Manahan

When people are given space to grow, their gifts can change the world around them. What started as an idea has become a shared journey—one shaped by creativity, belonging, and the hope of what’s possible when a community comes together. This page is a window into that vision. It’s where you’ll see dreams taking shape, partnerships blooming, and the remarkable ways our individuals are creating, learning, and leading. You’ll also see the impact of every person who chooses to support this work. Together, we’re building more than an art studio or a greenhouse... We’re cultivating a future where everyone thrives, finds community, and where every story has a place to be seen.

Our partnership with Free Bird Studios has given our individuals a strong and inspiring foundation in ceramics. Through a blend of one-on-one instruction and supportive group learning, artists have had the chance to explore hand-building, try their hands at wheel work, and experiment with new techniques that spark creativity and confidence. Morgan Ramsdell, the owner, artist, and creator of Freebird Studios, has provided us a space to learn at their own pace, encouragement from a professional artist, and the joy of creating something that is uniquely their own. These early experiences are helping shape the skills and excitement that will carry into the Root & Clay art studio once it opens, and they remind us how powerful hands-on learning can be.

As Root & Clay continues to expand, emotional wellness has become an essential part of the foundation we’re building. You cannot give others a 100% if you aren't at 100% yourself!

Our partnership with the Toledo Mindfulness Institute has brought meaningful depth to that work. Under the guidance of Isabella Weich, individuals are learning practical tools for stress management, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping—skills that strengthen confidence both in and beyond our programs. Isabella’s thoughtful approach has created a space where participants feel supported, seen, and empowered to understand their own emotions. These mindfulness sessions are helping our individuals navigate daily stresses with calm and intention, adding a vital layer of growth to the Root & Clay journey.

Our work with Outdoor Sylvania has added a hands-on, nature-based dimension to the Roots & Clay experience. Through guided sessions, individuals are learning about native plants, how to cultivate and care for them, and what it means to tend the environment with kindness and respect. These experiences give our participants the chance to dig in—literally—while building skills they’ll carry into our future greenhouse programs.

A special part of this partnership has been reconnecting with Dawson Howard, who first came to Manahan as a high school volunteer and is now leading us through these lessons in his role with Outdoor Sylvania. His return feels like a homecoming, and his leadership has helped create meaningful, hands-on learning moments that strengthen both confidence and connection.