the importance of nutrition, as well as her experiences with establishing healthy eating habits and providing a balanced diet for her child. She also offers valuable advice and strategies for other parents facing similar challenges. Continue reading Interview with Dr. Lucy Qiao: Establishing Healthy Eating Habits

Empowering Social and Emotional Growth: The Kid & Teen Social Play Group for Special Needs Children

Every day, many special needs children face new, uncomfortable, and unfamiliar situations. They need important life skills to handle the complex world of social interactions in various settings. How can they express and cope with their emotions when someone hurts or upsets them? How can they start and maintain a conversation when they want to talk, play, and make friends with others? The Kid and Teen Social Play Group program at FCSN is here to help them by teaching how to identify, express, and manage their feelings, communicate and solve problems with others, take different perspectives, and work as a team. Continue reading Empowering Social and Emotional Growth: The Kid & Teen Social Play Group for Special Needs Children

FCSN GYVers 2023: Rosalie Chiang

As a young actor, 18-year-old Rosalie Chiang has already accomplished impressive milestones in her career, including being the voice actor for the main character Mei Lee of Turning Red. While Rosalie is known for her voice and acting skills, a big part of her identity lies elsewhere: giving back to the community. FCSN has always been a key part of her story. Having joined FCSN at an incredibly young age and growing up with the organization by her side, the recent high school graduate has not only made a defining impact on the organization but has also learned valuable lessons while volunteering.Β  Continue reading FCSN GYVers 2023: Rosalie Chiang