On March 28, 2026, members of the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors – San Diego (FASCA-SD) gathered at a member’s home to create 87 enrichment toys for animals at the San Diego Humane Society. This student-led initiative addressed the increasing needs of local shelters while providing participants with opportunities to develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The event also incorporated cultural education through a Qingming Festival (清明節) introduction, reinforcing FASCA’s mission of combining service, leadership, and cultural engagement.
Animal shelters across the United States continue to face high intake rates due to abandonment and stray populations, often resulting in stress and behavioral challenges for animals. These conditions can reduce adoption success, making enrichment essential to improving animal well-being. In response, FASCA students designed and assembled 87 enrichment items, including 18 octopus-shaped dog chew toys, 19 cat wands, and 50 catnip-filled fabric balls. These toys help reduce anxiety, encourage natural behaviors, and create a more engaging environment, directly contributing to improved adoption outcomes.
Students demonstrated leadership throughout the event by organizing stations, managing materials, and ensuring quality control. Each toy required careful construction to meet safety standards, prompting participants to think critically and work efficiently. Leadership was further developed through peer instruction, as students rotated between stations and taught one another new tasks. This collaborative approach minimized errors, optimized resource use, and strengthened communication. When challenges arose—such as incorrect measurements or limited materials—students adapted quickly and worked together to implement effective solutions, demonstrating resilience and accountability.
“This experience taught me how to stay focused and work with others to solve problems,” shared FASCA member Erika Shih. “I’m glad we were able to create something meaningful that helps animals in need.”
In addition to service, the event emphasized cultural learning. FASCA mentor Marian Liu introduced the significance of Qingming Festival, highlighting traditions such as honoring ancestors and family remembrance. Members also enjoyed 潤餅 (spring rolls), thoughtfully prepared by FASCA parent Ling Chan, creating a meaningful connection between cultural heritage and community bonding.
At the conclusion of the event, project leaders presented future initiatives, proposing on-site service at animal shelters, including dog walking, facility support, and adoption promotion. They also discussed raising awareness about overcrowded animal shelters in Taiwan, encouraging students to explore future projects with broader global impact.
Beyond supporting shelter animals, the event provided students with hands-on leadership experience, strengthening their ability to execute tasks, collaborate effectively, and respond to real-world challenges. Through initiatives like this, FASCA San Diego empowers youth to address community needs while demonstrating how service-driven leadership creates lasting impact.
Reported by: Katie Ger, FASCA SD PR Team Member
About FASCA-SD
The Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors – San Diego (FASCA-SD) empowers Taiwanese American youth to develop leadership skills, promote cultural exchange, and serve their local communities through educational initiatives and community outreach.
Learn more and follow us:
●Website: https://www.fascasandiego.com/
●Instagram: @fasca_sandiego
●Facebook: fasca.sandiego
