Category: Independence

An Autistic College Student's Journey to Independence: Holt's Success at MICC

4/17/2024

For autistic adults seeking independence, the path can be challenging, but MICC offers a supportive neurodiverse environment that helps them thrive. In a recent episode of "Today's Autistic Moment," hosted by Philip King-Lowe, Holt M., a graduating senior at MICC, shared his journey through MICC College and how MICC has shaped his transition into adulthood.

Holt is an MICC Ambassador, pictured here at a recent MICC Admissions Preview Days event. Back row, left to right: Ryan, Holt, Nick, Taylor; Front row, left to right: Lyndsey, Ann

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Empowering Voices: MICC Ambassadors at March R-DAP Meeting

3/28/2024

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March 7, 2024 - Richfield, MN

In a significant stride toward inclusivity and understanding, the MICC participant ambassadors recently had the opportunity to engage with key local leaders at a gathering organized by the Richfield Disability Advocacy Partnership (R-DAP). The event, held at Richfield public schools and orchestrated by Judy Moe of R-DAP, was an important opportunity for MICC participants to engage in local community engagement and advocacy.

The MICC Admissions Ambassador elective offers College juniors, seniors, and graduates to assist the Admissions team. Ambassadors play a crucial role in showcasing MICC to prospective participants and their families by conducting tours, helping at on-campus events, and representing MICC at resource and local community events. Additionally, the elective includes weekly classes where Ambassadors hone their communication skills and professionalism, and deepen their understanding of MICC’s programs, operations, and history.

At this meeting, MICC Ambassadors were active participants. They had the unique chance to directly interact with influential figures such as Senator Melissa H. Wikland (51, DFL), Representative Michael Howard (51A, DFL), Commissioner Debbie Goettel (District 5), and Richfield Mayor Mary Supple. This interaction was a platform for real dialogue where MICC Ambassadors could voice the concerns and questions that matter most to them and the broader community.

The questions posed by MICC Ambassadors reflected deep-seated concerns on topics like transportation, affordable housing, and access to after-school programs. Highlighting the session was Nick G., College junior, who passionately discussed the inclusion of students with special education needs, emphasizing the importance of mainstreaming and adapted instruction. Similarly, Eric S., College senior, raised critical points on the safety and reliability of the Richfield metro transit system, echoing the sentiments of many in our community who rely on public transportation.

The meeting was a testament to the power of community advocacy. For instance, Maggie T., MICC Community and Careers participant, revisited the issue brought up at an earlier meeting of pedestrian safety at the nearby Target, illustrating the ongoing challenges despite previous interventions. The discussion extended to attendees of the meeting regarding to pedestrian safety and the accessibility of public spaces, resonating with many, including those who navigate our streets and public facilities with disabilities.

"MICC Ambassadors were proud to have advocated for themselves and were clearly very passionate and excited about doing so," shared Casey Conaway, the MICC staff who teaches the elective. "They couldn't stop telling everyone about being at the meeting and meeting local representatives. They put their names on the communication list, and Eric S. even attended the next R-DAP meeting."

This event underscored the importance of self-advocacy and community engagement. MICC Ambassadors, through their questions and stories, represented MICC and also advocated for the broader community's needs and rights. Their involvement in R-DAP’s meeting is an incredible example of how informed, passionate advocacy can drive change and foster a more inclusive society.

As we continue to engage with our community and policymakers, we carry forward the message that autistic and neurodivergent voices matters, and collective advocacy can lead to meaningful change. We're proud of MICC Ambassadors for leading the way and inspiring us all to advocate for a more inclusive and accessible world.

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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February Participants of the Month

2/29/2024

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MICC's Participants of the Month are awarded by nominations from both peers and staff for individuals who have clearly demonstrated one or more of our three R’s: responsibility, resilience, and respect.

Read more about Holt and Kari, this month's winners.

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MICC on 106.1 BOB FM

2/7/2024

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Amy Gudmestad, MICC's CEO, had an excellent discussion with Nurse Kelly of Friesen Holistic Services and 106.1 BOB FM’s Neil Freeman about MICC and our College, Careers, and Summer Programs. Amy and Kelly discussed why MICC is needed now more than ever to help autistic adults create their own independent lives:

1 in 34 children in Minnesota diagnosed with autism.
100,000 neurodiverse children in Minnesota are aging out of school services.
87% of autistic adults live with their parents or caregivers.

MICC stands at the forefront of addressing this need, offering a lifeline to autistic adults aspiring to carve out their own paths in life. By focusing on real-world skills, MICC equips students with the tools necessary for success in both their personal and professional lives, challenging the status quo for neurodivergent adults. As Kelly shares, "Autism doesn't end at graduation." She knows first-hand the importance of support after high school - her son, Michael, is a proud MICC College graduate who is living an independent life!

Our thanks to Neil for providing the platform and engaging us with thoughtful questions, to Kelly for extending the invitation and sharing her son's journey with MICC, and to the listeners of BOB Country for tuning in and supporting our cause. Your interest and support play a crucial role in our mission to empower autistic individuals towards independence!

Listen to the recording here (10 minutes):

Minnesota Independence College and Community (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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October Participants of the Month

10/23/2023

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Participant of the Month is awarded by nominations from both peers and staff for individuals who have clearly demonstrated one or more of our three R’s: responsibility, resilience, and respect.

Read more about Mirit and Hailey who have been chosen as participants of the month for October.

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An Autistic College Student's Journey to Independence: Holt's Success at MICC

Empowering Voices: MICC Ambassadors at March R-DAP Meeting

February Participants of the Month

MICC on 106.1 BOB FM

October Participants of the Month

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