Urban Solutions Training and Development
A 501 (C)(3) Organization
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Urban Solutions Training and Development Corporation supports curvy and plus-size young women (13-21) and seniors (55+) through education, wellness, mental health, and support programs that build confidence, resilience, and self-sufficiency for lifelong success.
Contact Us:
Phone: 313.499.8690 or 724.492.8789
Email: info@urbansolutionstad.org
Office: 5555 Conner Ste: 2085 Detroit, Michigan 48213
About Us
Urban Solutions Training and Development (USTAD)
Founded in 2001, USTAD is a Detroit-based nonprofit dedicated to building healthy, confident, and resilient communities. We support curvy and plus-size young women (12–21) and seniors (55+) through education, wellness, mental health, and support programs designed to promote:
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Confidence and resilience
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Health and self-sufficiency
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Positive self-image and mental well-being
In partnership with Full & Fabulous Global
Founded by Dr. Sharon DuMas in 1982, Full and Fabulous was created to empower plus-size women and girls through health, beauty, and self-esteem. As a curvy Black girl, Dr. DuMas experienced body shaming that took a toll on her mental health. But she chose not to be defined by society’s standards. Instead, she began a journey of self-acceptance and healing—using affirmations, inner strength, and purpose to reclaim her power.
From this journey came the powerful message:
“Full and Fabulous is a state of mind, not a dress size.”
Today, Full and Fabulous Global is a transformative program for girls ages 12–21, promoting self-love, positive body image, and leadership. Through mentorship, wellness education, and community engagement, we help youth turn pain into power—and confidence into a way of life..
The Curvy Girl Project:
Mentorship Program for Overweight Girls and Women
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Our mission is to provide a holistic wrap-around prevention program offering fun, hands-on educational tools for curvy and plus-size young women, ages 13 to 21. The effort promotes lifelong habits, including good nutrition, physical activity, personal development, and career readiness, to help these young ladies fulfill their aspirations while handling adversity with confidence and grace. We also promote positive body image and self-esteem and support healing from the shame of being overweight.
The Cultivating Growth Mentorship Program is a dynamic, inclusive leadership and wellness initiative for girls ages 12–21. Our mission is to nurture confidence, self-worth, and personal growth by providing hands-on group mentorship, life skills training, and holistic wellness education. We create a safe, supportive space where every girl—regardless of background—can feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive
Cultivating Growth equips participants with the tools to become confident leaders and resilient individuals. The program blends group mentoring with interactive workshops in health, self-esteem, beauty, leadership, and creative expression. Participants explore their identity, discover their voice, and connect with peers and mentors who foster growth in all areas of life.
Seasoned to Perfection
A Health and Mental Wellness Program
Seasoned to Perfection is committed to enhancing the health, well-being, and mental resilience of individuals aged 55 and above. Our mission is to empower seniors to lead fulfilling, independent lives through structured health and wellness programs, mental health support, and meaningful social engagement. By providing education, fitness opportunities, and community connections, we cultivate emotional strength, physical vitality, and a strong sense of belonging.
The Clothe Me, Love Me, Feed Me (C.L.F.) Project Christmas Party is a heartfelt annual event dedicated to uplifting women and families experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or other life challenges. Held during the holiday season, this special celebration offers a safe, joyful space where mothers and their children can experience the warmth of the community, receive essential resources, and create lasting holiday memories.
Guests enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with food, music, holiday activities, and gift giving—all designed to bring smiles and relief during what can be a difficult time of year. The event also connects families to critical support services, clothing, and wellness resources that extend beyond the holiday season.
With the support of generous donors, volunteers, and community partners, the C.L.F. Christmas Party spreads love, hope, and dignity—reminding every woman and child that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
CEO Full and Fabulous Inc, author, international speaker, and philanthropist.
"Full and Fabulous is a state of mind, not a dress size! Positively impacting the lives of plus-sized young ladies has been a lifelong journey." - Sharon DuMas
Sharon DuMas
Sharon’s unique formula of health, beauty and self-esteem has delivered unmatched results. Founded in 1982, The Full and Fabulous program has had ZERO teen pregnancies in its 40-year history.
Growing up as a plus-size girl was extremely stressful. Body shaming by family, friends and bullies happened quite frequently. Identified by those closest to her as undesirable, she internalized her pain. As a result, many unhealthy psychological habits formed. Suffering in
silence for years, she secretly explored ways to triumph over her trauma.
Searching for a champion of young, black, and curvy women was challenging in the early 80's. Adversaries were easier to find than advocates. However, Sharon refused to give in to haters and kept searching for solutions. Slowly, it became apparent to her that transformation only comes from within. Locking out the discouraging and belligerent behaviors of others from her mind became her cornerstone. Cleansing many years of painful experiences with daily
affirmations accelerated the process.
Full and fabulous is a state of mind, not a dress size was
born! Confidence is contagious. Building body confidence requires a positive self image. Loving the lady in the mirror gives women permission to be pretty. Sharon looks in the mirror every day and loves everything she sees! Communications with her are deep, fulfilling and empowering. Learning to love the woman
she saw changed her outlook on life. Trusting that woman changed her life forever.
Skyrocketing self-esteem and confidence pushed Sharon to share her formula with the Detroit
community. Coaching generations of vulnerable young black girls on how to flip their feelings of guilt, frustration, and pain into something productive has had a tremendous impact.
Today, thousands of curvy mothers and daughters now stand in solidarity against a world of intolerance
and be heard. Full and Fabulous has progressed from a thought, to a dream and now a movement all because Sharon understood her assignment. Sharon DuMas has been featured on numerous television broadcasts, print media publications and podcasts.
Accolades and Achievements
-2023 winner of Business Shero Award for Ladies Entrepreneur Empowerment Circle.
-The Michigan Chronicles Woman of Excellence Award.
-Multiple Features as a Who's Who of Black Detroit.
-Distinguished for being a W.K. Kellogg Foundation Expert-In-Residence
-Awarded Michigan's HomeTown Health Hero of the
Year by Governor Jennifer Granholm
-Given a Key to the City of Detroit by Mayor Coleman Alexander Young
- Partnered with the NFL for Super Bowl XL community
outreach.
-Charter member of Action for Healthy Kids
-Author of A Rose is Still A Rose release date Fall 2022.