Supporting Branden Through the Self Determination Program (SDP)

Two years ago, the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) introduced the Self-Determination Program (SDP) through Person-Centered Planning at an open house. Susan and Yong were quick to sign up for the pilot program, as their son Branden was in the last year of the Young Adult Program at the time. Although Branden was able to keep up with his academic workload, his autism manifested as extreme shyness that prevented him from communicating with others. Susan realized that if Branden were to graduate and enter the real world, he would struggle to survive on his own. In light of this urgent situation, Susan and Yong saw that the Person Centered approach of the new SDP could help Branden achieve independence and become an active member of the community. Continue reading Supporting Branden Through the Self Determination Program (SDP)

Serving the Seniors at Fremont Age Well Center

FCSN Gala: Client Story 1
We go to the City of Fremont Age Well Center to volunteer every Wednesday. Ms. Cathy drives us there so we can work.ย When we get there, the first thing we do is to wash our hands by using hand soap, dry our hands with a towel, and then we put gloves on.ย  Once we are done with basic hygiene, we start to work! We would pick a table to work on, then move to another one. However, we also help each other when needed.ย  Continue reading Serving the Seniors at Fremont Age Well Center

Food and Nutrition Series: Jia and Aliceโ€™s Gluten-Free Journeyย 

Food and Nutrition Series #5
A food intolerance is caused by oneโ€™s body not being able to digest a certain food or an ingredient in the food. For this edition of the Food and Nutrition Series, FCSN parent Jia shared the challenges her daughter Alice faced as a result of gluten intolerance and their journey together in order to manage this condition. Providing inspiration for other families dealing with a similar situation, this article presents the story of a mother’s determination to help her daughter and advice that she would share with the community.ย ย  Continue reading Food and Nutrition Series: Jia and Aliceโ€™s Gluten-Free Journeyย 

SN Tutoring Program Spotlight: Alison Ding and Ms. Liu

SN Tutoring Program Spotlight #1
Parent Ms. Liu recently thanked Tutor Alison Ding for her sharp insight, patience, and open-mindedness while teaching. โ€œAlison 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!โ€ Continue reading SN Tutoring Program Spotlight: Alison Ding and Ms. Liu

FCSNโ€™s Milestone- 3-Year CARF Accreditation

When FCSNโ€™s Supported Employment Program was certified by DOR (Department of Rehabilitation) in late 2017, we were informed that we needed to receive The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) Accreditation by the 5th year. At that time, three years before, we had to start preparing for accreditation, which we didnโ€™t think would be daunting. We just went through a certification process, so how difficult could it be? Read more on FCSN’s journey on completing their first CARF accreditation review. Continue reading FCSNโ€™s Milestone- 3-Year CARF Accreditation