Training offered for trauma volunteers

PORTLAND — The Trauma Intervention Program of Portland and Vancouver is holding a training academy in January for people interested in becoming volunteers.

TIP is a group of specially-trained citizen volunteers who provide emotional support and practical resources to victims of traumatic events and their families in the first few hours following a tragedy.

In 2016, program volunteers responded to 2,838 incidents in the Portland and Vancouver area, according to TIP.

The 60-hour academy lasts two weeks. Following the academy, volunteers enter into three months of field training, during which they’re paired up with a more experienced volunteer.

Academies are typically held once or twice a year. Registration costs $50. Other requirements include having a working cellphone, internet access and an email account, as well as a valid driver’s license, GPS, and a fingerprinting and criminal background check.

The first academy is set for 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 10, at Portland Fire & Rescue Training Center, 4800 N.E. 122nd Ave., Portland. There’s also a separate teen training at the same time.

For more details about the trainings, visit tipnw.org or call 503-823-3937.