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

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

Behind-the-scenes operations from FCSN’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 nonprofit’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 FCSN’s Supporting Department