FCSN X The Praxeum Workshop

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

Interview with Wei-Jen Hsia: An Adult Volunteer’s Journey

Between supervising Family Gatherings, attending FCSN Voices meetups, and overseeing other efforts to help out the special needs community, adult volunteer Wei-Jen Hsia has become a vital part of FCSN’s volunteering team. Since joining in 2008, she has become a dedicated adult volunteer for numerous programs, most notably FCSN’s newsletter, FCSN Voices, and the semesterly Family Gatherings. Continue reading Interview with Wei-Jen Hsia: An Adult Volunteer’s Journey

Blue Devils Color Guard Rehearsals: Navigating Life’s Lessons for Special Needs Students

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.Β 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

A Recipe for Self-Growth: Spotlight on FCSN’s After-School Cooking Program

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

Volunteering At FCSN

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

A Journey to FCSN’s Health-Physical Therapy Class

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

The Caring Hearts Behind FCSN’s Supported Living System (SLS) Program

Behind many of FCSN’s programs are kind-hearted individuals who dedicate their lives to help those with special needs. Among these remarkable individuals is Feliza Hsu, a case manager for FCSN’s East Bay Supported Living Services (SLS) program. The mission of FCSN’s SLS program is to provide a lifestyle of choice, independence, and support for their clients, namely adults with special needs, through helping them develop personal skills as well as build financial independence by finding and maintaining a job. Continue reading The Caring Hearts Behind FCSN’s Supported Living System (SLS) Program

Interview with Cathy Yang: SEP & TDS Coordinator

Cathy Yang serves as the coordinator for two programs at FCSN: the Supported Employment Program (SEP) and Tailored Day Services (TDS) at the Fremont Center. Both initiatives are dedicated to assisting individuals with special needs in finding employment based on their skills and preferences. Come along as Cathy shares details about the programs, and their impact on clients and the greater community. Continue reading Interview with Cathy Yang: SEP & TDS Coordinator

A Look into the South Bay Adult Day Program with Annabelle Foz

Opened by FCSN in 2004, the South Bay Adult Day Program (ADP) offers adults with developmental disabilities a joyful, supportive environment that facilitates personal growth, community interaction, and a healthy, meaningful life. Annabelle Foz, the Program Manager, shares an insider’s-look into the program’s purpose and services, as well as her favorite experiences from over 12 years of involvement. Continue reading A Look into the South Bay Adult Day Program with Annabelle Foz