After joining FCSN as a construction team volunteer in 2004, Stanley Woo has helped build all 3 of FCSN’s centers (East Bay, South Bay, and Osgood). He shares his journey from engineering student to construction team member, as well as all of the valuable lessons he has learned along the way. Continue reading Laying FCSN’s Foundations: Stanley Woo’s FCSN Journey
In a harmonious blend of rhythmic movements, colorful flags, and joyful spirits, the Blue Devils Special Needs Color Guard demonstrates a story of growth and inclusivity. Annette Odello, the team’s passionate coach, launched the Blue Devils special needs color guard program in Fremont. A visit to one of the Blue Devils’ rehearsals reveals both Annette’s devotion to her students and the team’s enthusiasm to learn. Continue reading Blue Devils Color Guard Rehearsals: Navigating Life’s Lessons for Special Needs Students
Imagine someone you love is in need of support from their community, but that support is just not there. Imagine how helpless that might make you feel as you witness your loved one struggle. Would you wish to find a haven where your loved one felt like they belonged? For many, Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN) is that haven. Founded in 1996 by ten families, and now serving over a thousand families in the Bay Area, FCSN’s mission is to help individuals with special needs and their families find love, hope, respect, and support through integrated community involvement. I spoke to one of the co-founders, Linmei Chiao, to find out more about the heroes running this organization. Continue reading Volunteering At FCSN
Dr. Jennifer Carauddo describes her journey toward establishing the Health-Physical Therapy Class, a program designed to improve clients’ coordination, athleticism, and strength. She shares the inspiring stories of her clients’ progress as the class helps them grow beyond previous limitations. Continue reading A Journey to FCSN’s Health-Physical Therapy Class
Natalie Hsia, a recently graduated senior from Cupertino High School, has left a profound impact as a volunteer at FCSN over the past four years. Her journey began with a realization that every student possesses the unique needs and qualities that deserve attention and understanding. Through her commitment to tutoring at FCSN, she found a wonderful way to connect with each student on a personal level, gaining invaluable insights into their individual personalities. Continue reading FCSN GYVers 2023: Natalie Hsia
“When I first found out about FCSN, I wanted to bring something I was passionate about to this special community,” FCSN Tennis Program Founder Sairisheeth Venkat said. Sairisheeth learned about FCSN when he was searching for volunteer opportunities online and was fascinated by the close-knit community and numerous opportunities offered by the organization to help special needs individuals. Continue reading Sairisheeth’s Journey in Creating FCSN Tennis Camp
SN Tutoring Program Spotlight #1
Parent Ms. Liu recently thanked Tutor Alison Ding for her sharp insight, patience, and open-mindedness while teaching. “Alison is not only willing to help special needs kids with extra patience, but she also takes the effort to adjust her way to meet the kid’s level of ability. Not all professionals in the special education field can do that, but Alison does. She quickly builds the bond with her student and keeps open communication with the parents so that both of us can work together as a team. In summary, she is a great tutor!” Continue reading SN Tutoring Program Spotlight: Alison Ding and Ms. Liu
Meet Joyce Lui: a senior at Monta Vista High School located in Cupertino, California, who is incredibly passionate about the special needs community. Since 10th grade, she has been very involved in school and volunteering, finding various ways to support special needs children. From hanging out virtually over Zoom to pairing special needs individuals with a buddy at school, her journey of supporting special needs children started with FCSN. Continue reading 2022 FCSN Scholarship Recipient: Joyce Lui
From the opening night on September 9 to the public exhibition on September 10 and September 12-14, Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN) held their 1st Art Exhibit, “Through Our Eyes,” a celebration of special needs talents in the arts. FCSN has always valued the arts of their students and wanted to organize this showcase to give exposure to their artists and their art. Continue reading Behind the Scenes of FCSN’s Successful Art Exhibit, “Through Our Eyes”
Written by: Jessica Hung and Crystal Chen, FCSN Voices Youth/Senior Reporter Graphics by: Barkha Trivedi, FCSN Voices Graphic Artist For UC Davis fourth-year student Erica Chiu, her commitment to FCSN knows no bounds. In her five years at FCSN, she, again and again, defined volunteering as a timeless adventure–continuing through college and into her career. Today, Chiu manages the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) Program … Continue reading 2022 FCSN Scholarship Recipient: Erica Chiu
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