An Exercise in Exercise – Muay Thai Kickboxing Class

A parent to two special needs children, Mr. Kanit Therdsteerasukdi has been volunteering at FCSN through his Muay Thai Kickboxing classes. He was inspired to start his Muay Thai Kickboxing class after he had his second child and he and his wife were too busy taking care of their children to attend regular volunteering events. Fortunately for him, FCSN Co-President CK Lee approached him with an idea to solve his dilemma: start a class at FCSN so he can simultaneously volunteer and watch over his son. Kanit came up with the idea of starting a Muay Thai Kickboxing class to give children a chance to do something they probably never would have tried without his help… Continue reading An Exercise in Exercise – Muay Thai Kickboxing Class

Introduction to the Twinkle Project

One day, I passed by Jeffrey, a non-verbal autistic young man, at the day program. He was deeply engrossed in his favorite activity: completing puzzles. As I observed him, I noticed the sparkle in his eyes as he carefully examined each piece with intense focus and excitement. Piece by piece, he skillfully placed them on the board, completing a 200-piece puzzle with astonishing precision… Continue reading Introduction to the Twinkle Project

Behind-the-scenes operations from FCSNโ€™s Supporting Department

Although people are often unfamiliar with the details of their contributions, behind the scenes, the supporting department works tirelessly as the backbone for Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN). This team plays a crucial role in sustaining the nonprofitโ€™s complex operations, working closely with numerous departments in FCSN and taking on significant administrative and managerial responsibilities. Chief Financial Officer Lilian H. Lin, Director of Finance and Administration Judy Yi, and other team members are dedicated to maintaining a strong foundation for FCSN… Continue reading Behind-the-scenes operations from FCSNโ€™s Supporting Department

Interview with Cadence Lee: Experiences and Growth as FCSNโ€™s CFS Intern

First introduced by her brother to summer internship opportunities advertised in FCSNโ€™s newsletter, Coordinated Family Support (CFS) intern Cadence Lee has made long-lasting contributions to FCSNโ€™s financial and organizational management. After Cadence learned about the internship’s availability, she applied for a position in the CFS program and Finance Department. Subsequently, she completed the interview round and was offered a position in the CFS program, which she gladly accepted. โ€œIโ€™ve always been passionate about helping in the community, and [the] CFS intern position aligns with my values in community involvement,โ€ Cadence said… Continue reading Interview with Cadence Lee: Experiences and Growth as FCSNโ€™s CFS Intern

Disability Resource Festival 2024

On September 22, 2024, the Fremont Downtown Event Center was transformed into a bustling hub of activities as it hosted the 3rd Annual Disability Resource Festival. Organized by the City of Fremont Human Relations Commission in partnership with the Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN), this remarkable event aimed to foster a more inclusive and informed community… Continue reading Disability Resource Festival 2024

FCSN Gala 2024: Fulfilling the Dream

From 4:30-8:30 p.m. on November 3, FCSN hosted the annual FCSN Gala at the Grand Dynasty Chinese Seafood Restaurant. Events included speeches from organizers and board members, musical performances, and finally a raffle with grand prizes including an iPhone, gift cards, and round trip tickets to Taiwan. Themed โ€œExpand Our Dream,โ€ this yearโ€™s gala focused on fundraising to create new programs at the newly constructed Osgood Center and to expandย  current services for the community. Co-chair and board member Jason Hwan applauded last yearโ€™s achievements and emphasized this yearโ€™s goalย  to fully integrate the Osgood Center. โ€œThis year is special because last yearโ€™s focus was to make the third center happen and it did โ€ฆ We will continue what we have established, putting focus on recruiting more staff, and developing new programs to accommodate and serve more clients,โ€ Hwan said. Continue reading FCSN Gala 2024: Fulfilling the Dream

FCSN Celebrates the Spirit of Fall at the FCSN Chi Am Fall Festival

A small but lively auditorium at the FCSN Fremont Osgood Center was brimming with the festive spirit of fall. The sounds of music and laughter filled the air and a quick glance around the room would reveal a variety of fun fall activities managed by adult and student volunteers. On October 5th at 9:00 AM, forty special needs individuals were gathered here to enjoy the many delights of the pumpkin spice season. Hosted by FCSN and Chi Am Circle, the yearly Chi Am Fall Festival brings together a community to celebrate a season of harvest and happiness… Continue reading FCSN Celebrates the Spirit of Fall at the FCSN Chi Am Fall Festival

CFS Program Pamphlet

FCSN is the CFS (Coordinated Family Support) service provider with SARC and RCEB and has started receiving referrals since February 2024. We are so excited to be able to provide this new service to the individuals and their families in need to carry on FCSNโ€™s mission and vision. Continue reading CFS Program Pamphlet

FCSN Annual Drama Production: Super Mario Bros with a Twist

On July 13th, FCSN showcased their production of “Super Mario Bros with a Twist” at their annual Summer Drama Camp, held from July 10 to July 12 at the FCSN Fremont Center. The camp allowed participants to engage in auditions, act in diverse roles, and collaborate with others, including other participants and student volunteers. This year’s camp reimagined the classic Super Mario narrative, adding unique elements that transformed the familiar movie into a live-action performance. Continue reading FCSN Annual Drama Production: Super Mario Bros with a Twist