Bella Thorne: LA Mission Annual Thanksgiving for the Homeless Volunteer

Los Angeles, California - Sixteen year old actress Bella Thorne looked adorable as she and her boyfriend Tristan Klier donated their time to volunteer at  the LA Mission's Annual Thanksgiving for the Homeless at the Los Angeles Mission on November 27, 2013 in Los Angeles, California.

It is great seeing Bella and her boyfriend helping those in need by volunteering their time at LA Mission's Annual Thanksgiving for the Homeless event in Los Angeles today.

Photos Credit: Getty

Coast Guardsmen volunteer at Jacksonville Ronald McDonald House

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Members from Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville and the Afloat Training Group gathered in front of the Jacksonville-based Ronald McDonald House, Thursday Jan. 24, 2013. Members spent the day participating in grounds beautification, interior cleaning, moving furniture and hosted a cookout for the families. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Jessica Potter.

ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. — Members from Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville in Atlantic Beach and the Coast Guard Afloat Training Group, based at Naval Station Mayport, participated in a voluntary cleanup day at the Jacksonville-based Ronald McDonald House Thursday.

Coast Guardsmen completed grounds beautification, interior cleaning and moving furniture and ended the day with a cookout for the families.

"The Coast Guard being here is great," said Cat McCarroll, event and marketing manager for the Ronald McDonald House. " In addition to all the work that they have done today they have changed what would have been an ordinary day for the families into a fun and exciting day."

The Ronald McDonald House is a non-profit organization that provides a “home-away-from-home” for families so they can stay close to their hospitalized children at little or no cost.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Members from Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville complete yard work in the courtyard of the Jacksonville-based Ronald McDonald House, Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013. Coast Guardsmen from Sector Jacksonville and the Afloat Training Group participated in grounds beautification, interior cleaning, moving furniture and hosted a cookout for the families. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Jessica Potter.

Volunteer Open House on February 2; Applications Due February 4

Jamestown, California -- Train Town Sierra Railway #28 Steam locomotive Photo Ed Bierman

JAMESTOWN, Calif. – Fascinated by trains? Enjoy working with people from near and far?  A rail enthusiast at heart? Railtown 1897 State Historic Park (SHP) is now accepting applications for people interested in volunteering to help communicate the fascinating railroading history of the “Movie Railroad” in the beautiful Sierra foothills.  Interested volunteers are encouraged to attend a Volunteer Open House on Saturday, February 2, beginning at 9 a.m.   Volunteer applications must be submitted by Monday, February 4, and a thorough volunteer training program will begin on February 9.  Community members are encouraged to join this worthwhile program that offers an opportunity to support the local state historic park while learning more about California’s rich history, meeting new people and developing friendships with those who share similar interests.

While no previous experience with trains or public service is required, recruitment is currently underway for the following volunteer positions in 2013: Car Hosts, Ticket Agents, Tour Guides, Costumed Greeters, and Fire Patrol Operators (entry level engine crew).  At the Open House, prospective volunteers will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the park staff, and talk to current volunteers to learn about the various positions that are available.  Informal tours of the operation will be conducted, and snacks will be served. This is also a great day to visit -- even for those not interested in volunteering -- as the historic Roundhouse will be filled with activity as volunteers showcase their skills.

Railtown 1897 SHP is known for its century-old steam maintenance shops and train rides, including popular rides behind the recently restored Sierra No. 3 (also known as the “Movie Star Locomotive”). In addition to the weekend excursion steam trains, Railtown 1897 SHP offers daily tours, roving interpreters, and many special events.

 Benefits for volunteering at Railtown 1897 SHP include membership in the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, free entrance and train rides at Railtown 1897 SHP and at the California State Railroad Museum, a variety of social activities, interesting training opportunities and guest speakers, discounts at the Depot Store, and participation in an annual volunteer recognition dinner. Interested volunteers can download a volunteer application at www.railtown1897.org. To explore additional ways to support or get involved with Railtown 1897 SHP, email park staff at railtownnews@parks.ca.gov or call 209-984-4408.