TIP of Orange County is a chapter of the Trauma Intervention Programs, Inc. (TIP), a national non-profit organization founded in 1985. TIP has 15 affiliates serving over 250 cities across the nation. Each affiliate has citizen volunteers respond to traumatic incidents at the request of Police, Fire and Hospital personnel to support those who are emotionally traumatized. TIP has received the prestigious Innovations Award in State and Local government from Harvard University and Ford Foundation, Crime Victim Service Award from the US Justice Department and the Governor's Victim Service Award from the State of California.The Orange County Chapter of TIP Inc. was founded in 1995. There are currently 99 volunteers serving 21 jurisdictions, 12 hospitals and 11 public safety agencies, including the City of Los Alamitos. The Chapter receives support and guidance from a local Advisory Committee. TIP is a group of specially trained volunteers who provide emotional aid and practical support to victims of traumatic events and their families in the first few hours following a tragedy.
TIP Volunteers are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are called by police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and hospital personnel to assist family members and friends following a natural or unexpected death; victims of violent crime including rape, assault, robbery, or burglary; victims of fire; disoriented or lonely elderly persons; people involved in motor vehicle accidents; people who are distraught and seeking immediate support; and survivors of suicide.
The annual Heroes with Heart Dinner is a gala event attended by over 400 elected officials, police chiefs, sheriffs, fire chiefs, hospital executives, business leaders and volunteers. The event recognizes officers, deputies, firefighters and hospital personnel who went above the call of duty in 2010 to provide compassionate support to citizens in crisis. Recipients of the Heroes with Heart Award are unsung heroes who, at this event, are given the public recognition they deserve.
On October 22, 2010, Officer Justine Kim of the Los Alamitos Police Department was one of 11 people recognized as a Hero with Heart for 2010 in Orange County. Attendees had an opportunity to show their support of emergency responders who protect the community on a day to day basis.
http://www.tiporangecounty.org/