Mayor Small Prioritizes Atlantic City Community Through Major Fundraising Effort

For Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Sr., leadership goes beyond policy.

Leadership under the Small Administration is about showing up for the community and finding meaningful ways to make a difference.

That commitment was evident when Mayor Small revealed the plans for his 2026 Inaugural Gala, setting an ambitious goal of raising at least $750,000 to support local organizations that serve Atlantic City residents.

While inaugural galas are often viewed as celebratory events, Mayor Small has positioned his as something more impactful. His first gala in 2022 raised more than $611,000 for youth-focused initiatives, and this year’s expanded effort will reach an even broader demographic.

“It’s about bringing our community together to support the organizations that make a difference every day,” Mayor Small emphasized during his gala press conference.

The event will be held Saturday, May 30 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, drawing residents, business leaders, and supporters for an evening designed to blend entertainment with philanthropy. But Mayor Small will make sure to keep the focus on creating opportunities and strengthening the support systems that residents rely on.

The list of beneficiaries reflects that philosophy. From youth programs like the Atlantic City Police Athletic League (PAL) and AC Elite Football, to senior services, veteran organizations, arts initiatives, and multicultural community groups, the funding is intended to reach a wide cross-section of the city.

During Mayor Small’s tenure, he has always prioritized quality of life, investing in people, and leveraging partnerships to expand opportunity (relationships matter as he puts it!). Whether through youth programming, clean and safe initiatives, or economic development efforts, the administration has consistently emphasized community-first policies. Hard rock President George Goldhoff even pointed out Mayor Small's community commitment during the announcement.

With some gala details still to be announced, Mayor Small is already calling on residents to take part and contribute to a larger mission.

‍