Understood

Understood is a nonprofit organization that turns trusted knowledge about ADHD, dyslexia, and other forms of neurodivergence into clear guidance, practical tools, and community support. According to the organization, it reaches more than 20 million people each year who are navigating learning and thinking differences, whether they are just starting out or have been seeking answers for years.

The organization’s resources are organized around the needs of people who learn and think differently, along with the people around them. Understood describes its focus as helping people at home, at school, and at work, and its programs have grown from an initial focus on families to broader audiences including young adults, educators, and a workplace initiative.

Understood’s origin story is central to how it describes itself. More than 30 years ago, co-founders Fred and Nancy Poses began their own journey to understand their son Max’s neurodivergence. Nancy searched for answers and found that even with many resources available, it was difficult to know what to trust or what to do next. The family realized millions of others were looking for the same clarity, and in 2014 they created what hadn’t existed before.

That effort has grown into a national nonprofit. Understood states that it has a team of 90+ experts in education, psychology, and neurodivergence, and that every resource is vetted before it reaches users. The organization frames its work around a simple promise: that people can trust what they find there.

Understood’s mission is stated plainly on its website: it exists so no one has to navigate neurodivergence alone. The organization says it is working toward a future where people can navigate neurodivergence with clarity, in a world that understands them, because when people feel understood, so much more becomes possible. Its materials address ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more.

In job postings, Understood describes five core values that shape its hiring and culture: continuously learn, act with intention, champion difference, inspire change, and grow together. The organization also describes itself as having an entrepreneurial spirit and a shared commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. It encourages applicants of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds to apply.

Understood is led by CEO and co-founder Fred Poses, with Nancy Poses serving as chair of the board and co-founder. Its leadership team also includes co-president and chief marketing officer Nathan Friedman and chief people and culture officer Seda Prezioso. The organization publicly shares benefits for team members that include medical, dental, vision, and fertility coverage, retirement matching with immediate vesting, flexible paid time off with winter and summer breaks, and parental, medical, and family leave.