The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to shine a spotlight on Ann Dagle, co-founder of the Brian Dagle Foundation, in our Community Proud series, sponsored by CorePlus Credit Union. A longtime East Lyme resident, Ann has turned personal tragedy into a mission of hope, healing, and advocacy for mental health and suicide prevention.

In 2011, Ann and her husband, Paul, lost their son Brian to suicide. Out of that heartbreaking loss came the creation of the Brian Dagle Foundation in 2014, dedicated to grief support, suicide prevention, and mental health awareness. “When we started the non-profit, I had no idea how to do it,” Ann reflects. “But I knew I wanted to make sure no one ever felt alone in their grief.”

Anchored in hope, the Foundation provides support groups, education, and resources to people of all ages. Each month, more than 100 people walk through their doors seeking connection and comfort. Ann and her team—a program coordinator, a social media and outreach specialist, an administrative assistant, and a therapist—work tirelessly to make sure those who are grieving know that their feelings are normal, and that they are not alone.

Young adults are often already talking about mental health with their friends, and the Foundation helps provide resources to make those conversations more informed and impactful. For older adults, the Foundation emphasizes that mental health is as vital as physical health—reminding the community that our brain is an organ like any other.

Ann’s path to this work was a natural evolution from her career in fitness and wellness, where she worked as a personal trainer and yoga instructor. “Back then, I was teaching people how to take care of their bodies,” she shares. “Now I help people care for their hearts and souls.”

Her community involvement is extensive. She serves as a tri-chair of the Connecticut Suicide Advisory Board, helping to guide regional boards that work with schools, businesses, and organizations to further the conversation around prevention and awareness. The Brian Dagle Foundation has become a cornerstone for both the local community and the state of Connecticut.

For Ann, the most inspiring part of her work is witnessing resilience. “I have the honor of sitting with people in their deepest, darkest moments,” she says. “Over time, I see a little glimmer of light return, and I know somehow they are going to make it. It’s an honor when people trust me and the Foundation to walk alongside them.”

Outside of her work, Ann treasures time with her family, including her husband Paul, their family, and their pets. She finds peace in nature—walking on the beach, kayaking, gardening, and exploring local trails.

Ann’s advice to others looking to start non-profits is simple but powerful: “Get yourself out there. Meet people. Don’t be afraid to tell them what you do. Be proud of your mission.”

Through her unwavering dedication, Ann has transformed personal grief into a legacy of hope and connection. The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Ann Dagle for her incredible contributions to the community and for being a beacon of compassion, strength, and resilience.