FCSN Summer Sports Program Empowers Inclusion and Encourages Growth

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 FCSNโ€™s annual Summer Sports Program, featured basketball, badminton, and pickleball lessons… Continue reading FCSN Summer Sports Program Empowers Inclusion and Encourages Growth

2024 FCSN Outstanding Youth Volunteer: Catherine Wang

Working as a fundamental part of FCSNโ€™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

Harmony in Rhythm – Special Needs Percussion Guard Program

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

FCSNโ€™s 2024 Volunteer of the Year Recipient: Aarav Sharma

FCSNโ€™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 FCSNโ€™s 2024 Volunteer of the Year Recipient: Aarav Sharma

FCSN Outstanding Volunteer Award Recipient: Stephanie Yu

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 momโ€™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

A Growing Network: Student-Led Clubs at FCSN

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 FCSNโ€™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

Interview with Mannching Wang: An Inspiring, 26-Year Journey of a Special Needs Parent

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

Interview with Sherry Meng: Advice for Parents on Preparing Children for Employment & Starting a Business

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

Uniting Art and Community through FCSN Voices Graphic Artist Collaboration Project

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

Interview with Sherry Meng: Empowering Special Needs Employment, One Stitch at a Time

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