We are proud to share that the Fentanyl Free Communities Foundation (FFCF) has been selected as a recipient of the Stiles Financial Community Service Fund, a fund dedicated to supporting local nonprofits that focus on education and youth. This generous financial contribution will help us expand our outreach, education, and advocacy efforts to protect more lives.
About the Stiles Financial Community Service Fund
The Stiles Financial Community Service Fund was established by Susan M. Stiles, founder of Stiles Financial Services. The fund donates to local nonprofits, particularly those focusing on education and youth. Previous recipients include organizations like the Northside Boxing Club, a nonprofit boxing gym in North Minneapolis.
About Susan M. Stiles
- Susan M. Stiles is an MBA graduate of Cornell University, specializing in finance and accounting.
- She has been active as Chair of the Learning Center for Economics for many years.
- She strongly advocates education, financial literacy, and economic education.
A Conversation with Glenn Gray on Be In the Know Podcast
To mark this recognition, FFCF Chair Michele Hein recently joined Glenn Gray on the Be In the Know podcast to discuss the foundation’s mission, the growing fentanyl crisis, and the importance of public awareness and action.
A Mission Fueled by Personal Tragedy
During the interview, Michele shared the heartbreaking story of losing her son, Tyler, to fentanyl poisoning at the age of 23. A former athlete, United States Marine, and aspiring yoga teacher, Tyler’s life was tragically cut short by a single counterfeit pill. This devastating loss inspired Michele to co-found the Fentanyl Free Communities Foundation in 2023 alongside Paul Ostrow, turning her grief into action to save lives.
Fentanyl Affects Every Community
Michele emphasized that fentanyl does not discriminate—it affects individuals from all backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses. Many people are unaware of just how pervasive and deadly fentanyl has become, which is why education, advocacy, and harm reduction efforts are essential in every community.
Be Prepared: Access to Countermeasures
One of Michele’s key messages in the interview is the importance of making life-saving resources widely available. Naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and public awareness campaigns are critical tools in preventing fatal overdoses. She urges individuals, families, and local communities to take action and ensure these resources are accessible.
How You Can Help
Michele encourages everyone to get involved in the fight against fentanyl by:
- Volunteering for advocacy, education, and outreach programs.
- Hosting awareness events in schools, workplaces, and communities.
- Supporting policy initiatives to combat fentanyl distribution.
- Carrying naloxone and learning how to use it to save lives.
If you or someone you know needs support or information, the Fentanyl Free Communities Foundation is here to help. Reach out to us at FentanylFreeCommunities.org for guidance and resources.
Thank You to Stiles Financial Services
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Stiles Financial Services for selecting the Fentanyl Free Communities Foundation as a recipient of the Community Service Fund. Their support helps amplify our reach, ensuring that more people receive the education and resources needed to prevent fentanyl-related tragedies.
Watch the Full Interview
For an inspiring conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the fight to end fentanyl poisoning, watch the full interview with Michele Hein on the Be In the Know podcast.
“We fight because Tyler was a fighter, and he would want us to.” – Michele Hein
