A Beer With: Vonnie Woodrick – Founder & President of i understand

I’m so excited to kick off this “A Beer With” series again on The GR Guide! Today I’m sharing an interview with Vonnie Woodrick, Founder & President of i understand. If you aren’t familiar with i understand this non-profit organization offers compassion and comfort to those who are affected by mental illness and suicide. I’m so inspired by the mission of i understand and what they are doing in our community to raise awareness. Scroll down for my interview with Vonnie to learn more.

1. What inspired you to start i understand?

Death by suicide and mental health illnesses are not easily talked about. I felt very alone after the death of my husband and wanted to bring comfort and understanding to those who have had similar experience to mine and build a sense of community and comfort. i understand is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and was founded in 2014. Learn more about this organization’s work in our community and how you can get involved or support: iunderstandloveheals.com

2. How can people get involved with i understand?

The Pink Heart Project is well underway – it takes only one person to understand, will you be the one? A $1 donation will provide you with a pink heart to let someone know they are not alone. The hearts are at local retail stores and during National Suicide Prevention month in September they will be available at participating Biggby locations. It’s an easy way to get involved and evoke conversation.

Other ways for people to get involved with is joining our wear, care, share campaign which is wearing  shirts to evoke conversation, wear a shirt – get the conversation started! We also hold monthly free community events and free survivor of loss monthly support group. Check out our Instagram and Facebook page, we welcome comments and conversation. #iunderstandloveheals  #ThePinkHeartProject

3.  Do you have any tips for talking with friends or family about mental health or depression?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and keep them open-ended – such as – I noticed you’ve been quiet lately, are you feeling okay? Let them know that you care and mental health and depression are real issues that can’t be ignored. Asking if they are suicidal or if your loved ones has a plan, can save their life.

4. Do you have advice for talking with a friend who lost a loved one to suicide?

After a loss of a loved one to death by suicide it is extremely difficult to find the right words. Let your friend know that you are there for them in a non-judging supportive way. Often times listening to someone is the best thing you can do for them.

5. How can people learn more about mental health resources here in West Michigan?

We have several resources on our website – www.iunderstandloveheals.com. We also provide resources in our care packages, support groups and our community events.

6. Tell me more about the mental health care package program?

In partnership with Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital we created a care package to provide compassionate comfort for those who have had a mental health crisis or have experienced a loss due to suicide. These packages have items that we hope will bring support, understanding and allow them to know they are not alone and there are resources available to help.

7. Do you have any events coming up soon?

We have launched The Pink Heart Project and we will be selling pink hearts at all monetary levels to raise awareness. The campaign will run July through September letting people know; we all only need one person to understand. Then asking the question – will you be the one?

On September 10th we will be in Rosa Parks Circle from 11 AM – 8 PM for Pink Heart Day that will include many activities, our Butterfly Award presentation, community resource booths, food and music to bring conversation in everyday places.

Each third Wednesday of the month we hold a support group for those who have lost a loved one to death by suicide from 6:30 – 8 pm at Fountain Street Church.

8. What do you love most about Grand Rapids?

There is so much to love about Grand Rapids it’s hard to pick one thing, but if I have to – it’s the people! I have met the most interesting, caring, supportive and loving people and am very grateful to each one that has touched my life.

9. Favorite Michigan beer?

I love the sunshine so with it’s smiling face sun logo – Bell’s Oberon is my top pick!