Empowering the Future: Atlantic City Celebrates First Cohort of Raising Kings and Queens Program

On February 6, 2025, the City of Atlantic City celebrated a milestone moment as it proudly honored the first graduates of the Raising Kings and Queens Program during a special luncheon at Gourmet Cuisine in Galloway Township. The event marked the culmination of a transformative 10-week journey for participants, aged 14 to 18, who had engaged in mentorship, etiquette training, and hands-on projects designed to prepare them for a brighter future.

Throughout the program, participants embraced the opportunity to build essential life skills. They particularly valued the enriching trips and etiquette lessons, where they learned the nuances of professionalism, respect, and responsibility—skills that they had not been previously exposed to. The program’s holistic approach allowed them to develop not only as students but also as future leaders within their community. The graduates expressed their gratitude for the life-changing experiences that would guide them as they stepped into adulthood.

Mayor Marty Small Sr. attended the luncheon and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in the city's commitment to enriching the lives of its youth. “We’re giving these kids the tools and guidance they need at a young age so they can become contributing members of our community as they get older,” said Mayor Small. He also acknowledged the hard work of the city’s Reentry Services and One Neighborhood Evolution Anti-Violence teams, who helped make the program a success. The mayor pledged to continue offering similar programs throughout the year to further support the city’s youth.

Kamau Johnson, Director of Reentry, was deeply moved by the success of the program. As a native of Atlantic City, he created the Raising Kings and Queens initiative to empower youth and inspire them to believe in their own potential. “My hope is to inspire kids to understand: ‘You are a King, and you are a Queen!’” he shared during the event. "With the right foundation and mindset, the world is yours to explore."

Principal Robert Strickland also spoke at the luncheon, highlighting the potential for such programs to expand into schools, allowing more young people to benefit from these invaluable experiences and further shaping their futures. Through efforts like the Raising Kings and Queens Program, Atlantic City is proving that mentorship and life skills can serve as powerful tools in keeping youth on a positive path.

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