Welcome back! I hope your seat is still warm, because today, we’re gonna be uncovering the cold shoulders of truth! That’s right, we’re gonna be covering the most difficult topic of them all:

Socializing…

Now, before you run for your blankets and cover your face with your hands, let me make myself clear: This is gonna be about how to make such a task easier; and not meant to add complexity and difficulties to the already stressful task of talking. I would like to start us off with what is kicking us to today’s topic, that being a recent letter I’ve been bestowed. It reads:

First, let’s give a big clap to this individual for speaking out about the issue no one else will. The bravery and tenacity to bring up such a topic is far more than what I have to do! With such a wonderful question, it’s going to be a challenge to come up with an equally wonderful answer, but I think I know how to help.

Instead of fancy metaphors or serving scoops of philosophical banter, I’m gonna give you the solid truth: When we first enter our little MICC world, we’re going to be starting at ground zero. Unless you’re coming in here with a big group, you’re not going to know many people, and they’re not going to know you. When someone is in this position, what is something that helps make connections and elevates the individual? That’s right, conversations!

If we think of conversation topics like different tiers, you have the first tier, being simple questions and pleasant introductions (i.e. “Hello, how are you doing?” or “Crazy weather lately, huh?”), and higher tiers can focus on shared experiences or interests (i.e. “Wow remember what Bert did last week?” or “Hey check out this kickass D&D Character I made last night.”). The tiers themselves are going to be different with each person, but the first tier will always be the same, since that’s where everyone starts! As you make connections and experiences with someone, you’ll slowly notice the tier rising, and you can stray away from the simple questions (if you want), and get right into the gritty fun stuff.

Oh, I guess I showcased another metaphor afterall. Well, that’s what happens when you’re given such an open and difficult question.

If you need to leave reading this with learning only one thing, have it be this: Your creativity is a powerful tool in creating positive connections and experiences. Combining that with patience and empathy will bring you a long, long way.

If this topic has been of interest to you, let me know if I should continue this! Otherwise, feel free to send another question and I’ll get right on it. Or, well, within my weekly schedule…

Until next time, friends of MICC!

Minnesota Independence College and Community is a 501(c)3 nonprofit vocational and life skills training program for young adults with autism and learning differences. Since our founding in 1996, MICC has remained dedicated to helping participants make successful transitions towards independent living and self-sufficiency.

Hello again, friends! I’m glad you’re here, because I have some exciting news to share!

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been busy with a recent development project within Metaphor Meadows! You remember that little place, right? Well, I’m happy to share that I’ve constructed a little building within the center plains of the area.

You might be thinking, “Wow, that’s a little intrusive, isn’t it?” And you’d be absolutely right if I hadn’t discovered that this entire little field… is completely barren! All forms of sentience just refuse to enter here and will make unnecessary detours to reach their destination. So, at that point, what’s a spontaneously erected office establishment going to do for the people in and out of the meadows?

The answer is a lot, because this is not just any ordinary building, this is the home of the Taleing Tall Terrace, featuring the owner of the hour, Madeline, the Mentone Mentour!

Here’s how it works: Anybody can use the submission box to ask any questions or concerns they have about what’s going on in their life: be it little pet peeves or long-term problems they wish to overcome. From there, I will view these, and publicly give advice from the perspective of the meadows! Worried that you can’t make it in person? No problem; recent technological advancements have allowed a Google forum to appear below all posts and pieces I publish! It’s as simple as a name, your question/concern, and submitting!

However, let me iterate some important notes before you click below and type something:

1. I am not a licensed psychiatrist, therapist, or hold any master’s degree level of training. This is only meant to be a safe venue to let your worries be written, and to have a voice come back and support you.
2. Your name will not be public. There’s no intention to release personal information through this. If you feel as if you’re in a situation that calls for that kind of action, I suggest contacting local authorities instead.
3. Your content is not guaranteed to appear in a post, but is still highly encouraged. There isn’t much I’m willing to avoid, but try to keep content around a PG-13 level.
4. The subject matter is limitless (provided it’s public-appropriate). Talk to me about sports, the weather, food, animals, habits… almost anything. 
5. Lastly, I can only see your submissions through the Google forum. Leaving comments on the website or social media will not allow me to answer what’s on your mind. These carrier pigeons only know one thing, and it’s Google. If you try explaining something like Facebook or LinkedIn to them, they’d probably explode.

Remember, your submissions are going to be reviewed and displayed to a public audience. If you imagine talking with a friend you see infrequently, then you should have the general idea of privacy levels.

With all of that said, I look forward to hearing all of your thoughts and questions!

Until next time, where i’ll return with some press from the Taleing Tall Terrace express (a train isn’t until a few years down the road, so you’ll have to deal with hand gestures for now).

On Monday, June 5, 2023, participants from MICC had the opportunity to attend the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Clinic held at the beautiful Windsong Farms Golf Club. This clinic focuses on teaching golf to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using evidence-based practices. Throughout the day, participants engaged in various golf activities while also practicing important skills such as communication, emotional regulation, motor skills, and social interactions. The clinic was conducted in collaboration with First Tee Minnesota instructors, who provided guidance and support to each participant, regardless of their prior golf experience.
 
Golf Skills and Friendly Competition
MICC participants arrived at the clinic with different levels of golf experience. Under the guidance of the First Tee instructors, they spent an hour learning about the game and developing their golf skills. One of the highlights was a friendly putt off, where participants challenged each other to showcase their putting abilities. Ben Lentz, MICC's Director of Advancement, observed the challenge, noting, "The competition was intense at times, but when someone drained a long put, they all celebrated with high fives and joyful chants. The First Tee instructors provided just enough guidance to let them explore on their own while encouraging everyone to develop skills." The clinic ended with a lucky draw, and MICC Community participant Signe went home as the lucky winner, receiving a new set of golf clubs!
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Celebrating Connection
Following the clinic, MICC participants joined the golfers who had taken part in the Els for Autism Golf Challenge regional event for dinner at the clubhouse. During the event, MICC had the opportunity to present their mission and programs for autistic adults to the guests. The event organizer, Olivia Butler, also shared the impact of the Els for Autism Golf Challenge over the years. This initiative has raised over $33 million to support their global efforts in providing services and building partnerships to improve the lives of people with autism and their caregivers.

A Valued Recommendation
MICC's participation in the #GameON Autism Golf Clinic was made possible through a recommendation by Dr. Cindy Nollette, MICC National Advisory Board member, to the Els of Autism Foundation. Dr. Nollette recognized the alignment between MICC's mission and the foundation's goals and submitted a referral on their behalf. MICC is grateful to have been selected as a regional participant this year and looks forward to continuing our partnership with the Els for Autism Foundation in the future.

The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Clinic at Windsong Farms Golf Club provided MICC participants with a day of learning and enjoyment. Through the guidance of First Tee instructors, they had the opportunity to improve their golf skills while also developing important life skills. The clinic's emphasis on communication, emotional regulation, motor skills, and social interactions ensured a well-rounded experience. Additionally, MICC's participation in the clinic allowed them to connect with others who share a passion for supporting individuals with autism. The collaboration between MICC, the Els for Autism Foundation, and First Tee showcases the power of partnerships in promoting inclusivity.