Scottsdale nonprofit raises $40,000 for free student train rides

K-8 students at qualifying Title I schools in Scottsdale are scheduled to ride the trains at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park for free starting in January 2027.

The Scottsdale Railroad Society raised more than $40,000 at its inaugural Sunset Soiree On the Rails on Oct. 9 to fund the new Golden Ticket Program, Arizona Digital Free Press reported. The program will cover the cost of educational train rides for students attending eligible Title I schools within Scottsdale Unified School District and other qualifying Title I schools in Scottsdale.

The goal, according to the Society, is to remove financial barriers to field trips at the park.

"This initiative gives qualifying K-8 Title I schools the opportunity to visit, ensuring that students can ride the trains at no cost," said William "Bill" Scarbrough, chairman of the board. He added that the program will let more children discover railroad history and "feel a true sense of ownership in this shared community resource."

The Oct. 9 fundraiser drew 120 community, civic and business leaders for cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and live entertainment at the park. Donors included United Scottsdale Firefighters, the Kirk and Collette Johnson Family Charitable Fund, Scottsdale Rotary Club Foundation, Fox Restaurant Concepts, BB Living, A.R. Mays Construction, Metro Construction Management, DWL Architects and Planners and Schultz Development Corp.

Program includes STEAM activity booklet

Beyond free rides, the Society is introducing a STEAM Passport booklet for all students on school field trips at the park. The interactive guide will encourage students to explore attractions, historic exhibits and educational resources through activities focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).

The fundraiser builds on the Scottsdale Railroad Society's nearly 55-year commitment to McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The organization contributed approximately $2.2 million toward the Roundhouse's custom railroad-themed playground equipment, according to Arizona Digital Free Press.