The Full Story
In 2024, AASP THEY MATTER created something simple yet deeply meaningful: the I PLEDGE TO STAY Tree. What began as a quiet offering—a space where individuals could take the pledge to stay alive and add their name—quickly became something more. To our surprise, heartfelt messages of gratitude began pouring in. People thanked us for giving them hope, for reminding them that their lives mattered.
Many of these individuals are living with a horrendous condition called Akathisia, a medication-induced state of inner restlessness that can be agonizing and misunderstood. Their suffering is profound, and their courage even greater.
Action and Awareness for Suicide Prevention (AASP THEY MATTER) exist today because of them.
At first, when branching off from another nonprofit, AASP THEY MATTER was simply an educational resource, built to support and inform those navigating this immense pain. But in 2025, we officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit—driven by the need to do more, to stand stronger for those who reached out, who shared their stories, and who pledged to stay. We now provide services to everyone instead of one specific group.
The I PLEDGE TO STAY Tree is more than a digital space. It is a symbol of survival, remembrance, and resilience. When our founder and co-founder were told their suicide prevention work wasn’t wanted by the organization they were helping build, they refused to let these voices be silenced. They stayed up through the night, rebuilding AASP THEY MATTER in a single day—so that if even one person came back to find their name on the tree, it would still be there, waiting for them.
We dedicate this tree to those brave souls.
We are here because of them.
They matter still and always will.
Take the Pledge to Stay
"I plan to stay alive. Even when this condition feels like it will never end, I promise to use the safety plan and I promise to stay with you all."
I PLEDGE TO STAY
Hard Copy Cards Now Available
We are excited to announce that our newly designed I PLEDGE TO STAY cards are now available in hard copy. These cards serve as a tangible reminder of your strength, purpose, and commitment to stay.
If you have already placed your name on our I PLEDGE TO STAY Tree, you are eligible to receive a physical card. Each card symbolizes hope and serves as a personal keepsake to remind you that your life matters and that you are not alone.
To request your card, please email us your FULL NAME, FULL ADDRESS. (We must have your entire address in order to ship you a hard copy)
If you have not yet placed your name on the tree, we invite you to join others in making your pledge today.
Together, we continue to grow a community rooted in hope, healing, and purpose. 10/17/25