The Alaska Railroad has been an important part of Alaska's communities since it all began in 1915. To keep with this tradition, the Railroad donates funds to railbelt communities and organizations. We also support non-profits that enhance educational opportunities, community quality of life, economic health, community services and business development.
How to Apply
The Alaska Railroad (ARRC) focuses the majority of its charitable giving in the form of in-kind contributions. This includes rail tickets, prints and posters, used ties, used equipment and transportation services, such as freight transportation or special charters. Links to in-kind contribution forms are below.
ARRC also provides sponsorships, membership fees and other cash-based contributions to charitable and civic organizations. Such support is determined each year as part of ARRC's budget planning process.
NOTE: Cash grant program suspended indefinitely.
Donation of the Denali Business Car is administered separately. Links to Denali Car Charitable Donation Procedures and associated forms are also below.
Corporate Contribution Request Forms and Guidance Documents
GUIDANCE:
Corporate Contribution Guidelines & Procedures- Denali Car Donation Policy & Procedures
- Denali and Aurora Car Terms & Conditions
FORMS:
Partnering with Alaska Schools
Government Hill Elementary School Partnership:
In 1995, ARRC developed a partnership with Government Hill Elementary School in Anchorage. Through this partnership, great programs have been put in place:
- Railroad tutor program: Railroad employees tutor students in varying subjects
- Annual Science Fair: ARRC sponsors a science fair in which both students and Railroad employees participate.
- Annual Back-to-School Picnic: Railroad employees prepare and serve hot dogs and drinks to students, parents and teachers.
The Tour Guide Program:
The Railroad has long standing partnership arrangement with the Anchorage and Fairbanks School Districts. A hallmark of this partnership has been the Tour Guide Program through which high school students are trained each spring to become tour guides on the summer passenger trains.
The Tour Guide Program is one of the most successful school business partnerships in the nation. In fact, the Alaska Railroad was presented with an award by the National Partners in Education. The program has resulted in numerous positive letters from people all over the country that have taken the train while on a trip in Alaska. The student tour guides have received high marks for knowledge, friendliness and quality customer service.
School Link:
Commemorative Art Print Program & History
Each year, the Alaska Railroad Corporation commissions an artist to produce artwork that is the basis for a limited edition print, poster and lapel pin and other gifts and materials. The annual Alaska Railroad artwork is a favorite among rail fans and Alaska art collectors. These collector's items are available for sale through the Anchorage Historic and Fairbanks depots, as well as the online Gift Shop. The Railroad typically produces 250 signed and numbered prints and 4,000 posters, along with matching lapel pins.
- History of Art Prints - Catalog of images of art prints 1979 - current
2026 Commemorative Art Print Contest and Artist Selection
For 2026, ARRC commissioned its official commemorative posters & prints with Eagle River artist Richard Rearick, which will be for sale in early January 2026. "Ship Creek Crossing" depicts locomotive 4006 as it crosses Anchorage's Ship Creek, with the majestic silhouette of Mount Susitna (Sleeping Lady) in the distance. For more information please visit the Art Print page.
2027 Commemorative Artist Selection
As part of the Alaska Railroad's 2026 Art Print Contest, more than 40 artists submitted their artwork to be considered for the annual art program. Given the many high quality entries received, ARRC has selected an artist from the 2026 applicants to create the art print for 2027.
ARRC intends to host an open artist solicitation and contest in January 2027 to create the 2028 commemorative artwork.
The 2026 Alaska Railroad Tour Guide Training Program
Ready to explore Alaska while building valuable career skills? The Alaska Railroad Tour Guide Training Program is kicking off for 2026 — and it’s a great opportunity for high school students interested in the visitor industry.
This hands-on program teaches students what it takes to be a successful tour guide, with a focus on:
- Customer service
- Cross-cultural communication
- Public speaking
- Alaska geography, history, and economics
- Visitor-related interests
Students who complete the course may be eligible for summer employment with the Alaska Railroad — a chance to turn training into real-world experience! Applicants must be 16 years old, a junior or senior in the Anchorage School District and possess a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
Selected students are expected to work full-time during the summer, between the end and start of the school year. Any time off must be prearranged and approved.
Classes will be held Monday through Thursday, January 12 - April 9, 2026, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM at King Tech High School.
Important Dates to Remember:
Open House:
Alaska Railroad Depot – Anchorage
November 13 | 7:00–8:00 PM
Come meet the team and learn more about the program!
Application Deadline:
December 4, 2025 | 5:00 PM
📄 Click here for more information and the application form
📧 Questions? Email us at: akrrtourguideprogram@gmail.com
