Preparing for Your Time at MTI
We are so glad you will be joining us. Our prayer is that your time here in beautiful Colorado brings refreshment, encouragement, and space to breathe deeply. Below you will find helpful information to prepare you well and make the most of your stay at MTI.
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
About the Area
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Mission Training International is located in Palmer Lake, Colorado, a small mountain town settled in the 1860s and incorporated in 1889. Just minutes away is Monument, originally founded in 1895 as Henry’s Station. Together, Palmer Lake and Monument are known as the Tri-Lakes Region, named for the three nearby lakes: Palmer Lake, Woodmoor Lake, and Monument Lake.
Our campus sits about 20 miles north of downtown Colorado Springs and 40 miles south of Denver, offering easy access to both cities while maintaining the quiet beauty of a mountain community. Colorado Springs is home to the United States Air Force Academy and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, adding a unique sense of history and energy to the region.
Visit the town website to learn more!
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Gyms:
Museums and Attractions:
Local Trails and Outdoor Spaces:
Santa Fe Trail
Sundance/Reservoir/Ice Cave Creek Trail
Mount Herman Trail
Monument Trail
Spruce Mountain
Lincoln Mountain Open Space
Ute Valley Park
Garden of the Gods
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
North Cheyenne Cañon Park
Manitou Incline
Palmer Trail
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Mueller State Park
Rocky Mountain National Park
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If you would like to pick up snacks, drinks, or additional groceries during your stay, several stores are located a short drive from campus in Palmer Lake and Monument.
Nearby options include:
Safeway (Monument)
Natural Grocers (Monument)
Walmart (Monument)
Calvert’s Mini Market (Palmer Lake)
Grocery delivery services are also available in the area.
Participants are welcome to bring snacks and personal food items. Food may be eaten in guest rooms. All food must be stored in the shared community pantry, refrigerator, or freezer on the first floor. This helps protect rooms and keeps shared spaces clean for everyone.
Please label all personal items placed in the community kitchen areas. Coffee pots, microwaves, and other heating appliances are not permitted in guest rooms.
Travel & Arrival
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Please plan to arrive at MTI between 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm on the first day of your program. The information below will help you plan travel and make use of the provided shuttle service.
Shuttle Service
A complimentary shuttle service is available on designated arrival and departure days between 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm. Pick-up locations include the Colorado Springs Airport (COS), any Colorado Springs hotel, and the Monument Park-n-Ride. Shuttle timing is coordinated based on participant travel plans and will be communicated as your program start date approaches.
Shuttle pick-up at COS takes place in the arrivals loading zone. If you experience flight delays, please call MTI at (719) 487-0111.
Flight Guidelines
Compass and Essentials
Schedule your arrival flight into Colorado Springs Airport before 1:30 pm on Monday, the first day of the program.
Debriefing & Renewal (DAR)
Schedule your arrival flight into Colorado Springs Airport before 1:30 pm on Sunday, the first day of the program.
If your arrival falls outside the shuttle window or if you fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), you will need to arrange your own transportation. Options include:
Rental car
Commercial shuttle to Monument Park-n-Ride or directly to campus (Groome Transportation, Along Came Carol)
Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft)
Taxi services
Address
Mission Training International
421 State Highway 105
Palmer Lake, CO 80133For best results when using a maps app, search “Mission Training International” rather than entering the street address. GPS directions to the name typically route more accurately to our driveway.
Finding the Entrance
MTI is located off Highway 105 between Palmer Lake and Monument. Watch for the driveway marked with a “Mission Training International” sign directly below the “Recovery Village” sign. Turn into this driveway, then take the first left to enter the main parking lot. -
Compass: Programming concludes at approximately 8:30 AM on Saturday. Schedule your departure flight from Colorado Springs Airport for 11:00 AM or later.
DAR and Essentials: Programming concludes at approximately 11:30 AM on Saturday. Schedule your departure flight from Colorado Springs Airport for 1:45 PM or later.
If your departure falls outside the shuttle window, or if you fly out of Denver International Airport (DEN), you will need to arrange your own transportation. Options include:
Rental car
Commercial shuttle to Monument Park-n-Ride or directly to campus (e.g., Groome Transportation or Along Came Carol)
Taxi services
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Mission Training International is located in Palmer Lake, Colorado, approximately 45 minutes from the Colorado Springs Airport and about one hour from the Denver International Airport.
We offer a complimentary shuttle on designated arrival and departure days to and from the Colorado Springs Airport.
Participants flying into Denver International Airport are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from our campus.
