COUPLE TRAINED TO FACE DISASTER : VOLUNTEERS HELP OUT ON RED CROSS TEAM.

Byline: Alicia Doyle Daily News Staff Writer

In 1994, they helped victims of the Northridge Earthquake. In the early '80s, they evacuated families during the Sinaloa Dam disaster.

And on any given day, Bill and Lisa Lawrence could help victims recover from fires, floods or other catastrophes.

Though they've faced disaster and devastation for 18 years, the Lawrences remain enthusiastic volunteers.

``We make a positive difference in the world rather than negative,'' said Lisa Lawrence, team leader of Simi Valley's Disaster Action Team for the American Red Cross of Ventura County. The Lawrences have been the city's volunteer team since 1980.

``There's a satisfaction in knowing we can help somebody,'' Lisa Lawrence said. ``There are people out there who are nurses or firefighters - this is our way of helping others.''

Hoping to recruit more volunteers, the local Red Cross has designated March as Red Cross Month, with a campaign to attract people from all walks of life.

``So many people want to help when disaster strikes,'' said Richard Rink, director of disaster services. ``This is an opportunity for people to learn how to help before a disaster happens so they are ready to make a difference in the lives of those affected.''

Red Cross training classes are free and cover a variety of subjects.

Trained volunteers provide free help to victims of earthquakes, floods, fires, train derailments, landslides and other disasters. Assistance ranges from immediate shelter to more long-term needs, such as clothing, food and financial help.

Volunteers may also be assigned to catastrophes across the globe. For instance, Disaster Action Teams helped during tornadoes in Louisiana, Hurricane Marilyn on the island of St. Thomas and Hurricane Opal in Alabama.

Moorpark resident James Carpenter, a Disaster Action Team volunteer for four years, never expected volunteerism to be so gratifying.

``When you walk away from someone who's had a very traumatic experience, and you've been able to help them ease their pain, it's very rewarding,'' he said. ``There's not anything you can buy that would give you that kind of feeling.''

The county Red Cross chapter has a few paid staff members who oversee more than 2,500 volunteers. The American Red Cross relies on donations to keep programs alive, Rink said.

Volunteers range from 18 to 90 years old. Some are retired and some are unemployed. Others work at gas stations, law offices, doctor's offices or computer companies.

``Volunteers are key,'' Rink said. ``Each and every one of them is what makes this possible.''

DISASTER ACTION TEAM

The American Red Cross of Ventura County offers free training for volunteers interested in joining a Disaster Action Team. For information, call the Ventura County chapter at [phone] or the East Valley District Office, [phone].

CAPTION(S):

Box: DISASTER ACTION TEAM (see text)