Driven by a passion to make an impact, high-school and university students across Northern California have created numerous clubs under FCSN. Since 2019, the network of clubs has supported each other in carrying FCSN’s mission of helping the special needs community to the youth. Currently, there are fourteen clubs under the FCSN Clubs umbrella: Alsion Montessori High School/Ohlone College… Continue reading A Growing Network: Student-Led Clubs at FCSN
In January 2024, the Graphic Artists on the FCSN Voices team launched a Digital Art Collaboration program. In this program, special needs students and graphic artists embark on a journey of artistic exploration over the course of four weeks. The resulting artwork proudly lives on the FCSN Voices website in an online gallery, showcasing special needs individuals’ combined talents and creativity. Continue reading Uniting Art and Community through FCSN Voices Graphic Artist Collaboration Project
Whether it’s children falling asleep to bedtime stories, families passing down their histories, or memorable moments captured and shared, storytelling serves as a powerful medium for learning and building community. In the past winter and spring semester, FCSN’s newest virtual enrichment class, Storyland, explores this storytelling medium, sharing morals and stimulating imaginations, all while strengthening vocabulary and reading comprehension skills. Continue reading Storyland Virtual Enrichment Program: Learning Through Stories
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
Scroll to the bottom of the homepage or view the “Digital Art” menu tab/category to see our first group of student artwork! Continue reading Launching the FCSN Voices Digital Art Collaboration!
On January 27th, six special needs individuals and their parents traveled to San Jose to attend a workshop co-hosted with The Praxeum, an indigenous martial arts and parkour organization. The Praxeum teaches Guardian Art, an indigenous fighting art that heavily emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. In this workshop, special needs individuals were able to learn the fundamentals of Guardian Art, as well as participate in a game that pushed them beyond their limits. Continue reading FCSN X The Praxeum Workshop
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
Food and Nutrition Series #9
Since its establishment in 2014, FCSN’s cooking program has served as a gateway to practical skills and culinary exploration for its eager participants. The program aims to teach basic, practical cooking skills that students can carry with them throughout their lives. Ms. Michelle, a lead instructor of the program, shares her own experiences and insights into the program along with an overview of the class itself. Continue reading A Recipe for Self-Growth: Spotlight on FCSN’s After-School Cooking Program
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
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