The health of our guests and our colleagues is our highest priority, and we are taking extensive measures to ensure your safety.
To attend a retreat or event all guests, teachers, and staff are required to self-test (at home antigen test is acceptable) within the 48-hour window prior to arriving for a retreat on site, and to bring a 2nd self-test kit when coming on site.
We encourage everyone to self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and other illnesses before your visit.
If you experience symptoms or have a positive diagnosis, please notify us immediately at events@garrisoninstitute.org.
We will continue to follow any COVID-19 guidelines set forth by our local officials, NYS, and the CDC.
Information for Groups:
More information for groups planning to hold retreats at the Institute should contact us directly by emailing events@garrisoninstitute.org.
Frequently Asked Questions from Teachers and Guests:
Our current FAQ is below, and we will add to this list as needed:
Is there a pre-arrival health screening for guests?
Yes, all guests will be required to complete a health assessment and to self-test and self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms. We also require our general liability waiver form with e-signature for all forms prior to arriving on site.
Is your staff required to conduct daily health screenings?
Yes, all of our staff are required to do a self-assessment daily with specific health questions and temperature taking before coming into work. Staff will also participate in well-being screenings onsite and are following strict hygiene protocols.
Will there be a registration, check-in desk when I arrive ?
No, our pre-registration process handles most information for your arrival including completing our waivers, bedroom & bathroom assignments for overnight guests, any special items to bring (or not to bring) onsite. Registered guests will receive information via email and are asked to Text upon arrival.
Is the no-cost Garrison Institute shuttle van available ?
Yes, our van shuttle service is operating on opening days during registration and on closing days after the closing session. However, we may ask that guests respond to the pre-registration question: Will you need a shuttle service from the Metro North Garrison Station to our facility ? This will allow pre-reserved van shuttle needs to accommodate guests safe transport to the Institute.
Is there still a Guest Services Desk and is the Garrison Store available on site?
Yes, our Guest Services Dept. will be available on opening days and many times throughout the retreat. This is located in the Main Lobby area. No, our Gift Store is closed at this time. However, we can provide basic personal care items as needed for guests.
When are guests required to wear face coverings (masks) while at Garrison?
The wearing of face masks is not required, but guests are welcome to bring/wear masks at any time to their comfort level.
Are there shared bathrooms for guests?
Yes, our facility has shared bathrooms with two large rooms on each floor as well as single use bathrooms on the first floor (*a bathroom is reserved for those with mobility issues only). Guests are encouraged to use a Tote or sealed bag for their personal care items and transport back to bedrooms after use.
What are our cleaning protocols?
We have vamped up our cleaning efforts following CDC recommendations and are using EPA approved, but non-toxic cleaning products for our building including common spaces, meeting and guest rooms, dining hall, and bathrooms. We are paying special attention to high-touch areas and communal areas such as bathrooms.
Do bedrooms and meeting spaces have fresh air options?
Yes, all of our guest bedrooms, bathrooms, meeting spaces, dining room have many windows to be opened and fresh air will be circulating.
How are laundry and linens being handled?
Upon arrival, each guest bedroom is outfitted with a sanitized sheet packet and bed coverlet. Our laundry service is commercial and compliant with industry standards set by OSHA for cleaning protocols. Upon departure, each guest is asked to bundle sheets and their towel into their pillowcase and leave in their rooms. Towel baskets in bathrooms and small bedroom rugs have been removed at this time.
How is Food and Beverages being offered to guests?
We are currently having buffet meals for guests with an array of vegetarian and organic food. Our coffee and tea service is being served throughout meal times in our main dining room. Our long-time, amazing caterer is fully trained as a ServSafe certified food provider. Guests can still bring their own food but we ask for fully zippered, labeled bags for storage and recommend using disposable gloves for retrieval if using our common space to store.
What should I do if I suddenly do not feel well while at Garrison?
Guests are asked to inform the emergency contact for your group if not feeling well while onsite at Garrison. They can advise our key staff and advise on where to seek immediate medical care.
What are your protocols if someone is experiencing COVID-like symptoms?
Should a guest begin to exhibit symptoms they are asked to notify the emergency contact for the group or to alert a Garrison Staff person. The guest will be supported to leave our site to seek more immediate, local medical care or to return home to do so.
Where can I find a testing site near the Garrison Institute?
Please visit this state resource page and search for our zip code, 10524.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
We are available for your questions by email events@garrisoninstitute.org. Please allow 24 hours for a reply back.