See yourself Connecting, Communicating, Belonging

Real-world social skills, practiced in a supportive group of people who get it! We're building confidence for daily life in MICC’s new Connect program inspired by UCLA PEERS®.

MICC’s Connect program supports autistic and neurodivergent young adults in building the social confidence and communication skills needed for healthy relationships, greater independence and a fulfilling life while staying authentically themselves. In a welcoming, inclusive setting, participants learn alongside peers who share similar experiences and interests, practice real-life interactions in community settings and receive individualized coaching that helps turn understanding into action.

For those with autism, ADHD/ADD, or other neurological, developmental or learning disability.

Participants are 18 years of age or older (no max age limit!).

Must have a high school degree or equivalency.

Group Sessions meet 1 day per week for 10 weeks and include weekly individualized coaching.

Can enroll in multiple sessions as lessons are progressive over two, 10 week sessions.

MICC Participants Discuss Friendships and Relationships

Friendships and relationships are a crucial piece of anyone’s support system. Watch the full video to hear from participants on how their friendships and relationships at MICC add meaning to their lives.

Michael Henderson, College Graduate

"I've learned how to go out into the community and be much more social because of the lessons and the people I've met and the friends I've made."

Social Skills for Real Life

Structured learning. Real-world practice.
Peer support.

Like all MICC programs, Connect blends structured learning with real-life application, recognizing that confidence grows through doing, reflecting and trying again with the right support.

Connect is designed specifically for how autistic and neurodivergent adults learn best. Through small-group lessons, guided practice and individualized coaching, participants build practical social skills they can use at home, in the community and in future work environments.

Connect with the curriculum

10 Weeks of Social Learning and Friendship Building

Eight structured lessons focused on social communication, conversation initiation and group interaction
Two sessions dedicated to practicing skills through real-world, supported activities
Up to 45 minutes per week of 1:1 coaching to reinforce learning and develop personalized strategies

Connect Outcomes:

Meeting people, building connections and maintaining friendships
Starting, joining, sustaining and exiting conversations respectfully
Using humor and navigating online communication appropriately
Demonstrating teamwork, flexibility and good sportsmanship in group settings

Participants gain practical tools, increased confidence and skills that carry forward into everyday life.

Practice Job Skills, Personal Wellness & Connection

Connect emphasizes learning by doing. Small group sizes (up to eight participants) create a safe, supportive environment where young adults practice skills together, learn from one another and grow through shared experience.

Practice social communication through structured group activities
Apply skills during community outings and MICC events
Learn from trained MICC facilitators who model and reinforce effective strategies
Strengthen independence, confidence and readiness for adult social and work environments

A Program Built on Evidence and Community

The Connect program integrates evidence-based strategies from UCLA PEERS® with MICC’s community-centered approach to learning and support. By combining structured lessons, real-world application, individualized coaching and peer learning, participants build confidence and practical social skills that support independence across all areas of adult life.

Connect also creates a pathway for continued participation in MICC’s Social program, where individuals can stay engaged at MICC, maintain social connections and continue receiving support as they apply these skills in everyday life. This ongoing involvement helps reinforce learning, deepen relationships and sustain growth beyond the Connect sessions.

Connect can be taken on its own or alongside Career Confidence. Together, these programs strengthen shared skills: communication, self-awareness, collaboration and confidence.