Justice Speaks Podcast Episode #49

In this episode of Justice Speaks, JSI Co-President David Wallace interviews Briana McCulloch, Executive Director of the Kailee Mills Foundation. Briana shares her journey, the foundation’s impactful programs, and the powerful legacy of her niece, Kailee Mills, whose tragic loss inspired a mission to promote seat belt safety and save lives.

Born and raised in Texas, Briana McCulloch built a career rooted in purpose. After earning a finance degree and working in accounting, she shifted her focus to nonprofit work, starting with the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Her desire to make a meaningful impact led her to the Kailee Mills Foundation, where she now serves as Executive Director, using her skills to save lives and support families.

Kailee Mills’ Legacy 

The foundation honors Kailee Mills, who tragically lost her life in a car crash when she unbuckled her seat belt to take a photo. The Mills family turned their grief into action, launching an awareness campaign that started locally and quickly gained national attention. Their message resonated so strongly that the Texas Department of Transportation adopted Kailee’s story for its “Click It or Ticket” campaign, resulting in record-breaking outreach success.

The Foundation’s Mission

The Kailee Mills Foundation aims to prevent traffic fatalities and injuries by educating the public about seat belt safety. Its key programs include:

• College Scholarships: Offering scholarships to students who raise awareness about seat belt safety in their communities, empowering them to become advocates.

• Seat Belt Awareness Campaigns: Partnering with schools, communities, and first responders to increase seat belt use and understanding of its importance.

• Kailee Cares Family Assistance: Providing financial and emotional support to families affected by traffic crashes, including grief counseling and medical cost assistance.

The Seat Belt Ribbon

The foundation’s iconic mint green ribbon—Kailee’s favorite color—symbolizes seat belt safety. This visible reminder has sparked countless conversations and raised awareness across the nation. 

 The Importance of Wearing Seat Belts

Briana underscores the need for consistent seat belt use, regardless of distance or seat location. She highlights alarming statistics, including that 90% of teen traffic fatalities occur without seat belts and the global loss of 750,000 lives annually in seat belt-related crashes.

Making an Impact

Through school programs, community outreach, and partnerships with first responders, the foundation has achieved remarkable success. From measurable increases in seat belt use to personal stories of lives saved, Kailee’s legacy continues to grow.

Briana reflects, “Kailee’s story is saving lives. Her legacy is alive and making a difference in our community, our state, and beyond.” 

For More Information

To learn more about the Kailee Mills Foundation or access resources on seat belt safety, visit their website or YouTube channel.  

You can watch this interview by going to the Justice Speakers Institutes’ YouTube Channel or by clicking HERE.