TIFTON — Local organizers have a month full of activities planned for Older Americans Month, starting May 1.

Older Americans Month was established in 1963 by President John F Kennedy as “Senior Citizens Month.” It was later renamed “Older Americans Month” in 1965, marking a dedicated time to recognize the contributions of older Americans and highlight issues related to aging. It is celebrated every May, with a yearly theme set by the Administration for Community Living within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

This year’s theme is “Flip the Script on Aging.” The theme encourages people and communities to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about aging.

“This gives us, as a community, a wonderful opportunity to spotlight our seniors while also showing how they are still an important and functional part of our communities!” said Shane Martin, co-chairman of the local effort. “Each year a committee of volunteers work diligently to not only sponsor and schedule fun activities throughout the month of May, but we also try and raise money to offset the cost and offer a more broad range of options.”

Among the events planned in the Tifton area:

— 11:30 a.m. May 1: Kickoff Luncheon at the Leroy Rogers Center.

— 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 6: Pickleball tournament with lunch at First Baptist Church.

— 2 p.m. May 8: Music City Celebration with music and snacks at Leroy Roger Center.

— 1:30 p.m. May 9: Mother’s Day Tea with heavy hors d’oeuvres at The Syd.

— 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 12: Mexican Train Day with lunch at First Baptist Church.

— 2 p.m. May 13: Movie and Popcorn at First Methodist Church.

— 1:30 p.m. May 15: Flip the Tables Casino Day at Leroy Rogers Center.

— 11:30 a.m. May 16: Fish Fry at Leroy Rogers Center.

— 1:30-3:30 p.m. May 19: Bowling Day at Tift County Lanes.

— 11:30 a.m. May 21: Barnyard Dash Country Music and Lunch at Leroy Rogers Center.

— 11 a.m. May 22: Movie and Lunch at Leroy Rogers Center.

— 11 a.m. May 28: Fitness Day — Rewrite the Rhythm Line Dance Class at Leroy Rogers Center.

— 11:30 a.m. May 29: Finale Luncheon at First Baptist Church

All events are free to seniors 60 or older.

There are sponsorships and marketing opportunities available for businesses, Martin said. For anyone who would like to participate with an event or assist with financing, please reach out to Chairman Tonya Payne, 229-560-0716; Co-Chairman Shane Martin, 229-507-4723; or Treasurer Natasha Patrick, 229-256-1328.