On the crisp morning of Friday, October 6, 2023, the heart of the Minnesota Independence College and Community (MICC) beat in unison in Richfield, MN. The occasion was the revered Champion’s Breakfast, an annual tradition that bridges the past, present, and future of MICC's vision. With the Homecoming Weekend on the horizon, the breakfast served as a reminder of MICC’s unwavering commitment to creating a world of inclusivity and celebration.
Every year, MICC's Champion's Breakfast is more than a ceremony. It's a heartfelt tradition that underscores the values and purpose of MICC. The gathering revolves around the spirit of unity, recognition, and hope. It envisions a world where individuals on the autism spectrum and those with learning differences are not on the periphery but are central, thriving figures, recognized and valued for their unique talents and contributions.
As attendees settled into their seats, the atmosphere was electrified by the charisma of Grant S. A proud representative of MICC as a first-year Community participant, Grant’s journey to becoming a camera operator for the Neighborhood Sports Network exemplifies the mission of MICC.
Every year, MICC's Champion's Breakfast is more than a ceremony. It's a heartfelt tradition that underscores the values and purpose of MICC. The gathering revolves around the spirit of unity, recognition, and hope. It envisions a world where individuals on the autism spectrum and those with learning differences are not on the periphery but are central, thriving figures, recognized and valued for their unique talents and contributions.
As attendees settled into their seats, the atmosphere was electrified by the charisma of Grant S. A proud representative of MICC as a first-year Community participant, Grant’s journey to becoming a camera operator for the Neighborhood Sports Network exemplifies the mission of MICC.
The hall resonated with applause as champions from various sectors were spotlighted. The Minnesota History Theatre gracefully accepted the honor of nonprofit community champion, while Lunds and Byerlys shone in the corporate category. Amidst cheers and claps, Lisa Keitel was heartwarmingly celebrated for her individual contributions to the community.
Perhaps one of the most touching segments was the recognition of those marking milestones of independence. As Alexis Ries and Dominic Ficocello took the stage for their 10-year recognition, their pride was palpable. Sara Owen’s commendation for 20 years of independence was met with a booming ovation, exemplifying the very essence of MICC’s mission.
Perhaps one of the most touching segments was the recognition of those marking milestones of independence. As Alexis Ries and Dominic Ficocello took the stage for their 10-year recognition, their pride was palpable. Sara Owen’s commendation for 20 years of independence was met with a booming ovation, exemplifying the very essence of MICC’s mission.
MICC has always been powered by the generosity of its patrons. The addition of Michael Guyette, Ray Barton, and Anne and Scott Saveraid to the Hatlen Leadership Circle marked a new chapter of collaboration. Special moments of gratitude were showered upon Craig and Carrie MacLeod, whose contributions span a lifetime.
It wasn’t just external champions who were in the limelight. Amy Gudmestad, with pride in her eyes, recognized employees like Ben Lentz, Erik Hatlen, David Marcis, and Clare Schmid-DeBo for their 5-year dedication to MICC. Board members Nikki Fetter and Becca Meinz were lauded for having passionately served MICC till the end of their terms.
It wasn’t just external champions who were in the limelight. Amy Gudmestad, with pride in her eyes, recognized employees like Ben Lentz, Erik Hatlen, David Marcis, and Clare Schmid-DeBo for their 5-year dedication to MICC. Board members Nikki Fetter and Becca Meinz were lauded for having passionately served MICC till the end of their terms.
The breakfast was intimate, with about 55 attendees, each one a testament to MICC's close-knit, supportive community. Amidst the formalities, laughter, and shared memories, the collective sentiment echoed the words of Amy Gudmestad: "The strength of our community is truly inspiring." Ben Lentz added depth with his reflection, “We celebrate the incredible individuals and organizations that drive our success and illuminate our shared vision."
In essence, the MICC's Champion's Breakfast was not just an event; it was a tapestry of stories, achievements, and dreams, weaving together a brighter future of inclusivity and recognition for the autism community.
In essence, the MICC's Champion's Breakfast was not just an event; it was a tapestry of stories, achievements, and dreams, weaving together a brighter future of inclusivity and recognition for the autism community.
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.
Media inquiries can be sent to [email protected].
Media inquiries can be sent to [email protected].
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