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Mission Training International is located in Palmer Lake, Colorado, at an elevation of approximately 7,200 feet above sea level.
If you are traveling from a lower elevation, you may notice the effects of altitude. Common symptoms can include mild headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, or difficulty sleeping during the first couple of days.
To help your body adjust:
Drink plenty of water before and during your stay
Limit caffeine and alcohol during your first 24–48 hours
Eat regular meals
Plan for light activity your first day if possible
Most participants adjust within a short time. If you have underlying health concerns, especially related to heart or lung conditions, consider consulting your medical provider before traveling.
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If your travel plans change due to flight delays, cancellations, or unexpected road conditions, please contact us as soon as possible at (719) 487-0111. Keeping us informed allows us to plan accordingly and communicate any adjustments.
We will do our best to accommodate delays within our existing shuttle window. Shuttle schedules are coordinated around the arrival and departure plans of all participants. In some cases, especially if a delay falls outside the designated shuttle timeframe, you may be asked to arrange your own transportation to or from campus.
Regardless of the circumstances, it is essential that you stay in contact with us and provide updates until you arrive safely.
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The health and well-being of every participant and staff member is important to us. Because our programs are residential and community-based in nature, we ask all participants to help maintain a healthy environment for the entire community.
If you are experiencing symptoms of contagious illness prior to travel, contact our team as soon as possible. We will work with you to determine the best next steps.
Please contact us if you experience any of the following symptoms or receive a confirmed diagnosis of any of the illnesses listed below:
Symptoms
Fever
Persistent cough
Sore throat
Vomiting or diarrhea
New or unexplained rash
Significant fatigue or body aches
Illnesses
RSV
Flu
COVID19
Norovirus
Pink Eye
Shared spaces are cleaned regularly by our facilities team. Thank you for your participation in maintaining a healthy environment for everyone.
What to Pack
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Casual clothing with layers (Colorado weather can shift dramatically)
Comfortable shoes or boots for walking and light outdoor activity
Extra socks and undergarments
Light jacket or fleece for cool mornings and evenings
Weather-appropriate outerwear (sun hat, rain gear)
MTI provides washers and dryers on campus, so you can plan for mixed weather without overpacking.
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Colorado summer temperatures can reach 75–90° during the day and dip to 30–40° at night. Winter conditions vary widely with snow possible at any time. Elevation in Palmer Lake is about 7,225 feet.
A reusable water bottle is important, as the altitude increases dehydration. Sunscreen and SPF lip protection are strongly recommended, along with lotion to help with dry conditions.
We do have a limited supply of winter weather clothing available for children. Families are strongly encouraged to pack their own items to ensure proper fit and comfort for changing conditions.
Be sure to check the forecast the week you travel.
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Toiletries you prefer (toothbrush, shampoo, deodorant, etc.)
Bible and notebook
Cell phone charger and any personal electronics
Medications and health items you need daily
Child monitors, car seats, or boosters if needed (bring your own or use campus options)
Personal comfort items (chap stick, glasses, etc.)
MTI provides linens, towels, and a laundry facility for participant use.
Weapons, drugs, and alcohol are not permitted on campus for the safety and comfort of all participants.
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Packable exercise gear (no campus equipment provided)
Sunglasses
Backpack or day pack
Specific toys or items for your children.
Earplugs
Refillable mug and water bottle
DURING YOUR STAY
Daily Rhythym
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Each program follows an intentional daily flow that includes teaching sessions, guided discussions, reflection time, and community engagement. Meals serve as natural anchors throughout the day. Evenings may include lighter programming, informal connection, or space to rest.
While the exact schedule varies by program, the rhythm is designed to balance meaningful input with time to process and recharge.
You can view sample daily schedules for each program here:
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Weekdays
Breakfast: 7:30–8:15 AM (one-month programs) • 7:45-8:30 AM (less than 1-month programs)
Lunch: 12:00–1:00 PM
Dinner: 5:30–6:00 PM
Weekends
Breakfast: 8:15–9:00 AM
To-Go Lunches (Saturday): 9:15–9:45 AM
Lunch: 12:00–1:00 PM
Dinner: 5:30–6:00 PM
Final Saturday
Breakfast: 7:30–8:15 AM (one-month programs) • 7:45-8:30 AM (less than 1-month programs)
To-Go Lunches: 7:30–8:45 AM (one-month programs)
Lunch: 11:10-12:00 AM (less than 1-month programs)
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All of our programs include intentional free time built into the schedule. While the structure and length of each program vary, every participant can expect space to rest and recharge during their time with us.
