By J.R. Tidwell / Editor

Senior Connection in Clanton will be hosting its annual M4A picnic May 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

M4A, short for Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging, sponsors the event each year.

“We have held the picnic for four or five years annually in this building,” said Senior Connection Director Vanessa McKinney. “We have held it ever since we have been here. M4A is based in Alabaster, and they have [five] counties they cover and the surrounding areas.”

According to M4A’s website, “M4A’s mission is to help all individuals access information, assistance, and resources that will empower them to self-advocate, live independently, and enjoy the highest quality of life. M4A specializes in serving older adults and individuals with disabilities.

“Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging (M4A) was designated as an Area Agency on Aging in 1989. As our name indicates, M4A serves all consumers between Blount, Chilton, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker counties to serve older individuals. Since 1989, M4A and its mission have grown to serve caregivers and people with disabilities regardless of age.”

The picnic is free for seniors, but McKinney does ask those who will be in attendance to register.

“The picnic hosts all the seniors in Chilton County,” she said. “We do ask that you sign up for that, so we can make sure we have the food that we need. From 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, you can come here and sign up. Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., we will have a local band (Waylon Smith), door prizes, and we will be playing games the whole time. We will have a lot of tables and educational booths set up for their benefit.”

According to McKinney, some local politicians also help sponsor the event.

“It is something fun for the seniors,” she said.

Senior Connection is located at 304 Park Plaza in Clanton.