Raising Kings and Queens Program Celebrates First Graduates

GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP – The City of Atlantic City recently celebrated the first cohort of graduates from the Raising Kings and Queens program, a transformative initiative developed through Reentry of Atlantic City.

The milestone was marked with a special graduation luncheon at Gourmet Cuisine in Galloway Township. The 10-week program provided participants, ages 14-18, with mentorship, etiquette training, and hands-on projects designed to prepare them for future success.

Many graduates shared how much they valued the experience, particularly the trips and etiquette courses that introduced them to essential life skills.

“Programs like this are a huge part of the Small administration’s commitment to enriching the lives of Atlantic City’s youth,” said Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Sr. “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. Our Reentry Services division, as well as our One Neighborhood Evolution Anti-Violence team, do an excellent job working with our youth, and we made a commitment during my 2025 State of the City to hold more programs like this throughout the year.”

Kamau Johnson, Director of Reentry, emphasized the program’s role in guiding young people toward success.

“As someone from this city, I understand the challenges our youth face in staying on the right path. Change starts with the younger generation, and I created this program as a stepping stone to put action behind my words," said Johnson. "My hope is to inspire kids to understand: ‘You are a King, and you are a Queen!’ Carry yourself with respect, and the world is yours to explore with the right foundation and mindset.”

During the luncheon, Principal Robert Strickland highlighted the potential for Raising Kings and Queens to expand into schools, furthering its impact on the next generation.

Atlantic City Reentry Services is dedicated to providing support, resources, and opportunities to individuals facing challenges that put them at risk of incarceration. Traditionally focused on helping those returning from incarceration, the organization also works proactively with high-risk youth, offering mentorship, life skills, and positive pathways for success. Programs like Raising Kings and Queens aim to empower young people before they enter the justice system, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive.

Thanks for reading the whole story!

At Atlantic City Focus, we're committed to providing a platform where the diverse voices of our community can be heard, respected, and celebrated. As an independent online news platform, we rely on a unique mix of affordable advertising and the support of readers like you to continue delivering quality, community journalism that matters. Please support the businesses and organizations that support us by clicking on their ads. And by making a tax deductible donation today, you become a catalyst for change helping to amplify the authentic voices that might otherwise go unheard. And every contribution is greatly appreciated. Join us in making a difference—one uplifting story at a time!

*** GET UP WITH ATLANTIC CITY FOCUS and RAYMOND TYLER
STARTING MONAY, FEB 10th AT 8AM! ***