Ryan Bunch

Ryan A. Bunch is TDC's Studio Director, a placemaking professional, writer, and advocate for community-driven urban design. He has led initiatives in Toledo to foster just, inclusive community engagement and civic design, aiming to reconnect neighborhoods and promote equity. Previously, he served as Senior Director of Outreach and Advocacy at United Way of Greater Toledo and Director of Community Initiatives at The Arts Commission, where he established Toledo's Creative Placemaking program, Forward Toledo’s Cultural Trail framework, and strengthened Toledo's 211 program. Ryan holds a B.A. in English from the University of Toledo, is a Nonprofit Administration alumnus of The Washington Center, a recipient of Toledo's 20 Under 40 Award, and is certified in Safegrowth and Scenario Planning for Urban Futures from U of M Nexus. He is actively involved with Welcome Toledo Lucas County and Reinvest Toledo.

Cathy de Haan

Cathy de Haan is TDC's Outreach and Development Coordinator. Cathy has over a decade of experience in the development of projects and non-profits organizations at the intersection of culture, architecture and technology that tackle socioeconomic challenges. She has developed numerous campaigns on issues such as economic inequality, ecological change, and migrant rights. Cathy holds a bachelor's degree from the University of the Arts In Utrecht (NL) and master's degree from Goldsmiths' College, University of London (UK), where she studied political economy, creative cities and grassroots activism.

Jesse Heider

Jesse Heider is a Toledo, Ohio native with more than 15 years of experience as a designer and event planner. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Bowling Green State University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media Design Practices from The University of Toledo. Jesse has served on multiple neighborhood boards throughout Toledo and brings extensive experience in creating community-driven neighborhood events and collaborative public initiatives. A strong advocate for the city, Jesse is passionate about design, placemaking, and civic engagement, and is committed to helping Toledo reach new heights through creative, inclusive, and community-centered work.

Manuel Mathis

Manuel Mathis is TDC’s Vacant Lot Reclamation Research & Engagement Coordinator and a strategic community leader focused on equity-driven urban revitalization, youth empowerment, and cross-sector collaboration. He brings experience in housing and neighborhood initiatives, advocacy, and community engagement in Toledo. Previously, Manuel served as a Housing & Neighborhood Project Coordinator with LISC AmeriCorps at the City of Toledo, where he supported resident engagement, and collaborated with local and governmental partners, including HUD. Manuel has contributed to initiatives with organizations such as United Way Toledo’s Community Impact Cabinet and the Reinvest Toledo Coalition, where he serves on the Voter Education Committee and participated in the Raised Voices Advocacy program. His leadership has been recognized with the Student in Leadership Action Award and the Youth Leader Award from the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County. Manuel is currently pursuing an Education Concentration Transfer at Owens Community College and is passionate about connecting communities with resources and amplifying local voices to support people-centered, sustainable change.