We at the Bike Collective in UT (Provo, SLC, Ogden) would be THRILLED to host outta-staters. Salt Lake and Ogden are places that one can create a cheap life in really easily within spitting distance of moutains and canyons that need to be explored at least once in a lifetime by bike. I can see us setting up a semi-formal "Journeywrench" setup which could include:
1. Housing connection
2. Tour of dumpster options in SLC for those inclined.
3. Lender 80's mtb program: pick an untuned one that fits you, fix it up as your hands-on 'interview,' ride it for a summer, return it tuned up. (bring your own lock)
4. mechanic's position at one of our shops for in-shop credit, and depending on bike supply and demand (i.e., if you come in summer and we have enough bikes to justify another mechanic) that could turn into a temp paid gig @ $10 an hour after they've shown their chops.
5. Invitation along to all bike collective madness.