For 2024 FCSN Outstanding Volunteer Melinda Wong, dance has always been an integral part of her life. Her love for dance inspired her to teach a dance class at FCSN, which for three years, she has brought to FCSN’s South Bay Center. In this article, Melinda shares her experience and the valuable insights that volunteering has given her. Continue reading 2024 FCSN Outstanding Volunteer: Melinda Wong
From a sophomore at Prospect High School to now an incoming college freshman, Karen Gong’s involvement with FCSN has not only shaped her personal growth but also has inspired her to pursue a path dedicated to making a positive difference in her community and beyond…
Continue reading 2024 FCSN Outstanding Volunteer Spotlight: Karen Gong
At the Campbell Community Center Auxiliary Gym, sounds of footsteps and laughter rang out as special needs individuals engaged in basketball drills and team building exercises. With the arrival of summer and newfound free time, many participants eagerly embraced the opportunity to stay active and socialize. The classes, part of FCSN’s annual Summer Sports Program, featured basketball, badminton, and pickleball lessons… Continue reading FCSN Summer Sports Program Empowers Inclusion and Encourages Growth
Working as a fundamental part of FCSN’s SNTutoring, Computer Classes Head Catherine Wang proved her valuable dedication towards helping the special needs community through her volunteer service. Having spent four years in FCSN, she truly exemplifies a driven and devoted team player in her endeavors… Continue reading 2024 FCSN Outstanding Youth Volunteer: Catherine Wang
In the heart of the bustling community of Fremont, California, a unique and transformative music program is making waves. This program is spearheaded by Anna Wang, FCSN Co-Founder and Harrison Cheng, a longtime music teacher, and inspired by Annie Wen, a USC senior and former president and CEO of the tri-city band core for FCSN. The Special Needs Percussion Guard Program, founded in 2018 and having its first performance in 2019, is not just about creating music; it’s about fostering connections between students, building confidence, and empowering individuals with special needs through the universal language of rhythm. Continue reading Harmony in Rhythm – Special Needs Percussion Guard Program
FCSN’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year, Aarav Sharma, is a rising senior at Archbishop Mitty High School and a dedicated volunteer for FCSN. As he recounts his FCSN experiences, he shares valuable lessons that FCSN has taught him as well as advice for fellow volunteers. Continue reading FCSN’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year Recipient: Aarav Sharma
Since Mission San Jose High School rising junior Stephanie Yu was six years old, visits to FCSN with her mom were more than just spending time at her mom’s workplace. It was her introduction to understanding the special needs community, ultimately prompting her to become an FCSN volunteer. Over the last two years, Stephanie has displayed her leadership through numerous FCSN events, from coaching basketball to fundraising money through the FCSN galas, resulting in her being selected as the 2024 Outstanding Youth Volunteer… Continue reading FCSN Outstanding Volunteer Award Recipient: Stephanie Yu
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
Mrs. Mannching Wang, a parent of a special needs individual, has dedicated herself tirelessly to advocating for the special needs community and contributing significantly to FCSN. Over her 26-year journey with the organization, she has served as the South Bay Local Program Coordinator for five years, mentored numerous FCSN volunteers, and helped in Saturday Family Gatherings to foster community bonds among families facing similar challenges. Now, she shares a message of hope and solidarity for future generations united by love and support. Continue reading Interview with Mannching Wang: An Inspiring, 26-Year Journey of a Special Needs Parent
Through Turtleworks, founder Sherry Meng provides young adults with special needs the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a supportive environment, fostering their independence and personal growth.
In this interview, Meng describes how parents can best prepare their children for future employment based on her own experiences. She also shares advice for other parents who want to start a business employing people with special needs. Continue reading Interview with Sherry Meng: Advice for Parents on Preparing Children for Employment & Starting a Business
fcsnvoices.org 