In our month-long program, weekends are intentionally left open, offering extended time to pause, explore, and engage at a slower pace. Across all programs, evenings are generally unscheduled unless otherwise noted on the final schedule provided upon arrival.
These rhythms of margin are a purposeful part of the experience. Free time allows participants to rest, enjoy the surrounding area, connect informally with others, reflect on what they are learning, and tend to personal needs. This balance of structured training and unhurried space supports both growth and sustainability.
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MTI serves three meals daily throughout your stay, except on the first and last days. A weekly menu is posted near the kitchen door.
Fresh coffee is brewed each morning and is available throughout the day. Hot water is available throughout the day, along with tea bags, honey, creamers, and soda. You are welcome to help yourself and enjoy beverages anywhere in the building.
We have a sandwich and salad bar available at certain meals. Please do not use these unless they have been opened by a staff member.
For heath regulations, footwear must be worn in the kitchen area at all times.
Medically necessary food allergies listed on your registration are accommodated. Please mention allergies at the food line to ensure you receive the correct meal.
We gladly serve seconds when available. Please return for more after finishing your first plate.
If you will miss a meal, expect to arrive late, or plan to have someone join you, notify the kitchen in advance.
Meals are enjoyed in the dining room or on the deck. Return all dishes to the dish return daily.
Rooms & Amenities
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Participants stay in private rooms designed to provide space for rest and reflection. Sleeping arrangements are based on the makeup of your household. Married couples share a bed, and each additional family member is provided their own bed. Depending on the size of your family, you may be placed in adjoining rooms.
Each room includes bed(s), a private bathroom, and space for your belongings. Linens and towels are provided, with additional linens available in the laundry room or through a staff member.
Coffee pots, microwaves, and candles are not permitted in rooms.
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Our housekeeping team enters rooms weekly to refresh supplies and maintain a comfortable stay. The schedule below is a general guide and may change based on staffing availability.
One-month programs:
Towel service: Friday of weeks 1, 2, and 3
Linen service and full room refresh: Tuesday of weeks 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Less than one-month programs:
Linen service and full room refresh: Wednesday
On full room refresh days, please place towels on the bathroom floor and linens at the base of the bed by 10:00 am to ensure they are cleaned.
Any stained items should be set aside. In the event of an accident involving bodily fluids, please notify our team so it can be handled with appropriate care.
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A laundry room is located on the first floor outside the elevator and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Laundry room hours are posted on the door.
Please use liquid detergent only.
Extra sheets, trash bags, and an iron and ironing board are available in the laundry room.
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Shared dining and common areas are central to life at MTI. Meals are enjoyed together in the dining room or on the deck, creating natural space for conversation and connection.
A shared refrigerator, freezer, microwave, pantry, and sink are available on the first floor. Please label any personal items placed in these areas.
A family room on the first floor offers a variety of options for relaxation and play, including ping pong, air hockey, foosball, board games, puzzles, and a TV.
We have a “community whiteboard” available across from the kitchen. This is a space for you to communicate with others in the building. It is often used to make plans, tell jokes, or pass along important information.
A room on the third floor includes a variety of musical instruments available for your use.
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Turn off lights when leaving an area
Turn off fireplaces after use
Please help us care for our furniture by leaving it in its current location, as moving it can cause damage
Lower the patio umbrellas after use
Lost and found is available on the main floor next to the fireplace
A perimeter trail runs around the MTI property. Feel free to enjoy it during your stay
Easy access to the Santa Fe Trail is available by following the path near the parking lot entrance across the railroad tracks
Stay off the retaining wall in the parking lot
Recovery Village is our neighbor. Avoid walking up their driveway
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We have outdoor equipment available on a first-come, first-served basis. Return items to their original location when finished so they are available for others. Adult supervision is expected for children using equipment.
The sports court and volleyball court are available for participant use. Equipment is located in the box next to the sports court.
Bikes and car seats are available in the shed during your stay. You are welcome to store your own sports equipment there as well.
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Please report any hospitality requests through this link or by scanning the QR code located in your room.
Evening maintenance emergiences should be reported by calling the number written on the community board.
General Services
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All exterior doors remain locked at all times. A door code will be provided upon arrival.
If you are locked out of your room during business hours, any staff member in the building will be able to assist.
If you are locked out of your room after hours, please contact the on-call hospitality staff member for assistance. The phone number can be found on the community whiteboard.
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We have two vehicles available for shared use within a 7-mile radius of our campus. This includes common destinations such as Walmart, King Soopers, and local shops and restaurants in Monument and Palmer Lake.
