INVOLVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Banning Residence Museum in Wilmington is recruiting volunteers for its docent training program. Participants study the history, economics, politics, architecture and decorative arts of the 19th century. Information: Volunteer Center, South Bay-Harbor-Long Beach, (310) 212-5009.

* 1736 Family Crisis Center in Redondo Beach, which provides services for battered women and their children, needs volunteers in the child care provider program. A three-hour training session is provided. A commitment of one night a week, 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday, is required. Information: Volunteer Center, South Bay-Harbor-Long Beach, (310) 212-5009.

* Descanso Gardens in La Can~ada Flintridge needs docents to conduct tours for schoolchildren and others and to assist during family events. A six-session series of training classes begins Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon. Information: (818) 952-7787.

* Los Angeles Commission on Assaults Against Women needs volunteers for its 24-hour rape and battering hotline and other programs. No experience is necessary. Training begins Sept. 8. Information: Andrea Thompson Adam, (213) 955-9090, Ext. 121.

* Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens in East Long Beach needs people to act as tour guides. A 10-week training program on Saturdays starts Sept. 11. Information Claudia Jurmain, (562) 431-3541.

* National Audubon Society in Los Angeles offers a six-week training program for volunteer naturalists who will lead school tours of the Ballona Wetlands in Playa del Rey, beginning Sept. 9 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and continuing Thursdays through Oct. 14. The Ballona Wetlands is Los Angeles County’s last major salt marsh. Information: Lillian Almdale, (310) 393-6205.

* Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro is holding its monthly Native Garden Workday for volunteers Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants will learn about native plants and the benefits of drought-tolerant landscapes. Information: (310) 548-7562.

Information for this column should be submitted typed and double-spaced to Involvement Opportunities, SoCal Living, Los Angeles Times, Times Mirror Square, Los Angeles, CA 90053.