SOMA Living March 2024

SOMA ADULT SCHOOL

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR

50TH ANNIVERSARY

DENISE HINDS

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the South Orange Maplewood Adult School’s Children’s Summer Program invites registrations for an exciting four-week adventure. Offering a broad range of activities from ultimate frisbee to cupcake decorating, the program promises fun for every camper’s interest. South Mountain Elementary School will host this year’s program from June 24 to July 19, welcoming children entering grades 1-8 in September 2024. Campers in grades 1-3 will select activity blocks, while those in grades 4-8 will choose their own classes, allowing them to customize their schedules. The day runs five periods from 8:45am to 2:40pm, with optional early drop-off at 8am and aftercare available until 5pm. Local teachers and community members will lead the classes, with assistance from Yellow Shirt teen counselors. The creative lineup includes Glass Art Mosaics, Graphic Design, Woodworking, and more. Acting & Improv and Multi-Style Dance await budding performers, while sports enthusiasts can try Ultimate Frisbee, Fencing, and more. Science classes will cover topics from Discover the Universe to Extreme Animals. All activities will take place at South Mountain Elementary School, 444 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, Maplewood, NJ. Visit somadultschool.org for a Camp Guide Grid to plan your child’s summer adventure. For questions, contact 973.378.7620 or schoolinfo@somadultschool.org.

Denise Hinds, a longtime resident of SOMA, moved to this vibrant community in 2003 with a vision of diversity and inclusivity. She came from Park Slope,

Brooklyn, seeking a nurturing environment to raise her daughter, Maura Donnelly, now a young adult. An active member of the SOMA Queer Parents Facebook group, Denise connects with other LGBTQ individuals raising children in SOMA. As the Chief Program Officer at Good Shepherd Services for over 35 years, Denise brings a wealth of experience in social work and community development. Beyond her professional role, she is deeply involved in advocacy work. Denise serves on the Board of Family Equality and holds the position of Board Chair for the Newark LGBTQ Center, actively contributing to the advancement of LGBTQ rights and representation. Denise cherishes the diverse community in SOMA and the connections she fosters over the years. She values the proximity to Newark, highlighting her dedication to the local LGBTQ community. Celebrating local events like North Jersey Pride and Maplewoodstock, Denise invites all to experience the vibrant energy of the Newark LGBTQ Film Festival, a testament to her unwavering commitment to advocacy and community building.

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