Thank you to the 30 participants who attended MICC's 2023 Summer Programs in June! It was a great time making friends, exploring the local community, and exploring various vocational opportunities.
Details for next year's program will be updated in January 2024 along with the application. Don't miss out on announcements - join Admissions' email list.
Details for next year's program will be updated in January 2024 along with the application. Don't miss out on announcements - join Admissions' email list.
Introduction
MICC's 2023 Summer Program is designed to help neurodiverse young adults learn important independent living skills. The program will be run by experienced staff from MICC's College, Careers, and Social Engagement Programs, providing a unique opportunity for participants.
Participants will engage in individual and small group activities, including:
There is no overnight component, and the program will take place on-site daily.
Participants will engage in individual and small group activities, including:
- job seeking skills,
- career exploration,
- social skills development,
- independent living skills, and
- healthy habits and wellness routines.
There is no overnight component, and the program will take place on-site daily.
Program Overview
Get ready for an exciting and fulfilling summer experience with Minnesota Independence College and Community (MICC)! The Summer Program is a week of daily activities where you'll learn new skills and experience independent living with the support of friendly instructors.
Participants will...
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.
At MICC, we believe in helping you reach your full potential and building a vibrant community. At the end of the program, you'll receive a report celebrating your accomplishments and giving you insights on how you can continue to grow. So join us for an unforgettable summer of learning, fun, and friendship!
Participants will...
- make new friends and develop social skills
- learn how to stay safe and take care of yourself
- explore different careers through tours and speaking to professionals
- cook up some tasty dishes
- try out different hobbies and interests in fun social activities
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.
At MICC, we believe in helping you reach your full potential and building a vibrant community. At the end of the program, you'll receive a report celebrating your accomplishments and giving you insights on how you can continue to grow. So join us for an unforgettable summer of learning, fun, and friendship!
Session Dates and Cost
FULL Session I: June 12-16, 2023 | Ages 18-23
Cost: $1,350
FULL 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. 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.
Cost: $1,350
FULL 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. 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 successful candidate must…
- 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
Required Application Materials
Optional Application Materials
- $100 application fee
- Recent transcript (unofficial)
- Recent IEP
- Two (2) recommendations
References should complete the MICC recommendation form. 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. - Relevant health records
Optional Application Materials
- Recent neuropsychological evaluation
Questions or concerns? Please don't hesitate to connect. We're happy to help!
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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