is shared with three other roommates. Transition phase (MICC College - Core 2 and 3) Upon completion of the core phase, students move into the transition phase. During the transition phase, students continue to practice the skills needed for healthy, independent living. Despite holding jobs, participating in internships, and/or attending a traditional postsecondary educational institution, transition students continue to live with MICC roommates on campus and maintain their involvement in MICC activities. After completion of the transition phase, students are considered to have graduated from Minnesota Independence College and Community. Community Program (CP) (MICC Community) Upon completion of the transition phase, Minnesota Independence College and Community graduates have gained the skills needed to live on their own. However, the community program (CP) is an additional program for graduates who need extra, more specific help and support. Graduates and their parents are able to select services such as job placement and job coaching, recreation and alumni activities, and case management. While participating in the community living program (CP), graduates live independently typically on campus in apartments separate from the core and transition students. People can be members of the community living program (CP) as long as they live within a 5 mile radius of the campus and have graduated from the Minnesota Independence College and Community undergraduate program. Annual scholarship and programs benefit In 2004, the school held its first benefit to raise money for the students and program. Since then, once a year, usually at the end of April, it holds a benefit to raise money for the program. The Gala, as it is commonly referred, raises money to help with scholarships for families in need of assistance, as well as support program costs. It consists of both a silent and live auction, accompanied by a formal sit down meal and various speakers, including students in the program. In the past, the event has been emceed by a local celebrity in the community (such as KARE/11 news anchor Julie Nelson in 2004 and 2005). External links Main Website Sources MICC College Program MICC Community Program (CP) MICC Careers Program Educational institutions established in 1996 Special education in the United States Richfield, Minnesota Private universities and colleges in Minnesota Universities and colleges in Hennepin County, Minnesota 1996 establishments in Minnesota