Amanda Loh’s Journey with FCSN Voices Graphic Artist Team

FCSN Voices’ article banners and the heading of the FCSN Voices’ website are all made by the FCSN Voices Graphic Artist Team, run completely by volunteers and led by team leaders like Amanda Loh. With the benefit of her experience and leadership skills, Amanda, along with all the other leaders, plays a huge role in the success of the FCSN Graphic Artist Team. To make banners for the articles, the graphic artists in the FCSN Graphic Artist Team get to choose from a selection of assignments. If applicable, they would be officially assigned it. Then, the Senior Graphic Artists review them and give feedback. Afterwards, the team lead, who is currently Christy Ma, reviews and sends it for publication on the FCSN Voices website… Continue reading Amanda Loh’s Journey with FCSN Voices Graphic Artist Team

FCSN X Neuroguidance Spookfest 2025

Energy buzzed in the air as staff members and volunteers hurriedly hung streamers across doorframes, covered the walls with Halloween decorations, and spread a tablecloth over activity tables to prepare for the SpookFest. Halloween is a universal celebration, a day where everyone can join in, move at their own pace, and enjoy the holiday excitement. By the time the door opened on October 18 at 4-6 p.m., the space was filled with Halloween spirit. The mix of decorations and energetic music set the tone for a genuinely welcoming event… Continue reading FCSN X Neuroguidance Spookfest 2025

Interview with FCSN Alumni: Garrett Chan

A photo of Dr. Garrett Chan

When Dr. Garrett Chan first began volunteering at Friends of Special Needs (FCSN) as a junior high school student, his goal was simple: to spend more time with his younger sister, who is on the autism spectrum. What began as a way to support her, however, quickly grew into a formative experience—one that shaped his patience, empathy, and ultimately, his decision to pursue medicine… Continue reading Interview with FCSN Alumni: Garrett Chan

2025 FCSN Volunteer Recognition Day

“Volunteers are the heartbeat of FCSN.” Director of Volunteer Support Linmei Chiao’s quote describes the goal of the FCSN Volunteer Recognition Day held on June 21: to honor and recognize the volunteers who work for the organization. From tutors to journalists, FCSN’s volunteer base is composed of countless talented and dedicated individuals who make the organization’s mission of helping special needs individuals possible… Continue reading 2025 FCSN Volunteer Recognition Day

Fishing Fun Day at Sandy Wool Lake 

On April 13, 2025, over 150 FCSN kids, family members and volunteers had a fun fishing day at Sandy Wool Lake, Ed Levin County Park. Sandy Wool Lake is a serene 14-acre reservoir located in Ed R. Levin County Park in the eastern foothills of Milpitas, California. This tranquil spot is surrounded by lush greenery. The event was organized and coordinated by Rotary Club of Almaden Valley – Willow Glen Alman, FCSN and Santa Clara County Park (SCCP). The event aimed to introduce FCSN families to the joys of fishing in a supportive and educational environment… Continue reading Fishing Fun Day at Sandy Wool Lake 

FCSN CFS Program: Personalized Support for All Families

In the US, almost 70% of all adults with special needs live at home under the care of their parents or other family caregivers according to the Special Needs Alliance. Many of these families grapple with struggles like finding accommodations for their child’s needs, hiring suitable service providers, and planning for the future. FCSN’s Coordinated Family Service (CFS) is a program that alleviates stress by providing extensive, flexible, person-to-person assistance for these families… Continue reading FCSN CFS Program: Personalized Support for All Families