More Than $1 Million Raised by Mayor Small to Support Atlantic City Community Organizations

‍ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Atlantic City has always been a community that looks out for its own, and more than $1 Million raised through Mayor Marty Small, Sr.’s two Inaugural Galas is another example of that commitment in action.

Together, Mayor Small’s 2022 and 2026 Inaugural Galas have generated more than $1 Million for Atlantic City nonprofit and community organizations, providing direct support to groups that are working every day to make a difference for local residents.

Mayor Small announced the latest milestone at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, where representatives from the ten organizations receiving funds from the 2026 The Future is Ours Inaugural Gala were presented with their checks.

The 2026 gala raised more than $459,000, with proceeds distributed directly to the organizations following event expenses. The Mayor’s first Inaugural Gala, held in 2022, raised more than $611,000.

“This is what taking care of our community looks like,” said Mayor Small. “I set the bar extremely high for this year’s gala, and while we did not reach our ambitious goal, I am incredibly proud that we were still able to make a significant impact for these wonderful Atlantic City organizations. As mayor, it is my responsibility to find ways to make a positive difference in our community, and raising more than $1 million is something that will make a meaningful difference. I sincerely thank everyone who played a role in making this year’s gala a success by attending, organizing, promoting or donating to the cause.”

The organizations receiving funding represent a wide range of community priorities, including youth programs, senior services, veterans, athletics, the arts and community development:

• Atlantic City Police Athletic League
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
• Atlantic City Senior Citizens
• The HOPE Foundation
• Create 48
• AC Elite Football
• The Omega by the Sea Foundation
• Saracini-O’Neill Foundation
• Atlantic City’s Bangladesh Community
• Kenneth B. Hawkins American Legion Post 61

For these organizations, the funding provides additional resources to continue programs, serve residents and create opportunities throughout the city.

That is the larger purpose behind Mayor Small’s Inaugural Gala: bringing people together to celebrate Atlantic City while also giving back to the community.

The effort also reflects a broader spirit that exists throughout Atlantic City. Businesses, residents, nonprofit organizations, community leaders and elected officials regularly come together to support local causes and invest in the people who call the city home.

Photos by City of Atlantic City Photographer Edward Lea

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