Is ensign roots a Church sponsored program?

While Ensign Roots shares many of the same beliefs, standards, goals, and objectives of the church, Ensign Roots is a separate organization and is not affiliated with EFY, BYU, or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Ensign Roots participants are expected to follow a code of conduct that adheres to gospel standards. Daily gospel study, prayer, and conversations are commonplace at Ensign Roots.

I noticed that a major piece of your program is Technology Reframing. Is this a rehabilitation program?

Although Ensign Roots programs are not designed with the purpose of rehabilitation, and should not be a substitute for such, participants receive education on these issue as it pertains to their personal development and growth and often leave with better perspective and habits. Trends show the increase of unhealthy technology use among teens is correlated to depression and anxiety and this concerns us.

You travel to exotic places. Are these places considered to be safe?

Safety is our first priority. Before releasing a program for registration the locations of activities and accommodations are vetted by our staff to ensure the safety of our participants. We use well-known, trusted in-country coordinators. Our Program Leaders pass a rigorous screening process, including background checks and references, and are CPR/First Aid certified. Because Ensign Roots programs are more than a trip, each of our Program Leaders are thoroughly trained in logistics and program delivery. Process, protocol, and good sense are all part of safety preparations for our group.

How much should I pack for the Book of Mormon expedition?

Please follow the packing list provided. This is more of a backpacking expedition than it is a tour. We don’t sit in one place for long. Although we’ll be covering a lot of ground, you won’t be really carrying around your backpack. In order to board the domestic flight from Guatemala City to Flores, your main pack should be less than 20 lbs. A personal item of 10 lbs. or less is also allowed — but, it’s a good idea to reserve that space for souvenirs you purchase in Guatemala.

Do I need to purchase travel or health insurance or do you provide that?

We provide an international travel and medical emergency policy for all participants while they are out of the country. You are welcome to supplement the insurance, but we see no necessity for that.

As for health insurance, Ensign Roots’ travel insurance provides you with travel insurance to cover short-term medical emergencies and problems while traveling, but you will need to have your own medical insurance just in case you have a problem that requires continued medical treatment after you return. Ensign Roots’ travel insurance is secondary to your primary insurance.

Can I communicate with my child during the Ensign roots experience?

We find that less communication fosters greater independence and reliance on the peers in their cohort. Although regular communication will not be available during the experience, you will of course be able to communicate should an illness, accident, or some extenuating circumstance arise. Your welcome packet contains the direct phone numbers for each of the expedition leaders.

Should I bring my smart device (i.e. phone)?

Since participants do not use their smart device during the program, we recommend leaving it at home. Any electronic device that is brought to the program will be held by Ensign Roots staff for the duration of the experience. This is tremendously important in order to reap the full benefit of the experience. We’ll be taking PLENTY of photos and videos, so we’ve got your covered!

Do I need to bring money?

We keep our participants well fed and entertained. However, you might want money to purchase souvenirs, extra snacks, or any personal expenditures you might want to make. You will be able to exchange your money for the country’s currency upon landing in the country.