The Regional Crime Victim Crisis Center is now accepting applications for a new victim assistance volunteer training class that will begin Aug. 5.

Victim assistance volunteers accepted into the program receive 40 hours of intensive training in crisis intervention, including how to provide important information and support to victims of violent crimes and their families. Volunteers answer the 24-hour crisis hot line and respond to assist victims at the Trauma Center and at crime scenes when requested by law enforcement, according to a news release.

Volunteers will complete an application/interview process to be accepted into victim assistance training. A criminal-background check is required of all new volunteers.

Training will be held Aug. 5, 7, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21 and 23, 2008. Tuesday and Thursday classes will be from 6 to 9 p.m.; Saturday will be from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All eight class sessions are required in order to complete the training.

For applications or more information, call (325) 677-7895 or visit www.regionalcrime.org. The deadline for application is Aug. 1. The next scheduled training will be in February.