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A Uniquely Minnesota Event: MICC's 21st Annual Gala

3/23/2024

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This year, MICC's 21st Annual Gala, themed 'Uniquely Minnesota,' not only celebrated the extraordinary talents within our community but also embraced the essence of our beloved home state.
 
On Saturday, March 9, 2024, The Depot in Minneapolis was alive with the spirit of inclusivity and achievement, bringing together a total of over 750 friends – with more than 650 joining us in-person making it our largest gala gathering since 2019!
Event Highlights
  • We exceeded our fundraising goal, raising $625,000! These funds are a steppingstone towards expanding our programs to meet the need and solidifying our commitment to the thriving futures of neurodivergent individuals.
  • The MICC Rock Band's performance of Weird Al’s "SPAM," accompanied by an exuberant participant processional, set an electrifying tone for the evening.
  • We shared a touching video of the Up North Girls, four MICC graduates whose bond epitomizes the supportive network fostered at MICC.​
Gala Photo Booth Gallery
Amy Gudmestad, event co-emcee and MICC Chief Executive Officer, reminded us of what MICC stands for and the importance of the unique programs.
"At MICC, we believe in the potential of every individual regardless of their background or circumstances. Our work is simple: we provide comprehensive support and education to neurodivergent individuals, empowering them to lead fulfilling and independent lives." ~Amy Gudmestad, MICC CEO
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Gala Program Video
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Graham W., an MICC participant and gala co-emcee, shared his heartfelt journey, reminding us that MICC is more than a program - it’s a strong community where lives are transformed; his independence is proof of that.
"MICC has changed my life. I want to say THANK YOU to everyone in this room. All of you have made an impact on my life and my family’s life." ~Graham W., MICC participant
Gala Photo Gallery
Kurt Possai, a parent of a participant, shared his family's story about the bonds their daughter created with peers while at MICC that will have a lasting impact on each family's lives.
"By finding MICC, we found our tribe, our people, our ‘framily’ – a place where not only our young adults fit but where we do as well." ~Kurt Possai, parent of MICC participant
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'Up North Girls' Video
The sentiment was unanimous - we are a community, we are a family, we are Minnesota.

Thank you, MICC community, for bringing the essence of Minnesota to life - a place where everyone is welcome, supported, and celebrated. Here, we all have a place to call home.
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Be sure to save the date and join us next year:
Saturday, March 15, 2024
Minneapolis, MN
Until next time, stay connected and engaged with all things MICC at miccommunity.org and follow our socials @miccbulldogs.

Learn more about MICC’s "Uniquely Minnesota" programs for autistic and neurodivergent adults seeking independence.

Thank you to our event partners for an incredible evening.
AV for You
Cat Eye Design
Do Good Events
Fladeboe Advancement
Fulton Productions
Megan Stezka Photography
Mister Mustache Photo Booth
​Myrick Visual
  ​​
​OneCause
Red Mood Marketing  
  

MICC is a nonprofit post-high school vocational and life skills training program for autistic and neurodivergent adults. Since its founding in 1996, MICC has remained dedicated to helping participants make successful transitions towards independent living, self-sufficiency, and true belonging.

​Through hands-on learning, education, support, and resources, MICC participants achieve sustained, independent living, rewarding employment, financial security, personal growth and responsible citizenship. For more information about MICC, visit https://www.miccommunity.org/.

Media inquiries can be sent to [email protected].
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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.