This week, we proudly celebrate National Volunteer Week by expressing our deep gratitude for the incredible volunteers who make MICC such a vibrant and impactful community. From assisting with campus tasks to supporting events throughout the year, our volunteers are truly the backbone of what we do. Their dedication and compassion fuel our mission to empower autistic and neurodivergent adults to live the lives they want to lead.
To highlight the impact of volunteerism at MICC, we had the opportunity to connect with a few individuals who give their time and energy in meaningful ways across our organization.
Julie Rossman, a parent of one of MICC’s College program participants, shared her heartfelt connection to the organization: “I volunteer with MICC because I believe deeply in its mission, and I’m seeing firsthand how my son is growing and thriving in the community. I also love getting to know the staff and other volunteers who make this community so special.”
When asked what MICC means to her, she reflected: “MICC means so much to me! My son is attending College, living on campus, and growing in ways that make me so proud. Watching him learn lifelong skills, form friendships, and enjoy a full social life fills me with joy.”
She recently contributed her time as part of the MICC Gala auction committee, helping secure items for the silent auction. Speaking about that experience, she said: “I loved watching the gala unfold, taking part in the activities, and seeing the broader community come together to celebrate everything wonderful about MICC. I also brought guests who were new to MICC, and now they, too, recognize how extraordinary this community is.”
We have many individuals who volunteer in different capacities throughout MICC. Chris Simpson, a member of MICC’s Board of Directors, shared his perspective on both governance and hands-on involvement. He explained his motivation for joining: “I was looking for some kind of volunteer opportunity with an organization involved with young adults who are on the autism spectrum. Our youngest son, Caden, is 19 years old, and he has been diagnosed with autism. While our school system did a great job helping him graduate with his degree, we never felt that there was anything that was helping him to succeed after high school.”
Reflecting on his experience with the board, he said: “It is great working with a group of smart, talented, diverse individuals who have such a passion to help the organization, and the Leadership team, be the best they can be. There are no egos, no hidden agendas, and no signs of disrespect. Everyone’s thoughts are welcome, and appreciated, as we all strive to help MICC deliver on its mission.”
Beyond his board service, Chris volunteers on campus throughout the year, particularly for move-in days and mock interview sessions. When asked a about his volunteer experiences, he said, “the best things about the additional volunteer activities is the opportunity to directly interact with the MICC participants, who are always so appreciative for the help.”
He summed up MICC’s importance simply: “MICC is truly an organization that is dedicated to helping neurodivergent young adults gain their independence and be successful in their transition to adult life. It works, and the results are powerful.”
It is not just external volunteers who come to the MICC campus to volunteer, but we have many active MICC participants living on or near the MICC campus, who make a great impact by volunteering.
We spoke with MICC participants involved in our Participant Ambassador Program. These ambassadors play a vital role in welcoming visitors, leading campus tours, and sharing their personal stories at events and outreach opportunities.
When asked why they joined the program, ambassadors shared thoughtful and inspiring responses:
- MICC Community member, Holt, said, “I want to be in ambassadors because I like to welcome new people to places, and I wanted to be a part of this program since I heard about it the first year of my college program.”
- Gaby mentioned that she “wanted to be a part of a strong sense of community and make people feel welcome and validated the same way that people made me feel when I first came here.”
- Dinah said, “I was an ambassador in middle school and wanted to finish off where I left of in my middle school years. And I love this school so much.”
Their favorite parts of being ambassadors for MICC reflect the program’s broad impact and show how their involvement makes a great difference for MICC and how we are represented in the Twin Cities:
Ambassadors Jenna, Matt, and Dinah said they love getting the opportunity to represent MICC at the Minnesota State Capitol.
- Lyndsey said her favorite part of ambassadors is “meeting all the different families and people that we have come in for the tours and going to different places and talking about the school.”
- Dustin expressed that he enjoys “tabling events outside of Richfield and other towns to see other folks who are interested in MICC.”
- Nick mentioned that his favorite part of being an ambassador is being involved in “the MICC Gala, where we can work on raising the money for our school to have more people come in and be a part of it.”
- And Sam said that he enjoys “meeting all the potential sponsors for MICC.”
Their enthusiasm and leadership embody the spirit of MICC and demonstrate the powerful role MICC participants play in shaping our community.
To all our volunteers—whether you’re supporting behind the scenes, guiding organizational strategy, or sharing your story with others—thank you. Your contributions help create a world where autistic and neurodivergent individuals are empowered to thrive, feel accepted, and be truly valued.
If you’re inspired to get involved, we invite you to explore our upcoming volunteer opportunities at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/miccvolunteer# and become part of the MICC community.