Community Youth Development History
The Texas Legislature initiated the Dallas Community Youth Development (CYD)
program, originally named Project 75216, in 1995. At that time, Dallas Oak Cliff
zip code 75216 had one of the highest rates of juvenile crime in Texas.
Community Youth Development provides prevention programs to alleviate family and
community conditions that lead to juvenile crime. Community-based resources and
Community Youth Development staff provide options that promote a legacy for
young people and support positive character development, self-esteem and pride.
In June 1996, a Community Vision was created and the Community Council
implemented the program for the children and families who live in this
community. Services include after school programs, leadership development,
and recreation as parts of the multi-component service approach.
In December 2000, the Dallas Community Youth Development Program was expanded
to include zip code 75217 in Pleasant Grove. The shared expectation is that
through Community Youth Development, destructive juvenile behaviors will be
reduced and future leaders identified and developed.