Disaster service training program Monday

It will take place at its Holland Township office, 270 James St.

Anyone wanting to volunteer in the aftermath of a disaster such as Hurricane Sandy needs to take the four-hour class, said Judy Petersen of West Olive, disaster services coordinator for the Ottawa County chapter of the Red Cross. To register, call 616-396-6545.

Petersen said the class is used to give prospective volunteers "a reality check" so they find out the difficulties in working at a disaster site.

“This is not a vacation,” Petersen said. “This is actual work to help people get back on their feet.”

The Red Cross requests people be available for a three-week stint at a disaster site. Once the volunteer has received training, the Red Cross provides transportation, food and lodging.