The programs of the DCNRHS are accomplished through the efforts ofindividuals who support the chapter with their time and effort.Our volunteers are the most critical and unique resource that DCNRHS has, and through their efforts, they provide leadership in all aspects of Chapter operations.
To recognize these individuals‘ contributions, DCNRHS has established the RAILS program. RAILS (Recognizing And Incentivizing LeaderS)recognizes and rewards members for the invaluable time and effort they contribute to Chapter programs.
As one of the country’s largest and most active NRHS Chapters, DCNRHS has a wide variety of programs that need your help!
The Martin F. O’Rourke Memorial Railroad Libraryin Bowie, MD is staffed entirely with volunteers,who operate the library, catalog the collections, andconduct research on a variety of rail topics.
DCNRHS Rail Operations are a unique opportunity towork on the Chapter’s vintage railcars:
•Dover Harbor, a classic American Pullman car built in 1923
•Franklin Inn , a stainless Pennsylvania RR car build in 1949
•Collinsville Inn , a stainless Pennsylvania RR car build in 1949
Help is needed with trip planning, maintenance and restoration, and travel as a steward, chef, mechanic or car host.
Chapter Operations and Member Services are entirely volunteer-staffed.DCNRHS depends on members for monthly membership programs, newsletter articles, special events such as National Train Day, website support, public outreach, marketing, strategic planning, and Chapter leadership roles.
Opportunities for fun and adventure abound! If you can donate a lot of time, great, but if not, an hour or two here and there can make a world of difference! Much of the work can be done from home. Here are some of our critical people needs (not all inclusive ):
• Writers (for Grants)
• Corresponding Secretary
• Trip Organizers/Docents
• Chefs/Cooks, Stewards/Porters, and other crew for the DOVER HARBOR
• Publicists to promote Chapter trips and activities and follow up with media outlets
• Photographers for our web site and newsletter
• Mechanics, machinists, & electricians
• Writers (for The Timetable )
• Staffing Coordinators
• Librarian(s) and archivist(s)
• Program Coordinator(s)
• A variety of other needs!
Don't be shy! Don't say "I can't do that." If you can apply your professional expertise in one of these roles great! But there is ample opportunity to learn, and many of these jobs are not complex. We will help guide you through the work. Please help us. To accept a position, to offer services in another area, or for further information, contact our President.