Use is intended for general transportation needs during your stay. Please connect with a staff member if you anticipate more frequent or extended use so availability can be managed for all participants.
Van access may be limited during inclement weather for safety.
Keys and sign-out sheets are located at the reception desk.
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Participants are welcome to receive mail during their stay.
Outgoing mail may be left in the front desk basket, and incoming mail can be picked up from the front desk.
For letters, we recommend using our PO Box. For larger packages, please use our physical address and include your name:
Physical Address:
Mission Training International (Attn: Your Name)
421 State Highway 105
Palmer Lake, CO 80133PO Box:
Mission Training International (Attn: Your Name)
PO Box 1220
Palmer Lake, CO 80133 -
Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. Network details will be shared upon arrival.
Printing, copying, and scanning services are available at the reception desk during business hours. Please connect with a staff member for assistance.
A TV is available in a shared common area for group use. Individual rooms do not include televisions.
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We have a notary public available on staff by appointment. To schedule, please connect with someone on the administration team.
This service is provided at no cost. Appointments typically take at least 15 minutes and can often be coordinated based on your program schedule.
Please bring a valid government-issued photo ID. All documents must be complete and unsigned, and all signers must be present at the time of notarization. We are able to notarize most standard documents but cannot provide legal advice or notarize incomplete forms.
If your document requires witnesses, please confirm that you have individuals who have agreed to serve in this role. Each witness must be present and provide a valid government-issued photo ID at the time of notarization.
Families & Children
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Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children during free time and in shared spaces. Our campus is designed for community life, and we ask families to help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
Children should not explore the property alone. Please be mindful of wildlife and natural terrain throughout the campus.
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We are happy to provide helpful items to make your stay easier.
If your child is less than two at the start of a program, we will have a pack-n-play in your room upon arrival.
Available upon request:
Baby monitors
Crib sheets
Step stools
Extra diaper bags
Basic children’s supplies
If there is something specific your family needs, please ask a staff member.
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If your child is napping, please use the Do Not Disturb sign on your door.
Our housekeeping team refreshes rooms on a weekly schedule. If you need to coordinate a specific time due to naps or routines, we are happy to work with you.
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Meals are shared in the dining room or on the deck. High chairs are available.
We understand that mealtimes with children can be lively. We simply ask families to help clean up spills and return dishes to the dish return area.
If your child has medically necessary dietary needs, please communicate this clearly both in advance and at the food line.
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Our campus is located in a mountain environment. Wildlife is common in the area.
Please:
Keep children within sight
Avoid wooded areas without supervision
Dress appropriately for changing weather
Stay hydrated at altitude
Your awareness helps ensure a safe and enjoyable stay for all.
Safety & Policies
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Your safety is important to us. MTI maintains a comprehensive Emergency Response Plan that is available in every room.
In any life-threatening emergency, call 911 first.
MTI Physical Address
421 State Highway 105
Palmer Lake, CO 80133Program staff are trained in emergency response procedures, including fire evacuation, severe weather shelter-in-place, medical response, and campus security protocols. Clear instructions are posted throughout the building.
If an emergency occurs during your stay, please follow staff direction immediately.
A first aid kit is located behind the front desk. Please contact a staff member if assistance is needed.
An AED is located in the cabinet above the first aid kit. Please use this device only if you are fully trained and certified.
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We understand that family or friends may wish to visit during your time at MTI.
All guests must sign in at the front desk upon arrival and wear a nametag at all times while on campus. This applies during all hours, including evenings and weekends.
Visitors may not attend program sessions unless specifically invited.
If you plan to have a guest join you for a meal, please notify the kitchen at least two meals in advance.
While you are welcome to have guests visit during the program and join you for meals, overnight guests are not permitted. This policy supports our childcare standards and overall campus safety measures.
Participants remain responsible for their guests at all times.
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MTI complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regarding service animals.
A service animal is a dog individually trained to perform specific tasks related to a disability.
Participants planning to bring a service animal must notify MTI in advance of arrival. Service animals must follow local licensing and vaccination rules.
Service animals must remain under the control of their handler at all times.
Emotional support animals, therapy animals, or comfort animals are not permitted.
If you have questions about accessibility or accommodations, please contact us prior to your stay.
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While MTI staff are available to assist in an emergency, participants are responsible for their own medical care arrangements, expenses, and insurance coverage.
Emergency Rooms (24/7):
UCHealth Emergency Room
13510 Meadowgrass Drive, Colorado Springs
(719) 364-7010St. Francis Hospital – Interquest
10860 New Allegiance Drive, Colorado Springs
(719) 757-7890
Urgent Care:
Centura Health Urgent Care – Tri-Lakes
17230 Jackson Creek Parkway #120, Monument
(719) 571-7070
Several primary care offices and pharmacies are located within 10–15 minutes of campus in Monument and North Colorado Springs.
