08/31/2026
Community Proud ❤️ Celebrating those who live and work among us. Brought to you by Charter Oak Federal Credit Union
Jessica Britagna
Light the Way – Boating Safety Connecticut
Jessica is the Founder and President of Light the Way, Inc., a Connecticut non-profit dedicated to improving boating and water safety through , , 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 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.
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.
To learn more about Jessica and previous Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce Community Proud recipients, go to mysticchamber.org/community-proud
