Volunteering with the Society
Have you ever wanted to get involved, but not sure where to start? The society welcomes anyone interested in volunteering to help preserve the railroading heritage of our region. Not only will you be helping to make a difference, but you may also pick up some new skills! Our exceptional volunteers are what make our society a standout experience.
Museum Train Operations
Our volunteer train crews operate the Museum Train during the summer months. Ever wanted to get involved in train operations? Here's your chance. We will help train you, from brakeman to conductor to engineer.
Equipment Restoration and Maintenance
It takes a lot of work to keep our heritage railroad equipment in operating condition. From welding to wiring to painting and more, our dedicated Dirty Hands Club volunteers work behind the scenes in museum shop on restoration and rebuilding projects.
The museum's three-bay shop is equipped with a full carpentry/woodworking shop, as well as a separate machine shop.
Track Maintenance
Our trains need volunteers who help inspect and maintain the museum track. Help us replace cross-ties, spread ballast, and repair rails on the museum property.
Marketing, Publicity, Publications, Fundraising
We're always looking for fresh ideas in marketing, publicity, publications and fundraising. Are you a skilled author-writer that can help craft attention-getting media and publication content? Do you have experience with grant writing and other fundraising activities? Are you available to help promote our society to the public at area show/events?
How to get started
Ready to start volunteering? Simply come out during one of our regularly scheduled Dirty Hands Club work sessions or Contact Us to get started! Read through this short list so you are prepared to work safely and comfortably in our shop environment. Please Contact Us if you have any questions.
Safety Gear
- Basics: Work gloves are a must to protect your hands. Depending on where you will be volunteering, safety glasses and hard hats are required for some jobs at the museum.
- Footwear: For your safety and comfort, Green Triangle work boots with ankle support are preferred when working around the museum.
- Ear Protection: Ear plugs are available for your personal use.
Clothing
You are going to get DIRTY! If you are planning to do any kind of maintenance or restoration work, old clothes or coveralls are a must. Of course, if you are interfacing with the public on board the museum train, you will be advised of the recommended 'costume' (dress).
Dirty Hands Club Membership
All of our Dirty Hands Club volunteers must join the Society as well as submit Museum volunteer application paperwork. Among other items, the museum application includes a mandatory Police Record Check. However, we welcome anyone interested in volunteering to come on out and have an escorted look around before you commit to joining!
Please Contact Us if you have any questions.
