The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to shine a spotlight on Jessica Britagna in our “Community Proud” series, sponsored by Charter Oak Credit Union. Jessica is the Founder and President of Light the Way, Inc., a Connecticut non-profit dedicated to improving boating and water safety through education, advocacy, community partnerships, and public awareness.

Light the Way began with a promise following an unimaginable loss. On September 2, 2024, Jessica’s son, Ryan Britagna, and his friends, Christopher Hallahan and Ian, lost their lives in the Saybrook Breakwater boating accident. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Jessica committed herself to helping prevent other families from experiencing the same devastating loss. That commitment became Light the Way.

Jessica has lived in southeastern Connecticut her entire life. For her, this area is defined by its people, its shoreline, and its strong sense of community. When her family needed support, the community surrounded them with compassion. That response continues to inspire Jessica to give back, help others, and build an organization capable of protecting future generations.

As Founder and President, Jessica provides the vision and leadership that guide Light the Way. Her work has grown to include advocacy, educational programming, public outreach, and partnerships with schools, libraries, camps, first responders, elected officials, boating organizations, marine professionals, businesses, and community groups.

Jessica believes that one of the best opportunities to save a life comes long before an emergency occurs. Through school visits, library programs, community presentations, safety events, and public outreach, she helps children and families understand the importance of life jacket use, responsible boating, water awareness, and making safe decisions near the water.

One of her most recognizable partners in this work is Bay, Connecticut’s Water Safety Dog. Together, Jessica and Bay visit schools, libraries, camps, and community events, helping children connect with lifesaving lessons in a way that is positive, approachable, and memorable.

Jessica is also the author of “Bay the Connecticut Water Safety Dog,” a children’s book designed to encourage conversations about water safety among children, parents, educators, and caregivers. The book extends the organization’s educational mission beyond individual programs and gives families a resource they can revisit together.

Education is only one part of Jessica’s work. She also collaborates with legislators, public safety agencies, boating organizations, and community leaders to support practical improvements that make Connecticut’s waterways safer. Her advocacy has contributed to stronger boating safety legislation, improved navigational safety, and greater public awareness throughout the state.

Jessica understands that lasting change requires people to work together. She takes pride in bringing individuals and organizations together to form partnerships that can make a positive impact. Light the Way has worked with local schools, first responders, chambers of commerce, and prominent partners including the Boston Red Sox, Dime Bank, and WFSB to expand the reach of its water safety message.

At the heart of each partnership is trust. Jessica approaches her work by being genuine, listening carefully, and following through on her commitments. She believes people respond to authenticity, especially when the work is rooted in a mission as personal and important as protecting children and families.

Ryan’s memory continues to inspire Jessica every day. Through grief, she found the strength to create something that could protect others. Through collaboration, she has built a growing network of volunteers, educators, first responders, officials, businesses, and supporters who believe in the mission.

Jessica’s family remains at the center of her life and her work. In addition to leading Light the Way, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, exploring the shoreline, attending community events, and relaxing at home. She is also passionate about working with Bay and finding new ways to help children stay safe.

For Jessica, being recognized through the Community Proud series is an acknowledgment not only of her work, but also of every person who has supported Light the Way. She is especially grateful for her family, the organization’s volunteers, and its many community partners.

Light the Way is not defined by one tragic day. It is defined by everything Jessica and her community have built since. Each program, partnership, conversation, and act of advocacy helps create safer waterways while preserving the memories of Ryan, Christopher, and Ian.

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Jessica for her courage, leadership, and dedication to protecting others. Her ability to turn grief into purpose represents what it means to be Community Proud.