Transforming Generations.
Redefining Systems.
Cultivating Supportive Communities.
A recognized leader in true evidence-based solutions.
What Makes Us Unique?
Our Mission
We need to see success to believe it, and we aim for just that, observable change that promotes positive life outcomes. CSC is dedicated to advancing data-driven and pragmatic behavioral health services for children, youth, and families. We work upstream to prevent complex problems from occurring while implementing evidence-based interventions to create positive change.
Using behavior science methodologies to create opportunities and meaningful change for children, families, and communities.
Sustainable Impacts
Real change happens when we go beyond quick fixes and transform the systems that shape our communities. At CSC, we believe in our capacity as a society to work together, to identify our most pressing challenges, and to implement solutions that benefit whole families and entire communities.
Our History and Milestones
We have served Douglas County children, families, and schools for over 40 years through our SupportEd program.
1977
A Pioneering Initiative Begins
District Judge Mike Elwell of Douglas County, Kansas, sparks a proactive community movement to curb juvenile crime—starting in the classroom. Through an innovative partnership, University of Kansas (KU) students are stepping up as mentors, working one-on-one with truant high schoolers to provide personalized support and academic tutoring. By keeping students engaged in school, this initiative is breaking barriers, building futures, and creating a stronger, safer community.
1978
Strengthening the Foundation
KU Professor, Jan B. Sheldon, PhD, JD, integrates the volunteer mentoring program within the Department of Applied Behavioral Science (formerly the Department of Human Development and Family Life), establishing it as an undergraduate practicum course for students studying Youth Development and Juvenile Justice. Dr. Sheldon re-designs the program to incorporate research-backed strategies including attendance monitoring, positive reinforcement, therapeutic mentoring, engagement with whole families and schools, interagency collaboration, ongoing data review, and court back-up through informal truancy review hearings. The program becomes known as the KU Truancy Prevention and Diversion Program (TPDP).
1979
The Program Gains Official Recognition
The KU program launches with its inaugural group of practicum students serving all Douglas County high schools.
1982
Strategic Partnership Expands Program to Younger Students
Dr. Sheldon partners with the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services, which assigns a dedicated social worker to assist with program operations. This strategic partnership paves the way for expansion, bringing the program to all elementary and middle schools across Douglas County.
2012
Douglas County Steps Up To Ensure Continued Student Success
The Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services is replaced by the Department for Children and Families (DCF), and state funding for the program is cut. Pam Weigand, Director of Douglas County Criminal Justice Services, steps up and appoints a juvenile services officer to continue program operations. Thanks to local leadership and commitment, the initiative continued to provide critical support for youth, proving that community-driven solutions can withstand even the toughest challenges
2014
A New Era Begins
Dr. Sheldon accepts Kelsey Dachman as a graduate student and appoints her as a graduate teaching and research assistant with the program.
2020
Pandemic Pivots
The COVID-19 pandemic forces school closures. Kelsey completes her PhD, and Dr. Sheldon welcomes Madison Graham as a graduate student. The team makes critical adjustments in service delivery and prepares for virtual implementation. Dr. Sheldon retires after a 44-year tenure at KU.
2021
The Legacy Continues
KU institutes a pandemic-related hiring freeze and withdraws support from the program. Kelsey and Madison establish the Center for Supportive Communities. Dr. Sheldon and Pam Weigand join the Board of Directors. The team begins transitioning the program.
2022
The Program Endures
The team launches SupportEd in August.
Our Impact
“The staff and leadership are exceptional professionals. They are responsive to the needs of the youth and families they serve, while working to create a context of success with school districts and other community-based organizations. Expect to be impressed by the work done by this group.”
"Center for Supportive Communities has positively impacted the lives of so many, changing the trajectory of youth that need their support most, as well as their families and schools. CSC is invested in continually improving their programs, measuring the results, building their brand, and pushing forward new initiatives to create an even bigger impact."
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