Minnesota Independence College and Community: Learn Skills. Experience Life.
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The 2023 Summer Program application is open!

Introduction

MICC's 2022 Summer Program helps neurodiverse young adults to develop valuable introductory independence skills. Taking the best of what MICC provides and incorporating a dynamic mix of expert staff from MICC’s comprehensive College, Careers, and Social Engagement Programs ensures a fantastic summer opportunity.

We are excited to continue to offer an expanded age range to offer more participants the opportunity to gain independence skills in on-site, daily programming. Summer Program is broken into two, separate weeks, each crafted specifically for young adults ages 16-18 and 18-23 to gain introductory independence skills. There is no overnight component.
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Participants will connect and engage through a diverse mix of individual and small group modules. Engaging and educational sessions will be provided in the areas of:
  • Job Seeking Skills 
  • Career Exploration through guest speakers and interest inventories
  • Social Skills Development and Fun Activities
  • Practicing Independent Living Skills
  • Healthy Habits and Wellness Routines

Program Overview

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Spend your summer with Minnesota Independence College and Community (MICC) and Learn Skills. Experience Life.
 
This year’s Summer Program (SP) will be one-week of daily programming. MICC provides SP participants with a taste of independence supported by our instructors. MICC's experienced and diverse staff come from a variety of backgrounds supporting health and wellness, social skills, and vocational experience.
 
Participants will:
  • Gain and practice social skills.
  • Practice general self and community safety skills.
  • Explore a variety of industries through tours and speaking to professionals.
  • Learn appropriate conversation topics in different settings.
  • Be introduced to basic independent living skills, including cooking.
  • Create lasting friendships.

Careers Experience 
Students will be introduced to MICC's Careers Program curriculum, connecting career exploration and job-seeking skills through a variety of activities and settings, utilizing a combination of teaching methods in the process. Classes will include an exploration of job-seeking skills and an introduction to each of MICC’s four certificate programs: Culinary, Hospitality, Health Services, and Retail. Students will create a resume, a sample cover letter, participate in a mock interview, and develop a vocational plan for future employment goals. Additional topics include self-advocacy skills, workplace health and wellness and interpersonal skills.

Social Programming ​
Social skills classes and electives programming foster positive peer connections around common interests and hobbies. Social skills lessons will focus on social awareness, communication, self-regulation, self-awareness, and decision-making. These skills are discussed and put into practice in the hobby-based activities of their choosing.
 
Independent Living 
Independent living skills curriculum will help students develop strategies for completing daily living tasks through a balance of independent and structured support. Holistic health classes will focus on topics such as healthy food choices, time management, and organization. Additionally, staff will target an overall well-being with a balance of diet, fitness, personal hygiene, and stress management.
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MICC is committed to taking a person-centered approach to programming to help students discover their full potential and to build a vibrant community. At the end of our Summer Program, participants and families receive a comprehensive report celebrating victories and providing insight on opportunities for growth.

Session Dates and Cost

Session I: June 12-16, 2023 | Ages 18-23
Cost: $1,350


Session II: June 20-23, 2023 | Ages 16-18
Cost: ​$1,100


Cost includes curriculum and instruction, daily lunch, transportation during the program, and activities. If you are coming from out of the MSP area and would like resources for local lodging, please contact us ASAP. Transportation to and from MICC campus is not included.

At this time, MICC does not offer financial assistance for the Summer Program. Families with state or county funding may be able to utilize those resources to offset Summer Program costs.

Admissions Criteria

Requirements include:
  • A diagnosed learning disability, executive dysfunction, autism spectrum disorder,  ADHD/ADD, or other neurological condition. Most applicants will have a range of cognitive and processing abilities.
  • No significant behavior or emotional dysregulation.
  • Responds well to a structured and supported environment.
  • Between the ages of 16-23 depending on session.
  • ​A Full Scale IQ of 70 or above.

A successful candidate must…
  • Be excited to be a part of MICC programming and have a general buy-in.
  • Be able to make independent, safe decisions and not require 24-hour supervision. MICC is not a therapeutic or psychiatric program; and will not be a good fit for participants who experience significant emotional and behavioral challenges.
  • Be developmentally ready to participate in a comprehensive apartment-living and community-based program. Applicant responds well to a structured and supported environment.
  • Have evidence of their ability to navigate day-to-day activities (school, volunteering, work, etc.) without 1:1 support.
  • Demonstrate emotional and behavioral stability sufficient to live independently, function socially, and participate fully in programming

Program Application

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Complete the MICC College Program Admissions Application online.​​ To get started, click the link or button below and then click "Register" to create an account to the admissions application portal.

Required Application Materials
  • $100 application fee
  • Recent transcript (unofficial)
  • Recent IEP
  • Two (2) recommendations
    References should complete the MICC recommendation form, we do accept letters of recommendation. References should be completed by a vocational professional, such as a supervisor, job coach, etc.; an educational professional, such as a teacher, instructor, school administrator, etc.; or a general professional, such as a case manager, therapist, doctor, etc. The recommendation form should be submitted directly by the professional. Submitted references will automatically be attached to the application.

Optional Application Materials
  • Recent neuropsychological evaluation
  • Relevant health records
Register and Apply Online

Questions or concerns? Please don't hesitate to connect. We're happy to help!
Contact Admissions

FAQ

What type of supervision is provided?
Each student will be part of a small group led by an MICC Instructor. Students are expected to adhere to the attendance requirements and rules regarding their safety, anti-bullying, and anti-harassment
What if I am unable to commute daily to MICC?
We recognize and understand that day programming will be limiting to families outside of the metro area and out of state. Typically, Summer Program has been an accessible option to help teens/young adults safely trial being away from home and experience independence within an apartment setting. This year, we want to return to providing a quality experiential, in-person experience, while also keeping participants and staff safe. For families able to do so, staying nearby with friends/family or securing hotel/rental accommodations is an option.
What can families and students expect to receive at the end of the program?
Students will receive an evaluation completed by MICC staff which addresses the progress they made in the areas of social, vocational, and independent living skills. This evaluation may also include suggestions of strategies and recommendations that students can utilize at home/school/work to further their skills. Students will also receive a certificate of completion and a copy of their vocational plan, healthy lifestyle plan, and an employment portfolio that includes a resume, a sample cover letter, references, and interview prep resources. 
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7501 LOGAN AVE S.  STE 2A   RICHFIELD, MN 55423 
PHONE (612) 869-4008 | FAX (612) 869-0443 | EIN 41-1814112

Effective, August 1, 2018, Minnesota Life College changed its name to MICC., pronounced ‘em’ ‘eye’ ‘see’ ‘see’.
​MICC stands for Minnesota Independence College and Community.


At MICC, the values of diversity, equity and inclusion are essential elements of our vibrant learning community. It is vital that everyone receives the tools to succeed and thrive regardless of neurodiversity, race, ethnicity, nationality, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status or any other identity. We are committed to embracing diverse perspectives and creating a supportive environment for all to discuss, challenge, and explore how we can continuously enrich the MICC community.