Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Opening of Danielle’s Lighthouse in Mansfield

Nov 12, 2025 | News

Mansfield, Ohio – A new symbol of hope and healing will officially open its doors on Tuesday, November 18, at noon, as community partners gather to celebrate the ribbon cutting of Danielle’s Lighthouse, a 10-bed supportive housing and recovery site located at 87 E. First Street in Mansfield.

The Richland County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board played a leading role in the project’s planning, design, and development, ensuring the facility would meet community needs for supportive housing and recovery services. The Board selected Coleman Health Services to manage and operate Danielle’s Lighthouse, leveraging Coleman’s experience in providing person-centered mental health care and recovery supports across Ohio.

“This collaboration shows what can happen when a community comes together,” said Hattie Tracy, president and CEO of Coleman Health Services. “Danielle’s Lighthouse is not only a home but a message—that recovery, independence, and a positive destiny are always possible.”

The project honors the memory of Danielle “Dani” Leedy, whose life and legacy inspired her parents, Donna and Jeff Heck, to found the nonprofit 33 Forever—an organization created to honor Dani’s life and her longtime passions. In tribute to Dani’s life, 33 Forever is donating a custom mural and artwork installation to Danielle’s Lighthouse, creating a space that radiates compassion, resilience, and connection.

“We are deeply grateful to Donna and Jeff for their generosity and for allowing Danielle’s spirit to shine through this project,” said Sherry Branham-Fonner, executive director of the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Richland County. “This home will stand as a beacon of safety and hope for those rebuilding their lives.”

The renovation of Danielle’s Lighthouse was made possible through Ohio Department of Behavioral Health funding, which covered 90% of the costs, with additional support from local partners:

  • Amcrete generously provided a concrete pad at cost for an outdoor picnic area, offering a peaceful space for residents and visitors.
  • NAMI Ohio contributed $15,000 toward beautification and landscaping to enhance the outdoor environment.

Ribbon Cutting Details:

Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Location: Danielle’s Lighthouse, 87 E. First Street in Mansfield

Community members, partners, and media are invited to attend.

About the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Richland County

Founded in 1968, the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Richland County has partnering agencies that offer services to those struggling with mental illness and substance dependence. The mission of the Richland County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board is to secure sufficient funds to plan, establish and maintain unified services primarily for the mentally ill, drug or alcohol dependent individuals, their families and the general population

For more information, please visit www.richlandmentalhealth.com

About Coleman Health Services
Coleman Health Services is a nonprofit behavioral health organization serving 58 counties across Ohio. With a mission to foster recovery, build independence, and change destinies Coleman provides mental health care and substance use treatment as well as residential and employment services to more than 40,000 individuals annually.

For more information about Coleman Health Services and its accredited programs, visit www.colemanservices.org.

About 33 Forever
Founded in memory of Danielle Leedy, 33 Forever is a nonprofit organization based in Mansfield, Ohio, dedicated to supporting mental health advocacy, education, and suicide prevention. Learn more at www.333forever.life.