The South Orange-Maplewood Adult School was founded in 1933 during the Great Depression as a beacon of hope, a place where everyone could afford to take classes and people of all ages could learn, stay informed, and be entertained. A lot has changed over the last 90+ years. SOMAS continues to serve this great community by offering more than 200 affordable courses and lectures throughout the year – courses that enrich the mind, exercise the body, feed the soul, and help make our towns incredible places to live. In 2026, our 6-part lecture series will celebrate “In, Around, About...Essex County” by featuring local authors who have written about historical events and notable people of the County - a series you don’t want to miss!

We do it in large part through your support! SOMAS does not receive funding from municipal or school budgets. Revenue generated by class fees and generous donors like you keep programming affordable.

Thank you for supporting SOMAS's Annual Campaign!

SOMAS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and does not receive funding from municipal or school budgets, relying almost exclusively on revenue generated by class fees and donor support.

Charitable donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Donations at any level of giving are gratefully accepted; additionally, we now accept sustaining donations where you can choose to give regularly throughout the year. Your donation may qualify as a charitable deduction for federal income tax purposes.
Many employers sponsor matching gift programs and will match charitable contributions made by their employees. Please contact your employer about their matching policy and consider a corporate match of your SOMAS donation today.

SOMAS 2026 Annual Campaign

Team Members