I was a volunteer with the Trauma Intervention Program of Northern Nevada for several years; when I had to resign because of a health issue, it broke my heart. I wholeheartedly believe in the work the TIPNN is doing. Trauma can be paralyzingly and trauma that is not worked through will leave lasting repercussions. I have seen the look of relief on the faces of first-responders when we come on-scene; they are now free to effectively continue with their jobs. I have seen how grateful those who have been involved in a traumatic situation are to find that there is someone reaching out to them, listening to them, helping them move positively forward through the recovery process.
Before becoming an volunteer, I never realize the huge impact that I may bring to the community and the people that I help. Imagine the worst day of you life, and you are all alone trying to endure the unbearable pain, wouldn't you like someone to just be there with you and assist you through your grieving process. I couldn't be more proud of what I have done as a volunteer of Trauma Intervention Program at Northern Nevada. As a volunteer, you are directly making a difference in the community and a difference in other people's lives.
I have been a volunteer with TIPNN for over 2 years and it has been an incredible experience. It can feel like a huge commitment but is very doable if you are willing to honor that commitment and plan for your shifts. I have met some incredible individuals and know that I am helping citizens in my community. I would encourage anyone who is looking for an opportunity to give back to their community to take the leap and become a volunteer for TIPNN.
I have been a TIP volunteer for 5 years. I have seen a lot of tragedy and have helped
provide comfort and guidance to people who are having the worst moment of their life.
Even though it is hard to be with them those few hours after an unexpected death,
I can't think of anything that matches the compassion of being with someone at a
time like that. I also know the police and the medical examiners are grateful for my
providing a service that enables them to do their job in a complete and respectful
manner
If you don't know what to do if your loved one dies today, you're the kind of person we help out.
Emergency responders can respond to emergencies, but not to the aftermath. For emotional wreckage, responders call the Trauma Intervention Program.
TIP gives people emotional and practical support in the hours immediately after a tragedy, like a suicide, a fire, or a car crash. Without us, people who experience these things are often on their own for hours until friends or family can be there for them.
That's a problem. Growing up in Nevada, I've noticed that few people have a support system. Anywhere else in America, you can rely on your community for things. Out here, good luck meeting your neighbors before they move!
People need to watch each others' backs more. By providing aid to people who have been through trauma, I think TIP provides the connectedness that we need, when we need it most.
It' a great non-profit.
I am still technically in training, but this is the most well-run organization I have ever been involved in - volunteer or otherwise, in addition to it providing a valuable resource to community. The passion of those who have been involved beyond traineeship is palpable. It also provides a way to honor emergency responders, who do an amazing job,and very often go unrecognized for the public service they provide every day in our community. Trauma can happen at any time to any one and TIP is always available to help those affected by it.
I am a volunteer in training and this program is amazing. The environment is welcome and fun and I leaened many new things. Completely recommend!
TIP is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week for citizens in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event. This program is an incredible resource for local emergency responders to call someone who is trained to provide this invaluable support to survivors on scene.
I had no idea how profound the power of presence is until I became a volunteer for TIP of Northern Nevada. I was always the one who had a wealth of 'good ideas' on 'how to help' when friends or family were faced with trauma or tragedy. Turns out, I can't help at all. But I can be there for them. I can sit silently with them, while they process. I can offer my ear and my heart to give them a sense of support while they navigate difficult situations.
TIP training was undoubtedly the single most influential training I have attended in my life. Sounds like I'm being extravagant with my support, but it is truth. Not only does my TIP training serve me so well on TIP calls, it also serves me incredibly well in my personal life, at work, and with friends. I call upon my skills darn near every day. Becoming a TIP volunteer has been a life altering experience that I wouldn't trade for the world.
I am more confident, more comfortable in my own skin, more aware, more empathetic (as versus sympathetic), more sensitive. I am so proud of the work I do with TIP. Proud to give back to my community in a way that is so HUGE, yet done on such a micro-level.