A nonprofit that focuses on providing in-person assistance to individuals and families who have suffered a tragic loss, been victimized by crime or experienced shock from a natural or manmade disaster put out a call Tuesday for volunteers in Menifee.
The Trauma Intervention Programs of Riverside County has partnered with the city of Menifee to offer training opportunities for new “TIP” volunteers.
“Giving your time to this program can make a huge impact on people’s lives who may have no one to turn to for support in the immediate aftermath of a tragedy,” CEO of TIP Riverside County Magda Stewart said. “Volunteers can also alleviate first responders at the scene, enabling them to do their work, with volunteers taking over comforting the people involved in the crisis at hand.”
The county chapter has been in operation since 1993, serving multiple jurisdictions. The national organization was chartered in 1985 and provides guidance and support to the constituent parts.
Victims of sexual assault, car crash survivors and those who experienced tragedy stemming from suicide are among recipients of TIP volunteer care, according to the nonprofit.
Also, victims of residential fires and wildfires, rape and robbery victims and their loved ones, as well as “disoriented older persons” who are alone without help can receive assistance 24 hours a day, the organization said.
TIP volunteers are often requested by law enforcement officers, paramedics and personnel at hospitals to provide assistance.
Volunteers are required to train for 37 hours spread out over eight days before they reach the benchmark for qualification. TIP Riverside County is actively seeking volunteers to serve Menifee, where the training program is planned from Jan. 23 to Feb. 1. Three training sessions occur during the day, while the remainder will be held in the evenings.
Anyone interested was asked to contact Stewart at 951-698-2453, or magdaceo@tiprivco.org.
Further information is available at tiprivco.org/.