Groton is a rural town in Tompkins County with a smaller but significant youth population. The town’s demographics include a mix of families with children, many of whom are involved in local schools and community activities. Groton's youth are an important part of the town’s fabric, despite the smaller rural setting.

AYR Goal:  Our Community (Tompkins County) will provide children, youth, and families with healthy, safe, and thriving environments.

Groton has a tight-knit community with an emphasis on family and youth involvement. Local events such as fairs, parades, and community cleanups are common, providing youth with opportunities for engagement. The town also has youth programs that focus on sports, arts, and outdoor activities, helping foster a sense of belonging and connection for young residents.

AYR Goal:  Youth will be prepared for their eventual self-sufficiency.

Groton's economy, like much of rural New York, is centered around agriculture and local businesses. While economic opportunities can be limited, community support programs help provide assistance to families in need, such as food security and financial aid programs. However, youth may face barriers to accessing jobs and resources that are more readily available in larger towns or cities.

AYR Goal:  Youth will leave school prepared to live, learn, and work in their community.

Youth in Groton attend the Groton Central School District, which offers educational programs from elementary through high school. The district emphasizes a well-rounded curriculum, with extracurricular activities available, though access to specialized programs or advanced education can be more challenging in rural areas. Transportation to off-site programs or specialized services can also be a concern for families.

AYR Goal:  Families will provide children safe, stable and nurturing environments

Families in Groton benefit from the close-knit, rural atmosphere, where neighbors often support one another. Community programs aimed at supporting families with children are available, though services like childcare and specialized healthcare can be less accessible due to the town's rural location. Despite these challenges, local organizations work to bridge these gaps.

AYR Goal:  Children and youth will have optimal physical and emotional health.  

Physical health is promoted in Groton through access to local parks, sports leagues, and community wellness programs. However, mental health services are limited in the rural town, requiring families to travel to larger cities like Ithaca for specialized care. Local efforts focus on wellness education and providing basic health services to support both physical and emotional well-being.

AYR Goal:  Children and youth will demonstrate commitment to their community as contributing members of their families, schools, and neighborhoods.

Youth civic engagement in Groton is fostered through local volunteer opportunities, leadership programs, and involvement in town meetings or decision-making processes. Despite its small size, Groton offers young people the chance to actively participate in their community, from organizing events to participating in service projects, helping them develop a sense of responsibility and connection to their town.