In the aftermath of a sudden death, family members of the victim often have to speak with police, medical personnel and a raft of other emergency response officials. Volunteers with the Trauma Intervention Program want to make sure they also speak with a caring neighbor who is there to lend a hand.

TIP was founded in 1985 as a way to provide trauma-informed support in the wake of sudden tragedies such as car accidents, overdoses, suicides and other unexpected deaths. Trained volunteers are called to the scene by police, paramedics or other first responders to talk with loved ones of the victim and connect them with secondary services.

The organization now has 15 affiliates across the country, the newest of which will serve Lane County. Bridget Byfield is a former TIP volunteer and program director for TIP of Lane County. She joins us to talk about the benefits of providing “emotional first aid” in the first few hours after a tragedy.