TOLEDO – A new chapter in mental health care is opening in Lucas County with the introduction of Dani’s Place, a 17,000 square foot facility designed to help individuals transition from state hospital care back into the community.
The concept behind Dani’s Place began in 2019, when Scott Sylak, executive director of the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County, began discussions with National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Ohio about the need to develop a step-down option to support psychiatric patients leaving the state hospital system.
“Dani’s Place was meant to take some of these most acute folks that are now on the road to recovery due to their longer term stay in the hospital, move them into a more structured environment so that they have a better opportunity to succeed once placed in the community,” explained Sylak.
Construction of the building began in 2024 and concluded in June 2025. The facility was built with a focus on a home-like atmosphere with various resources. Dani’s Place has 16 private bedrooms along with other amenities including a library, group rooms, office space, and a small fitness area. Residents also have access to a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and outdoor courtyard.
Dani’s Place operates on a voluntary basis, meaning residents will choose whether to participate in the program rather than being required to do so. Residents will be allowed to stay for up to 90 days at the facility. During this time, residents will engage in individualized programming to help build practical skills, community interaction, and personal growth.
“We’re teaching them how to cook, we’re teaching them how to do laundry, we’re teaching them how to navigate the community, how to pay bills, and in addition to that, receiving mental health treatment,” said Bill Emahiser MA, LPCC-S, Director of Public Relations. The approach blends traditional therapy with hands-on learning opportunities to help prepare individuals for long term stability once they return to independent or group living.
Silvia Snyder, deputy director of Dani’s Place, described the program as a “mental health step down or rehab,” comparing it to physical rehabilitation after a serious injury. “People are going to have a little bit longer time to make sure that they have the skills that they need to be successful,” Snyder said. “We’re going to encourage group participation…activities like arts and crafts, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), some of those other treatment modalities too.”
Residents will work closely with case managers, therapists, and psychiatric professionals to build confidence and life skills necessary for a successful transition back into the community. The combination of therapy, skill building, and social engagement will provide a holistic approach to the resident’s recovery.
Dani’s Place carries a deep personal legacy. The facility is named in memory of Danielle “Dani” Leedy, who lost her battle with depression in 2019. Her parents, Jeff and Donna Heck, established the 33 Forever organization and contributed their support to the creation and design of the building.
“When you go to Dani’s place, you will see tributes to Dani throughout the facility. The internal design elements were all in lockstep with the whole Heck family,” said Sylak.
The facility will be operated by the Unison Behavioral Health Group who won the bid for the job. Sarah Gruner, Unison’s director of clinical projects, said, “Dani’s Place will provide a safe, stable environment for individuals to continue their healing and recovery journey before they return home.”
As Dani’s Place prepares to fully open in 2026, it stands as a collaborative effort between families, mental health professionals, and local organizations. More than just a building, it represents a bridge between hospitalization and home. A place where recovery, dignity, and hope can flourish. With its thoughtful design, supportive programs, and voluntary participation model, Dani’s Place plans to be a beacon of care for those taking their next steps.
