Building Bright Futures

Build a Brighter Future for the Children in Douglas County by Helping Heartland Expand Access to Pediatric Psychiatry and Mental Health Services.

Heartland is calling on the generosity of individuals, corporations, and philanthropic organizations to support the ‘Building Bright Futures’ campaign. All donations will directly fund the construction and operation of the Behavioral Health Building, making a tangible impact on the mental health of the Douglas County community.

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Heartland Seeks to Expand Psychiatry and Mental Health Services

Heartland Community Health Center is pleased to announce the significant expansion of its Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services, underscoring its commitment to promoting mental well-being in the community. The expansion will have a pediatric focus and is set to include the introduction of additional experienced psychiatrists and licensed therapists along with construction of a designated building to provide trauma informed care to be completed by September 2024.

Heartland Community Health Center is welcoming Dr. Nick Evangelidis who will be joining the staff in August 2023. Dr. Nick Evangelidis is a Board-Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist and a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. He graduated from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and attended undergraduate school at the University of Kansas. Most recently, Dr. Nick served as the Medical Director and Psychiatrist at Katies Way in Manhattan, KS. Dr. Nick practices evidence-based psychiatric care with compassion and kindness. He provides experience in assessment, and medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults with a wide range of behavioral health needs. Dr. Nick enjoys developing positive relationships with individuals and their families, while guiding the treatment plan to the individual.

“I am excited for my journey with child psychiatry to come full circle by joining Heartland and returning to the Lawrence community. I have had some wonderful discussions with the leadership at Heartland during this process and I look forward to being a part of this bright future for Heartland.” said Dr. Evangelidis. “I shadowed the beloved Dr. Charles Loveland when I was in college at KU so returning to Panda Pediatrics is a unique opportunity for me. I endeared his interactions with his patients, and the experience helped me know I wanted to work primarily with children. My time at KU directed me toward the field of child psychiatry with so many wonderful mentors to guide me along the way.”

"Heartland has always been committed to delivering high-quality care to our community, and over the years we have seen a rise in demand for Behavioral Health services." said Julie Branstrom, the Chief Executive Officer of Heartland. "This expansion is a reflection of that commitment, as we recognize the crucial role mental health plays in overall health. We're not just increasing access to care, but also creating a space where people feel comfortable seeking help."

Meet "Dr. Nick"

Dr. Nick Evangelidis is a Board-Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist and a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. He graduated from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and attended undergraduate school at the University of Kansas. He went on to complete his residency in psychiatry and fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina.

“Dr. Nick” initially joined the medical staff at Via Christi in Manhattan in 2015. He served as Department Chair of Psychiatry and held a position on the Medical Executive Committee for Via Christi hospital. During his time at Via Christi, he initiated the outpatient child and adolescent behavioral health department and assisted in the consult liaison service for Via Christi hospital.

“I shadowed the beloved Dr. Charles Loveland when I was in college at KU so returning to Panda Pediatrics is a unique opportunity for me. I endeared his interactions with his patients, and the experience helped me know I wanted to work primarily with children. My time at KU directed me toward the field of child psychiatry with so many wonderful mentors to guide me along the way.”

Most recently, Dr. Nick served as the Medical Director and Psychiatrist at Katie’s Way in Manhattan, KS. At Katie’s Way, he continued to focus on delivering outpatient psychiatric services for those primarily 4 to 26 years old. After he helped initiate the deep TMS program at Katie’s Way, he transitioned to be the medical director and assisted in Katie’s Way expanding into providing medication management for all ages. He provided TMS consultation services for adults as well.

“I am excited for my journey with child psychiatry to come full circle by joining Heartland and returning to the Lawrence community. I have had some wonderful discussions with the leadership at Heartland during this process and I look forward to being a part of this bright future for Heartland.”

More Ways to Help

Fighting Food Insecurity

At Heartland we believe food is medicine. That’s why we have the Care Cupboard, an on-site pantry full of healthy foods. Donations accepted at the Care Cupboard entrance during operating hours.

Kansas Half-Marathon & 5k

Recognized as a premier race at both the state and national level. Click here to learn more about how to sign up for the race! You can also donate to help Heartland increase access to affordable health care.

Rx that Give Back

River City Pharmacy is now open to the public. As a 340B pharmacy, when you use your health insurance at River City, these funds are reinvested to increase access to affordable, comprehensive health care for all.

Send a Gift

We are confident that your generosity matters and makes a difference in the lives of those we serve. Your gift will support Heartland in providing health care for all and we continue to expand and serve more patients than ever before. You may send your donation directly to Heartland Community Health Center at 1312 W 6th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.