About The MILES Group

Born from loss. Built for prevention.

The MILES Group was founded after the loss of our son, Miles, to fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills. In the midst of unimaginable grief, we made a commitment: no family should have to walk through addiction, stigma, or silence alone.

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Miles Gamez holding an orange-and-white cat outdoors.

TURNING PAIN INTO PURPOSE

Integrity, creativity, and empathy shape the way we work. These aren't just words—they’re the foundation of everything we build. We believe in doing great work, building real relationships, and making it easy for you to get the results you’re looking for.

Our Story

Why We Do This Work

Prevention starts

with conversation.

We stand in schools, libraries, and community spaces having honest conversations about substance use and mental health.

We create environments where difficult topics are welcomed, not avoided — where youth feel safe asking questions, sharing struggles, and building coping skills that strengthen their future.

Our Approach

  • Open book icon representing education and informed learning.

    Evidence-Informed Education

  • Person meditating with a heart icon representing mindfulness and grounding.

    Mindful Grounding

  • Group with speech bubble icon representing youth discussion and connection.

    Youth-Led Discussion

  • Hands holding a heart icon representing compassion and stigma reduction.

    Stigma Reduction

  • Mountain and flag icon representing leadership development and personal growth.

    Leadership Development

Where Prevention Happens

  • Students participating in an educational presentation in a classroom.

    School-Based Education

    • 45-minute prevention presentations

    • Mental health awareness

    • Substance use education

    • Leadership development

  • Community members connecting during an outreach event.

    Community Programs

    • Weekly youth groups

    • Library & YMCA programs

    • Art & discussion circles

    • Peer connection activities

MILES Group representatives Melinda and Matt Gamez at a community outreach event.
MILES Group representatives Melinda and Matt Gamez at a community outreach event.

The Founders of the MILES Group

Melinda & Matthew Gamez

Founded by parents and prevention advocates, The MILES Group blends lived experience with evidence-informed education to create meaningful impact for youth and families.