Atlantic City Expands Commitment to Youth with New Programs and Opportunities

The City of Atlantic City, under the Mayor Marty Small, Sr. Administration, continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to its youngest residents by expanding programs and opportunities that keep young people active and engaged. This is through athletics, creative expression, or hands-on learning, ensuring that children of all ages have access to meaningful experiences that support their growth and development.

A major highlight of this effort is a newly announced youth sports initiative aimed at increasing opportunities for girls across the community. Mayor Small and the Atlantic City Recreation Division recently unveiled a partnership with Philadelphia-based nonprofit Eyekonz Sports to introduce girls in grades 3–8 to lacrosse, with plans to expand into field hockey soon. Supported by Atlantic City’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) office and the Atlantic City Board of Education, the program is offered at no cost to Atlantic City residents, something Eyekonz Founder Jazmine A. Smith acknowledged is something you rarely see a city do.

Beyond learning the fundamentals of new sports, participants will benefit from mentorship, leadership development, and exposure to potential pathways for college scholarships, creating opportunities that extend far beyond the playing field. An Information Meeting brought out dozens of families to learn more about enrollment, while hundreds of other Atlantic City families have expressed interest.

For younger children, Atlantic City Recreation has been making a lasting impact through its brand-new Tiny Tots program. Designed for students in kindergarten through second grade, the program has provided a fun and enriching experience filled with creativity and exploration. Each week, participants engage in activities such as arts and crafts, cookie decorating, free play, and special trips, encouraging imagination while building social skills in a supportive environment.

Atlantic City’s Youth Services Division is also playing a key role in creating engagement among families and children with a variety of upcoming programs and events. Families enjoyed a special Family Paint Night, offering a chance to bond while expressing creativity. In addition, a lineup of diverse programs ensures there is something for every interest, including Mini Mix Masters, a baking-focused program; Elemental Arts, which introduces participants to martial arts; and Grace in Motion, a dance program designed to build self-expression.

Each of these offerings provides a unique experience, giving young residents the opportunity to discover new interests, develop skills, and build connections within their community.

Mayor Small emphasizes that investing in youth is essential to building a stronger Atlantic City. Through continued collaboration and innovative programming, Atlantic City is ensuring its youth have the tools they need to thrive, today and in the future.

Click below to learn more about each division:

ATLANTIC CITY RECREATION

ATLANTIC CITY YOUTH SERVICES

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