i understand is a non-profit organization that offers compassionate comfort to those affected by suicide and mental illness. i understand was created by Vonnie Woodrick in 2014 in loving memory of her husband Rob who lost his battle with depression in 2003.

i understand provides compassionate comfort to individuals and communities by: Hosting monthly educational awareness events in West Michigan Hosting a free, monthly support group in Grand Rapids, Michigan for those who have lost a loved one by suicide Providing speaking engagements on the topic of mental health and life after losing a loved one by suicide Hosting weekly, "Be the One" podcast with Aaron & Vonnie. Hosting free, monthly support group/conversations for the caregiver. Hosting free weekly walks to "Get Up, Get Out for the Health of it. Definition Petition - change the conversation by understanding through our Definition Petition "i understand pain, love and healing after suicide," a book written by our founder, Vonnie Woodrick, with Foreword written by Mariel Hemingway

Through a partnership with Spectrum Health's Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, i understand funded a full-time clinical nurse specialist position, effective July 2017. This groundbreaking role is the first of its kind in the country. Nurse Ashleigh Kearns is dedicated to educating hospital staff on mental health and providing patients and families with educational resources, emotional support and i understand care packages following a mental health crisis.

i understand mental health care packages are currently distributed at the following locations: Helen DeVos Children's Hospital (Grand Rapids, MI) network 180 - Mobile Crisis Unit (Grand Rapids, MI) Ada Township Fire Department (Ada, MI)