Trauma Intervention Programs Inc. (TIP), a national nonprofit organization, is working with local public safety officials in Buncombe County and the city of Hendersonville to establish a TIP Chapter in Western North Carolina.
A TIP Chapter is a group of very well trained community volunteers who are called by emergency personnel to tragic scenes to provide support to those who have been affected. TIP Volunteers are often called to support family members after a sudden death and to support those who have experienced an unexpected crisis in their lives.
“Residents of this community who have just experienced a tragedy should not be alone in what may be the worst few hours of their lives,” according to Wayne Fortin, TIP’s Founder. “Our volunteers provide support until the survivors’ family members and friends are able to,” he said.
Hendersonville Police Chief Blake sees a need for the continuation of care. “In today’s world, any organization that chooses to remain in place will fall behind. I think police leaders should be willing to experiment with new ideas and concepts; and nurture an organizational culture that encourages innovative thinking and challenge some current practices” he says. “The Trauma Intervention Programs (TIP) seems to be a viable initiative that might offer an exceptional opportunity to provide potentially key services to our public safety personnel and to our citizens in our community.”
TIP of Western North Carolina is now recruiting local residents who live in Buncombe or Henderson Counties to be TIP Volunteers. “The first step in establishing a TIP Chapter is to recruit volunteers willing to reach out and help their neighbors when tragedy strikes,” said TIP Development Officer Mandy Atkission. “We hope that Buncombe and Henderson County residents will respond to our invitation to join TIP,” she said.
The Volunteer Training Academy will begin Thursday, October 22nd. No experience is necessary. To view the training schedule go to www.tipnational.org.
To register or with questions Call: (828)-513-0498 or Email: [email protected]