A Community Gathers for Celebration and Support
Under sunny skies at Clayton County International Park, hundreds of seniors and their families came together on Saturday, May 3 for Mayfest 2025: Aging is a Breeze, a health and wellness event organized by Clayton County Senior Services.
The annual event offered more than just music and giveaways — it delivered a message of active aging, community care, and lifelong vitality.
“This event isn’t just about having fun,” said Senior Services Director Dionne Blake. “It’s about celebrating our seniors and making sure they know they’re supported, seen, and connected.”
A Full Day of Health, Movement, and Music
Hosted at the iconic 2300 Hwy. 138 park location in Jonesboro, the festival featured:
- Free health screenings (blood pressure, glucose, vision)
- Line dancing and movement classes
- Nutrition counseling booths
- Live entertainment from local jazz and gospel performers
- Vendor row with health agencies, nonprofits, and senior support groups
Participants also received printed resources on fall prevention, mental health, chronic illness support, and community transportation programs for 55+ residents.
Seniors Lead the Dance Floor
At around 11:00 a.m., the energy shifted from education to celebration as the music picked up and dozens of attendees gathered for line dancing under the pavilion.
“We wait for this all year,” said Loretta M., a Riverdale resident. “You forget you’re 70 when the band starts playing.”
Many attendees sported custom T-shirts from their local senior centers, proudly repping neighborhoods like Ellenwood, Forest Park, and Lovejoy.
“This is our Super Bowl,” joked Clarence W., a retired firefighter who leads weekly stretching classes at the Sonna Singleton Gregory Senior Center.
Focus on Wellness Beyond the Festival
While Mayfest is a highlight, Clayton County Senior Services emphasizes that the real work continues year-round.
Programs highlighted during the event included:
Senior Nutrition Services
Home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels), congregate dining programs, and food education initiatives that serve over 1,200 residents monthly.
Fitness & Aquatics Access
Free or low-cost access to fitness facilities and group classes, including aquatics and strength training, at senior centers across the county.
Caregiver Support Programs
Resources for family caregivers, including respite planning, support groups, and mental health counseling.
“Aging well takes a village,” said Blake. “And we’ve built that village here in Clayton County.”
Community & County Support
Mayfest 2025 also featured appearances by:
- Chairwoman Sonna Singleton Gregory
- County Commissioner Felicia Franklin
- Volunteers from CCPS, local churches, and healthcare providers
Clayton County’s Board of Commissioners has prioritized senior-focused initiatives in recent years, investing in transportation, housing accessibility, and health equity through SPLOST funding.
“These are our elders, our wisdom holders,” said Commissioner Gregory. “It’s our duty to protect their dignity.”
Reactions from Attendees
“I got my blood pressure checked, learned about arthritis treatments, and danced with my granddaughter — all in one place,” said Mr. Henry, 76, of Morrow.
“We felt seen today,” added Sandra R., caregiver to her 82-year-old mother. “And that means everything.”
Want to Learn More?
To register for Clayton County’s senior programs or receive updates on future events, residents 55 and older can:
Call the Senior Services Office at (770) 603-4050
Visit claytoncountyga.gov/government/senior-services
Or stop by the Sonna Singleton Gregory Senior Center on Anvil Block Road, Ellenwood
