Minnesota Independence College and Community (MICC) is a three year postsecondary, life-skills training program for young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other learning differences located in Richfield, Minnesota, United States. History Minnesota Independence College and Community, previously known as Minnesota Life College, is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1996 by Bev and Roe Hatlen, co-founders of Old Country Buffet. One of the Hatlen's children had a developmental disability, and upon graduation of high school had only a handful of schools like MLC (Now known as MICC) to choose from, all scattered across the United States. It was at that time that the Hatlen's decided to start a post-secondary school for young adults with learning disabilities, since one did not already exist in Minnesota, and it was at this time that Minnesota Life College was opened. Minnesota Life College changed their name on August 1, 2018 to Minnesota Independence College and Community. The program Minnesota Independence College and Community is an apartment living innovative life skills instructional program for young adults whose learning disabilities pose serious challenges to their independence. Minnesota Independence College and Community is not like a traditional University or College. The education the students at MICC receive has more to do with teaching life skills instead of contemporary educational subject matter. MICC stresses skill acquisition in independent living, social development, vocational readiness, decision-making, and fitness and wellness. All of this can be summed up in the mission statement: The Mission of Minnesota Independence College and Community is to prepare young adults with learning disabilities to achieve personal and financial self-sufficiency. The program at Minnesota Independence College and Community is split into three phases. The Core Phase, which is for first and second year students, the Transition Phase, which is for third year students, and the third phase, the Community Living Program. Core Phase (MICC College - Core 1) The core phase is the beginning of the program for all new students. During the core phase, students set individual goals based on an evaluation of their strengths, abilities and interests. Over the course of two years, the students begin to learn and practice self-management and social skills they may be lacking or having trouble in. Also during the core phase, students practice employment skills, fitness and nutrition, personal financial management, self-esteem building, and leadership opportunities. During the core phase, students live in a two-bedroom apartment that