When Tragedy Strikes
By: Andrea Fine
Every day, members of our community experience traumatic events that leave them in urgent need of emotional and practical support. Trauma Intervention Program of Orange County provides that critical assistance, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to Newport Beach and most Orange Counties cities.
It’s 3:30 am and the phone next to Stephanie’s bed rings. “Hi Stephanie” a TIP dispatcher whispers. “We’ve received a call from Newport Beach Police and they need our help with a family.” Stephanie jumps out of bed, brushes her teeth and heads into the heavy marine layer. Within minutes, an officer is introducing Stephanie to the parents of a young teen found dead in his room. They are clearly in shock, devastated beyond words. In a little while, they will be looking for answers, for information, for anything to bring sense to the situation. And then come all the decisions to be made.
Stephanie is a TIP volunteer extensively trained to assist victims and survivors of trauma in these moments and the hours that follow. On a scene filled with lights, sirens and uniforms, she is the quiet presence that brings calm to chaos. She comforts, listens and protects. Within a few hours, she will have explained the process taking place and what is to follow. She connects the parents with family members, their church and with a mortuary. She guides them with how and what to say to their son’s younger siblings and provides resources the hurting family may need going forward. “Knowing we can provide a reassuring presence a
nd critical support to someone during such difficult times is why we do this,” Stephanie explains. "To offer a Kleenex, some water, a blanket, the presence of someone who truly cares - it is the first step in this new life after tragedy. If I can assist with the details- it is an honor to serve these members of my community.”
TIP is used exclusively at the bequest of first responders (law enforcement, fire and hospitals). In 2024, TIP served more than 10,000 victims and survivors in O.C. Deaths in homes, suicides, domestic violence, assaults, fires, vehicle accidents, mass casualties and robberies are just some of the calls TIP receives day and night.
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Heroes with Heart: “We are also there to support our first responders, so they can focus on their jobs,” Stephanie continues, “Sometimes, when we are on these calls, we witness our first responders going above and beyond the call of duty, and we nominate that officer, firefighter, nurse, as a “Hero." Selected heroes are then celebrated at our annual Gala and Fundraiser HEROES WITH HEART.
“Honoring these Heroes and raising funds for TIP allows us to keep serving our community in greater ways during crisis,” adds Gretchen Sheppard, TIP’s Manager of Events. “We can’t do it alone though. We need your help," Gretchen pleads. “As a nonprofit organization, TIP relies on the generosity of sponsors to help continue their mission. Contributions go to train and equip volunteers, ensuring they are ready to respond at a moment’s notice to provide comfort, guidance, and necessary resources to those in their darkest hours.”
TIP’s upcoming HEROES WITH HEART Fundraiser and Gala celebrates 30 years of service in OC and will be held February 19th at the Anaheim Hilton. OC Sheriff Don Barnes is the Honorary Chair with music by Mark McGrath and Sugar Ray.
For tickets, sponsorships, and more information, or to volunteer with TIP, please visit www.tiporangecounty.org or email Gretchen@tiporangecounty.org.
“By supporting TIP directly or through our Heroes With Heart Gala, you will be impacting lives and improving the mental health of our community," states Gretchen. "Every dollar helps us reach more people in need, allowing us to be there when tragedy strikes.”
We are the trauma intervention program of Orange County. Please considering supporting our mission.
