Prevention and youth development on Detroit's Westside
The Center for Urban Youth and Family Development (CUYFD) works with young people, families, schools, and faith communities in northwest Detroit. We prevent substance misuse, support mental health, and prepare youth for school, work, and adulthood. All of our programs are free.
CUYFD at a glance
Founded in 2009 by Marsialle Arbuckle, Sr. and Marseille Arbuckle, Jr.
More than 1,000 youth served in 2025
Serving the 48204, 48235, and 48238 ZIP codes
A community coalition with members from 12 sectors
What we do
Substance misuse prevention: Evidence-based programs in schools, with families, and across the community.
Mental health and suicide prevention: Workshops and training that teach people to recognize warning signs and connect others to help.
Youth development and workforce readiness: Summer and year-round programs that build life skills and prepare young people for careers.
Youth in foster care: Priority enrollment and support for youth in or aging out of foster care, where CUYFD's work began.
Join the CUYFD Coalition
The CUYFD Coalition brings together parents, youth, schools, faith leaders, healthcare providers, businesses, and law enforcement to reduce youth substance use on the Westside. The coalition meets monthly. Its website has meeting information, local data, and ways to get involved.
Programs
Summer Youth Development Program: Life skills, college and career exposure, and prevention training for youth ages 14–21.
Future Ready Detroit: A four-Saturday career readiness program with Ford Philanthropy volunteers.
Youth Advisory Council: High school students who lead CUYFD's youth prevention work.
School Partnerships: Prevention, suicide prevention, and vape disposal programs for Westside schools.
Guiding Good Choices: A free five-session program for parents and caregivers of youth ages 9–14.
Breathe Free Westside: Our tobacco and vaping prevention campaign.
CUYFD Lock Your Meds: Our prescription drug safety campaign, launching February 26, 2027.
Upcoming events
Community Town Hall: Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1–3 PM, Hartford Memorial Baptist Church
Men's Summit and Youth Summit: February 2027
CUYFD Lock Your Meds launch: February 2027
Watch our Public Service Announcements
CUYFD staff and our Youth Advisory Council create public service announcements on alcohol, marijuana, opioids, and vaping.
Urban Review TV Show
Need help now?
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988. For mental health and substance use services in Wayne County, call the DWIHN 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-241-4949.
Our impact - Read about our work in our latest annual report.
Partners and funders - View a list of some of our partners and funders.
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