About SOMA Families Meetup

We are a welcoming and inclusive community of parents and caregivers from South Orange and Maplewood (and the bordering towns of East Orange, Hillside, Irvington, Livingston, Millburn, Newark, Orange, Short Hills, Springfield, Union and West Orange). We embrace all types of families and value diversity. Whether you are a stay-at-home or working parent, SOMA Families offers social events and supportive groups for you, your family, and your caregiver. Our events are centered around South Orange & Maplewood (aka SOMA!).

SOMA Families Meetup is a 501(c)7 nonprofit. Dues go towards fabulous free & subsidized local events for our members throughout the year, and help us cover admin costs. Our board negotiates discounted activities at local venues and hosts a weekly new moms coffee, an annual clothing & toy swap, spring party, fall party, and all sorts of meetups throughout the year—including some virtual activities. We like to get together for playdates, outings, adult-only events, community volunteer opportunities, book clubs, family events and just about anything else. We look forward to meeting you and your family soon!

Diversity & Inclusion Commitments

SOMA Families remains committed to inclusiveness and representing the diverse communities we serve. To that end, we have several tangible goals for the 2020-2021 term:

  1. Diversity on the Board. It’s important that our Board reflects the communities we serve, and encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our towns. Available positions →

  2. Partnerships. We commit to expand partnerships with local organizations, especially those that serve underrepresented groups, to sponsor joint events & outreach when Coronavirus safety allows.

  3. VP of Community. To accelerate the partnerships effort above, and lead membership diversity initiatives, we’ve added a VP of Community to our Board.

  4. Boosting cause-driven events. We continue to promote local events from groups like SOMA Justice and the Integrated Playgroup. Meetup / Facebook / Instagram

  5. Dues waiver. Last year we clarified and posted our financial hardship policy to remove the barrier of the annual dues. How to join →

  6. Variety. We will increase the variety of event types & times to appeal and be accessible to more families and working schedules.

  7. Neighbors & newcomers. We will continue plans for additional neighbors & newcomers events and resources. We’ll explore new marketing channels to broaden awareness beyond our existing member base.

If you have suggestions or would like to get involved, please contact us.