About Us
Who We Are
MILES 2 HEART is more than just an organization—it’s a movement fueled by compassion, community, and determination. We believe in the power of perseverance to create meaningful change. When it’s helping individuals experiencing homelessness , we are committed to transforming lives with every step we take.
Our Values
Compassion
We treat everyone with kindness, respect, and dignity.
Unity
We bring people together to address critical needs and create lasting change.
Perseverance
We push forward, mile by mile, to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.
Our Story
MILES 2 HEART began as a vision inspired by personal struggles and heartfelt determination. Witnessing the challenges faced by unhoused individuals, our founders wanted to make a difference. Combining their love for running with their passion for community service, they created MILES 2 HEART. Every step represents hope, unity, and a brighter future for those in need.
Kiea Cooks - Founder/CEO
Kiea Cooks is the founder of Miles 2 Hearts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping unhoused individuals across the country. With a unique perspective as both a passionate runner and a seasoned truck driver, Kiea has traveled extensively and witnessed the struggles faced by those without shelter. Her journey began with a heartfelt mission: to assemble and distribute essential kits to those in need. Today, she is expanding her efforts through Miles 2 Hearts to make a lasting impact on communities nationwide.
Kathryn Julian - Project manager
Kathryn Julian is a Chicago-based project manager with a portfolio specializing in events and commercialization. Kathryn's first foray into event planning and project management began with the natural hair care startup, tgin, coordinating and executing marketing events, developing new product lines and planning the annual non-profit fundraiser for breast cancer: Cocktails for the Cure. Currently, Kathryn manages commercialization projects for the sweet snack industry, handling the bustling portfolios of Mother's Cookies, Famous Amos, and Little Brownie Bakers. Outside of her role in commercialization, Kathryn is driven to create in any way possible including designing board games, creating her own recipes, and supporting growing nonprofits by aiding in planning their events. Kathryn Julian is honored to be part of the event team for Miles 2 Hearts and cannot wait to bring the mission to life.
Morgan Allen - Board of secretary
Morgan Allen is an Event Manager for Vision to Learn at Bank of America under the education pillar. She has collaborated with a diverse team of volunteers, local organizations, and educational institutions to create engaging programs that inspire and empower young learners. From coordinating back-to-school supply drives to hosting workshops that promote digital literacy. As an Event lead/manager she is it equipped to effectively plan and execute large-scale events while maintaining a focus on our core values of integrity, teamwork, and responsibility.
Vinisha knight - Board president
Vinisha Knight serves as the President of the Board of Miles2Hearts bringing 15 years of leadership experience in business admin currently a successful business owner. In this role, Vinisha oversees the strategic direction, governance, and operations of the board, ensuring the organization fulfills its mission to transform lives. A seasoned business owner and organization leader, Vinisha has a track record of success in business development, team building, marketing, sales, business administration, networking. Vinisha is passionate about impacting the lives of the less fortunate through community involvement and charitable movements. In addition to her work with Miles2Hearts, Vinisha is active and serving the community with her local church, and a local program Peace for poverty. Vinisha holds two bachelor’s degrees in healthcare management and business administration from Winston Salem State University. Outside of her professional commitments, Vinisha enjoys being a boymom of 4 and a breeder of designer dogs. Playing chess is a favorite pastime and indulgence in anything that brings a sense of relaxation.