The Caring Hearts Behind FCSNโ€™s Supported Living System (SLS) Program

Behind many of FCSNโ€™s programs are kind-hearted individuals who dedicate their lives to help those with special needs. Among these remarkable individuals is Feliza Hsu, a case manager for FCSNโ€™s East Bay Supported Living Services (SLS) program. The mission of FCSNโ€™s SLS program is to provide a lifestyle of choice, independence, and support for their clients, namely adults with special needs, through helping them develop personal skills as well as build financial independence by finding and maintaining a job. Continue reading The Caring Hearts Behind FCSNโ€™s Supported Living System (SLS) Program

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 programโ€™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

Empowering Independence: Inside FCSNโ€™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 FCSNโ€™s Supported Living Services

FCSN Plays an Integral Part of My Sonโ€™s Life

In March 2020, Bay Area counties instituted Shelter-in-Place orders due to the arrival of the COVID pandemic, and FCSN was forced to suspend in-person programs. This surely created enormous problems for the staff and volunteers who have been keeping this wonderful organization afloat under what are even in the best of times, challenging circumstances. But it also created a crisis for our son Jon and all of the clients and their families who have been relying on FCSN services. Continue reading FCSN Plays an Integral Part of My Sonโ€™s Life

Friends Coffee & Tea: Behind the Cookies

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From almond crispies to snow bliss cookies, Friends Coffee & Teaโ€™s delicious sweets have a special meaning behind them. Each week, the shop holds a cookie training group session, working with a handful of special needs adults (age 22 and above) to teach them how to make these delicacies.ย  Continue reading Friends Coffee & Tea: Behind the Cookies

Blue Devils Special Needs Guardโ€“Paving the Way to Inclusive Performing Arts

On April 2, 2022, the Blue Devils’ Special Needs Guard performed at the Circuit Championship held at Independence High School. They were the last performance of the day โ€” a position typically reserved for the most honored performing position. Dancing to This Is Me from The Greatest Showman, a song that fittingly describes the challenging journey of all special needs performers, all the members gave it their all and proudly showed off the moves that they have practiced for so long. Continue reading Blue Devils Special Needs Guardโ€“Paving the Way to Inclusive Performing Arts

Scouting with FCSN, an Inclusive Social Event

In March 2022, Boy Scouts member Ricky Lin led a project in which special needs individuals got to experience the joy of scouting. Around 30 FCSN participants attended with their families, learning the scouts way of building teamwork, social skills, and unforgettable memories.ย  Continue reading Scouting with FCSN, an Inclusive Social Event

Pilot Phase of Supported Living Services for High Needs Individuals

FCSN Supported Living Services has just begun its journey in branching out into including individuals with high support needs. On April 9th, 15 families attended a discussion to learn more about this program. FCSN has also completed the intake of two pilot clients. The program, while in its infancy, has significant potential in providing numerous families with the support they need. Continue reading Pilot Phase of Supported Living Services for High Needs Individuals

Peace of Mind Through SLS and ILS

What will happen to the special needs adult as the parents grow older and are unable to take care of their them anymore? Who will take care of them and how will their lives look like?ย Learn about how Supported Living Services (SLS) and Independent Living Services (ILS) addresses these worries and how adults with special needs can learn to achieve an independent lifestyle. Continue reading Peace of Mind Through SLS and ILS