Why Integration?

Our vision is to achieve and sustain the benefits of a thriving, racially integrated and truly inclusive community that serves as a model for the nation.

Many communities are diverse; few are integrated. Diversity may find people of different races and ethnicities living near each other, but integration finds them living with each other—interacting, forming friendships, participating fully in the community’s economic, political, civic, and cultural life. Read More...

Two Towns, One Community

South Orange and Maplewood are…
    • adjoining suburbs with tree-lined streets and good schools
    • 29 minutes from NYC by train
    • full of parks and recreation
    • arts and culture destinations
    • graced by historic buildings and homes
    • one community where everyone is welcome!

What people find here is small town feel with the conveniences and cachet of cosmopolitan living. There are seventeen beautiful parks with ball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, jogging paths, great sledding, and each town has a community pool. Both towns border the South Mountain Reservation—a 2020 acre preserve with hiking and biking trails. Residents refer to the downtowns of South Orange and Maplewood each quaintly as “The Village.” Take the train to either of The Villages to visit our wonderful stores, restaurants, arts centers, and take a walk through our neighborhoods to see our the range and beauty of our homes!

News & Events

  • The Day In PicturesJan 19th 2012

    We honored Dr. King’s legacy through community service, music and dance, and by remembering his words and sharing our thoughts. See the day in pictures of this momentous two towns community event.

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observance & Volunteer FairJan 19th 2012

    Over 500 people gathered to reflect on the legacy of Dr. King, to serve the community with service and donation projects, and to consider ways to serve throughout the year.

  • Got any gold up your sleeve?Jan 16th 2012

    Come to our party at The Tenth Muse Gallery and earn cash for your unwanted gold jewelry….

  • SOCO Hosted 42nd MLK CelebrationJan 8th 2012

    The South Orange Civic Organization awarded Art Taylor and Fred Profeta with their Beloved Community Award on Sunday.

  • Coalition on Race Welcomes New Chair & Trustees in 2012Jan 1st 2012

    Five new trustees join the Board this January–Maria Gilmour, Shelley Slafkes, Omari Frazier, Leila Gonzalez Sullivan, and Lois Larkey. The Board also welcomes Fred Profeta—who has been an ex officio member in his capacity as the Maplewood Township Committee’s liaison—to the board as a full trustee. Read more to learn a bit about the new trustees and their interest in the Coalition.