Founded in 1985, Self-Help Network was started by Evelyn Middelstadt, a Wichita social worker who recognized the special support and understanding that occurred in self-help groups when she brought together parents of special needs children.

Driven to create a community organization people could call to get information about support groups of all kinds, she used her personal savings to visit and learn from other self-help group clearinghouses in the country and start a Wichita area clearinghouse.

In 1986, the Network had grown considerably and, due to her personal responsibilities in caring for her elderly mother, she decided to seek an alternative home for Self-Help Network. The Network was transferred to the Department of Psychology at WSU under the direction of Dr. Greg Meissen, a professor of psychology, who had been working with Evelyn since the beginning.

At WSU, the Network flourished through the enthusiasm and dedication of lots of volunteers, as well as students and staff.

Self-Help Network became a statewide organization in 1989. From the many things we from self-help groups as well as our strengths in conducting research and running an effective organization, the Network soon began to receive requests for assistance from nonprofit organizations and community-based efforts to provide assistance and support in creating and implementing a shared vision for the future and conducting user-friendly outcome and impact evaluations.

In the late 90's, with the guidance of our Community Advisory Council, the Self-Help Network expanded its vision and mission to become Wichita State University's Center for Community Support and Research.