Las Vegas Seeks Spanish-Speaking Trauma Support Volunteers

When tragedy strikes in Las Vegas, volunteers from the Trauma Intervention Program of Southern Nevada show up to offer comfort in the moments that matter most. Now, after a record-breaking year of helping families through their darkest hours, the organization needs more Spanish-speaking volunteers to serve Clark County's growing community.

The numbers tell the story of a city in need. TIP volunteers responded to nearly 2,000 crisis scenes last year, providing emotional and practical support to families, witnesses, and bystanders in the immediate aftermath of traumatic events. That breaks down to five or six responses every single day.

"They call us out to scenes of tragedy, usually after someone dies, and we're able to provide emotional and practical support to the family members or friends, witnesses, bystanders, whoever might be affected by that crisis," explains Chief Executive Officer Jill Roberts.

The organization's mission is simple but powerful. Volunteers arrive when first responders call them, offering a steady presence and helping people navigate the shock of sudden loss. They connect families with resources, make phone calls, and simply sit with people who need someone to care.

Why This Inspires

Prestley Quintana knows exactly what TIP volunteers can mean to someone in crisis. She witnessed a fatal motorcycle accident where a teenage boy died at the scene. While staying with the young victim and comforting her own son who was present, a TIP volunteer supported her through those difficult moments.

That experience changed her life. Quintana became a bilingual volunteer herself, turning her pain into purpose. "There's a need in this community, we need more Spanish speakers, we have a lot of survivors on the scene that would really benefit from that," she says.

The organization emphasizes that no special background is required. Medical training isn't necessary. Crisis counseling certification isn't needed. The biggest requirement to volunteer is compassion, something Roberts says matters more than any credential.

For Spanish-speaking residents of Clark County, having a volunteer who speaks their language during a traumatic moment can make all the difference in feeling heard and supported.