In any medical emergency, call 911 first and notify MTI staff as soon as possible.
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The health and well-being of every participant and staff member is important to us. Because our programs are residential and community-based in nature, we ask all participants to help maintain a healthy environment for the entire community.
More detailed information may be provided to you upon your arrival; however, the following is a general framework for health protocols during your time at MTI.
Please contact us if you experience any of the following symptoms or receive a confirmed diagnosis of any of the illnesses listed below:
Symptoms
Fever
Persistent cough
Sore throat
Vomiting or diarrhea
New or unexplained rash
Significant fatigue or body aches
Illnesses
RSV
Flu
COVID19
Norovirus
Pink Eye
Monitor Symptoms
If you begin feeling unwell, notify the front desk or a staff member promptly. Early communication allows us to respond wisely and care for both you and the community. Please notify us if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.
Temporary Room Rest or Isolation
Depending on symptoms, you may be asked to rest in your room for a period of time. In some cases, temporary isolation may be required. Meals can be delivered to your room if needed.
Medical Care
Participants are responsible for their own medical expenses. Urgent care and hospital services are available nearby. Our team can assist with directions or transportation guidance if needed.
Medications
Participants are responsible for bringing and managing their own medications. MTI does not dispense medication beyond basic first aid supplies.
Community Health Practices
Wash hands frequently, especially before meals.
Cover coughs and sneezes.
Use hand sanitizer when appropriate.
Dispose of tissues promptly.
Keep personal spaces reasonably clean.
Shared spaces are cleaned regularly by our facilities team. Thank you for your participation in maintaining a healthy environment for everyone.
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MTI is a shared residential space where participants, families, and children are living, resting, and processing meaningful experiences together. In order to support both engagement and rest, we observe campus quiet hours each evening.
Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM – 7:00 AM
During these hours, please:
Keep conversations and activities at a low volume
Avoid gathering in hallways near guest rooms
Close doors gently
Use headphones for media
If you arrive late or depart early, we ask that you do so as quietly as possible out of consideration for others.
Thank you for helping create a restful environment for everyone on campus.
PREPARING TO LEAVE
As your program comes to a close, here is what you need to know about departure day.
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All participants should complete room departure tasks by 9:00 am on Saturday.
Final building checkout times vary by program:
Compass: Programming concludes at approximately 8:30 AM on Saturday. Schedule your departure flight from Colorado Springs Airport for 11:00 AM or later. Please be out of the building by 11:00 am.
Essentials in Debriefing and DAR: Programming concludes at approximately 11:30 AM on Saturday. Schedule your departure flight from Colorado Springs Airport for 1:45 PM or later. Please be out of the building by 2:00 pm.
If your departure falls outside the shuttle window, or if you fly out of Denver International Airport (DEN), you will need to arrange your own transportation. Options include:
Rental car
Commercial shuttle to Monument Park-n-Ride or directly to campus (e.g., Groome Transportation or Along Came Carol)
Taxi services
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Before leaving your room, please:
Strip your bed.
Place all linens and towels in two piles in the bathroom.
Do not wrap flat sheets inside fitted sheets.
Leave comforters and blankets on the bed
Leave pack-n-play sheets in the pack-n-play
Remove all personal belongings
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Return your room key to the front desk. Initial next to your name on the key return list to confirm check-out.
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Compass: A to-go lunch will be available during breakfast.
Essentials in Debriefing and DAR: Lunch will be available following your morning session.
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Departure and shuttle details will be clearly posted throughout the building prior to departure.
Please say your goodbyes before your scheduled shuttle departure time.
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Before leaving campus:
Double check the lost and found
Clear out the participant refrigerator, freezer, and pantry
We invite you to follow MTI on social media and consider leaving a Google review.
We would also love to hear from you about your time with us. You are invited to share a brief video reflection, up to three minutes, about your experience. This link allows you to record directly from your phone or computer. No downloads required.
If helpful, you may consider:
Sharing one key lesson or experience that impacted you.
Telling a memorable story from your time here.
Offering encouragement to someone considering MTI.
Your reflections serve future participants and strengthen the broader MTI community.
CONTACT US
Main Office Phone: (719) 487-0111
WhatsApp: (720) 704-8744
Email: info@mti.org | CompassRegistration@mti.org | DARregistration@mti.org
Office Hours: M-F 8:00-4:30 PM (MST)
