The Tompkins County Youth Services Department is a government agency dedicated to supporting the positive development and well-being of youth throughout Tompkins County, New York. Operating within the public sector, the department collaborates closely with local municipalities, nonprofits, schools, and community organizations to ensure that youth programs are accessible, effective, and grounded in data-informed practices. The department provides leadership in planning, funding, and evaluating youth services that address the diverse needs of children, teens, and families across the county.

One of its core functions is administering state and local funds to community organizations that deliver youth services—ensuring resources are equitably distributed to serve various populations effectively. It promotes positive youth development through evidence-based strategies, capacity-building for non-profits, and public policy advocacy. The department also plays an instrumental role in collecting and analyzing data on local youth trends, using this information to inform future programming decisions and investment priorities. Through initiatives such as interagency coordination and gap analysis, the department works to ensure that no youth is left without access to supportive programs and services.

Key Services:

– Strategic planning and coordination of youth services across Tompkins County
– Administration of state and county funding for youth development programs
– Needs assessments and data analysis to guide programming and policy decisions
– Support and technical assistance for community-based organizations
– Advocacy for policies that improve youth outcomes
– Promotion of positive youth development frameworks and best practices
– Monitoring and evaluation of funded service providers
– Encouraging equitable access to services for underserved and marginalized youth populations