Who We Are
Minnesota Independence College and Community (MICC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit vocational and life skills training program for autistic and neurodivergent young adults. Since our founding in 1996, MICC has remained dedicated to helping our participants make successful transitions towards independent living and self-sufficiency.
At MICC, we believe that learning about life first-hand within a supportive community in a vibrant city is the best way to gain independence. We do this first by offering an apartment living College Program that teaches important life, social, and vocational skills. Then, through our unique Community Program, we continue to offer our participants lifelong supports through our programs in social engagement, emotional support, safety, wellness, independent living skills, and careers.
Using our curriculum, our participants learn in their apartments on campus, at the grocery store, in the workplace, at restaurants, and on public transportation—any practical environment where life skills are needed. Having learned the skills to open doors previously closed to them, the future of our participants is limitless. We are not simply a three-year experience; we are a lifelong partner.
Our programs attract a nationally diverse participant body in Richfield, Minnesota (a first-ring Minneapolis/St. Paul suburb).
At MICC, we believe that learning about life first-hand within a supportive community in a vibrant city is the best way to gain independence. We do this first by offering an apartment living College Program that teaches important life, social, and vocational skills. Then, through our unique Community Program, we continue to offer our participants lifelong supports through our programs in social engagement, emotional support, safety, wellness, independent living skills, and careers.
Using our curriculum, our participants learn in their apartments on campus, at the grocery store, in the workplace, at restaurants, and on public transportation—any practical environment where life skills are needed. Having learned the skills to open doors previously closed to them, the future of our participants is limitless. We are not simply a three-year experience; we are a lifelong partner.
Our programs attract a nationally diverse participant body in Richfield, Minnesota (a first-ring Minneapolis/St. Paul suburb).
Our Mission, Vision and Truths
We educate individuals with MICC curriculum, so they may learn skills and experience life. MICC participants achieve sustained, independent living; rewarding employment; financial security; personal growth; and responsible citizenship. We adapt, evaluate, and continuously improve our methods, recognizing and valuing each individual’s skills, contributions, and dreams.
We champion all participants, carry their successes into the world, and collaborate with others in service of our vision.
We champion all participants, carry their successes into the world, and collaborate with others in service of our vision.
Our MissionEvery day we work to transform the lives of individuals and families affected by autism spectrum and learning differences. Our VisionA world where individuals on the autism spectrum and those with learning differences thrive and are valued. |
Our TruthsEveryone is different. Students experience personal growth when they are offered unique and individualized programs, because no two individuals have the exact same needs. People learn best by doing. Academic instruction is not enough. By living in on-site apartments, and experiencing all that the city has to offer, people are better equipped to live independently. Vocation leads to independence. The ability to get and keep a job is one of the single most important factors to be able to live independently. Cliffs are inevitable without life-long engagement. Adults with ASD and/or learning differences face challenges throughout their lifetime and need access to a variety of support services in order to live a fulfilling, independent life. Social beings need a social life. People gain self-awareness, confidence and self-esteem when they can experience acceptance and develop friendships. |
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Our Community
The Twin Cities metro area of Minneapolis and St. Paul is home to major sports league teams, museums, and has one of the most vibrant theater and fine arts communities in the nation. Four distinct climate seasons provide a number of choices in outdoor entertainment and cultural activities, and both the state and the metro area regularly turn up on Best Places to Live surveys.
Annual ReportsWe are committed to providing measurable outcomes for our programs and services, honoring our donors and supporters, and working to improve year over year.
Learn more about our programs, our results, and our community by reading our annual reports. |
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