Resource Readiness - MICC (Minnesota Independence College and Community)

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let's talk resource readiness

We are here to help prepare and connect you with the resources that will ensure your success at MICC.

MICC knows independence can be taught through skill-, resource- and relationship-building. Choosing MICC is an investment in your future, providing you with the tools to build the life you want to live. Whether it’s leaving your family home or training for a new career, we want to make sure you get the most out of your MICC experience. So, let’s talk resource readiness!

“Hopefully, when we have a chance to meet, you will be comforted by the fact that I am a "people person" first and foremost. I completely understand that most people are not data/finance geeks and that these topics can often cause anxiety. We'll help you through it!”
— Aaron Carper, Director of Program Finance & Analysis (See Aaron's Bio)

What is Resource Readiness?

Resource readiness is having a plan for how you will make the most out of your investment in MICC. When we say investment, we don’t just mean financially, but mentally and emotionally as well.

MICC is here to help as you begin developing your resource readiness plan! Here are some things to consider before you begin:

Are you committed to your chosen MICC program? For College that means living outside your family home. For Career Confidence, it means working on your career skills. For Connect, it means engaging with others and learning new social skills. MICC is an amazing place, and we want you to really want to be here. We hope you do, too, and that you have the backing of your family, friends and support network.
If you’re a parent/guardian, are you ready to take a step back and allow your emerging adult to make their own choices? It’s a big step and we want you to know that MICC has resources for you, too. See Family Role.
Do you have your own emotional regulation strategies and coping skills to work and live independently? This is a growth area for every young adult, but it’s important to have internal resources when going through a significant life change, such as living or working in a new place.
Do you have a support network, counselor, outside mental health resources, etc.? No one does this journey alone and we want to make sure you have the support you need for this important work!
Do you have a plan for how you will pay for your chosen MICC program? (See the approximate cost on each program’s Admission page). Check out our Financial Readiness section below.

What is the best way to know if you’re ready for MICC? We recommend Scheduling a Tour. An Admissions specialist and often a MICC participant ambassador conduct our tours. It’s a great way to learn about our programs and begin the Admissions conversation. Can you see yourself at MICC? Is it the right fit for you? A tour is a great place to start.

what about financial readiness?

One of the important parts of the resource readiness conversation is finances. Many MICC families develop a plan that is a mix of private pay and third-party funding sources:

All MICC program costs, financial assistance and other financial details are outlined on each Admissions page. It is important to note that MICC is an accredited life- and career-skill program, not an academic institution (visit our Programs).
While federal student aid (FAFSA) cannot be utilized for MICC program fees, the direct costs for courses and supports may be substantially lessened through a variety of other federal, state and county funding sources (the College program does offer needs-based financial assistance. Details are at College Admissions).
These sources are typically based on where you live and your disability status. For example, the majority of MICC participants use some waiver funding (in Minnesota, the consumer-directed community support (CDCS) option, and in Wisconsin, Include, Respect, I Self-Direct (IRIS).
Becoming eligible for these programs takes time — sometimes 6 months to 1 year — so if you have not begun that process we recommend contacting your local county agency to get started. To learn more, visit disabilityhubmn.org.
MICC often hosts information sessions related to county, state and federal resources for which participants might be eligible. See Admission Events.
If you are a program manager, social worker or support planner who thinks MICC may be a good fit for one or more of your clients, contact Financial Services at (612) 326-5951 or financialservices@micc.org for additional information on our curriculum and staff qualifications.