Brother Mark Ciurej, a retired Signalman, exemplifies the spirit of giving by donating a kidney to his neighbor, Elsa Jensen, in 2015. Mark and Elsa, who developed a lifelong friendship while living as neighbors in Stephens City, Virginia, bonded over shared meals and conversations. When Elsa faced kidney failure, Mark did not hesitate to offer his help, ensuring the transplant was performed at Inova Hospital, a renowned center for such procedures.

The transplant took place on December 21, 2015, marking what Mark calls "the best Christmas I ever had." Through this selfless act, Mark not only saved a life but also demonstrated the profound impact of kindness and community. His generosity serves as an inspiration to us all.

Brother Burt Baird, Local 89, dedicates many hours each year to raising funds for childhood cancer research through St. Baldrick’s. By rallying friends, family, and even strangers to donate generously, he helps support lifesaving initiatives. Last year, Burt’s efforts joined a larger campaign that brought in $33,000, and this year’s shave event aims even higher with a $50,000 goal!

Brother Richard Thielke, Local 56, volunteers for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Brother Thielke's support is driven to bring attention to mental health issues.

Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen Vice President of Commuter/Passenger, Tim Tarrant, recently demonstrated his passion for giving back by helping to organize the second annual Chili Cook-Off, raising $722 for hurricane relief. Beyond his efforts at the BRS, Tim is an active member of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church. As President of the Parish Council, Tim helps foster a sense of community among young parishioners by organizing service projects, fundraising efforts, and social events that strengthen their shared faith and commitment to helping others.

Local 208’s Brother, Lee McDaniel, is the Cubmaster over Pack 28 Scouts out of Paris, TN. As Cubmaster Lee oversees the Scouts and helps to organize community activities. He has helped organize a food drive for local food pantry boxes, and had Pack 28 scouts attend a Veterans Day program where the scouts recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

With over 30 years in the fire service and 35 years as a NYS EMT, Jason Green continues to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter in Bay Shore. He has responded to fires across multiple departments and once patrolled the beaches of Suffolk County as a Marine Constable and Park Ranger.

While assigned to Cupsogue Beach, Jason, crossed paths with the cast of Bravo’s Summerhouse during filming. When he's not on the front lines or the shorelines, he's advocating for dog rescue—proving that signalmen do not just protect the rails, they protect their communities in every way they can.

With 28 years of service as a Signal Inspector, Rodney Montalvo (pictured to the right in both pictures) has long exemplified dedication on the railroad. Off the tracks, he continues to serve as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Staten Island Council #2147, a global Catholic fraternal organization rooted in charity and community service.

Rodney and his fellow members volunteer their time to host food drives, blood drives, and Polar Plunges for the Special Olympics. They also lend support to veterans, reflecting a deep commitment to helping others and making a difference in their community.

Brothers Burt Baird (local 89) and Doug VanderJagt (local 123 attended the St. Baldricks Pediatric Cancer research event in Youngstown, OH, on Saturday, March 15th. Our team (The River Rats) raised over $20,000 and the event at a whole raised $56,171 for Children’s cancer research. Brother Baird Raised $8,196.14 to earn the top spot for individual donations received.

Retired Signalman Teddy Kimbrell, Local 141,and his wife Peggy bless their community every year as Mr & Mrs Santa Claus. They donate their time and hundreds of candy canes each year by participating in the city of. Sweetwater, Tx annual parade where afterwards they meet the children and take their Christmas list. They also visit the Jaycees annual Christmas Dinner for the MHMR & Disabled clients as well as donating their time accepting gifts for the local Toys for Tots. The look forward to it each year.