The American Red Cross of Ventura County is seeking new volunteers for its Disaster Services Teams. Individuals can sign up for free training on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17, which will take place at the Hyatt Westlake, 880 S. Westlake Boulevard.

The training on Saturday, May 16 runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and includes an overview of the American Red Cross, a look at how the Disaster Services Team is organized and how the Red Cross responds to large and small disasters. Information will also be presented on ways the Red Cross provides food, shelter and how the organization meets clients’ needs. A Disaster Action Team Workshop will also be offered, detailing how the Red Cross responds to small local disasters such as single family fires.

The training continues on Sunday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes information on Shelter Operations, with details on how to work and run a shelter, and a Shelter Simulation, consisting of a tabletop exercise pulling all the elements together.

Seating is limited, and RSVP’s are required. To make a reservation, email TrainingVentura@usa.redcross.org or call 805-987-1514, ext. 320. Individuals can also sign up online at www.arcventura.org. Further information is also available through these channels as well.

Since 1917, the American Red Cross of Ventura County has been meeting needs throughout the communities it serves. Each year, more than 1,200 local volunteers respond to more than 50 local disasters, teach tens of thousands of individual’s vital lifesaving skills, and support the men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces. The American Red Cross is not a government agency.