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 stepping stone 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.
- Amy Gudmestad, event co-emcee and MICC CEO, 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.”
- Graham W., a 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.”
- 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.”
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.