Empowering Youth, Strengthening Community
By Dawn Laguerre Photos by C. Harris-Lockwood
Utica Royalties Celebrate Grand Opening Expanding Youth Opportunities
Utica Royalties celebrated the grand opening of its new youth center at 730 Broadway, across from Utica City Hall, marking a milestone in its mission to uplift and empower young people across the Mohawk Valley. Throngs of supporters filled the space as youth and guests painted side by side, listened to drumming, and shared in cultural dance performances that reflect the organization’s roots.
Community leaders and partners in attendance included Oneida County Sheriff Rob Maciol, Rev. Dr. Mary Webster, Oneida County Legislator at Large Heather Wasielewski, representatives from Project RISE and the Community Foundation, and longtime supporter Barry Sinnott and the Bank of Utica, whose contributions have helped sustain and expand youth programming. Vincent Scalise, an early and fervent supporter, was also present; he initially provided Utica Royalties with space on the fourth floor of his building, allowing the program to take root and grow.
The new facility includes classroom space dedicated to STEM training, while a collaboration with Mohawk Valley Health System supports students through mental health and emotional wellness check-ins.
Utica Royalties was founded in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic when Hawa Peters opened her home to neighborhood children seeking connection and creative expression through dance and drumming. Peters and her husband, James, emigrated from war-torn Sierra Leone and transformed that grassroots effort into a comprehensive youth development program serving youth ages 8–18. While the program fills a critical niche for refugee and immigrant youth — including Somali and other newly arrived families — all students are welcome and encouraged to participate.
The organization provides a free after-school program, transportation to ensure access, and a feminine hygiene pantry supplying essential products for young girls. Partnerships with Working Solutions and the Utica City School District create summer employment opportunities for youth.
In addition to serving more than 80 meals daily to school-age children, Utica Royalties offers enrichment experiences such as hiking, kayaking in the Adirondacks, swimming, and cultural arts programming. Youth participants have attended performances at Glimmerglass Opera, expanding their exposure to the arts beyond the Mohawk Valley. Their youth have delivered more than 100 dance and drumming performances throughout the region, including appearances at the New York State Fair.
One of their signature initiatives, Yoga in the Parks, brings wellness directly into Utica’s public parks, offering free yoga sessions that promote mindfulness, physical health, and community connection.
“Our children deserve safe spaces where they can feel seen, valued, and inspired,” said Hawa Peters, founder of Utica Royalties. “When we empower young people through culture, wellness, and opportunity, we strengthen families and build a healthier future for our entire community.”
For more information about programs and enrollment, visit http://www.uticaroyalties.org.
ED Hawa Peters stands with community members Dave and Dawn Laguerre
