Princeton’s history of welcoming immigrants, refugees, and new Americans is the focus of a special “Welcoming Week” planned for September 16 to 25. Designed to recognize the past and help map out the future, the tribute has been spearheaded by the Princeton Human Services department in collaboration with the Princeton Public Library and the Historical Society of Princeton.

The town’s Human Services director Elisa Neira is hoping to expand the list of participating organizations. An email was sent this week to local non-profit groups, community leaders, and houses of worship inviting them to join the effort by hosting a dinner, game night, or other event, and encourage stories and anecdotes about welcoming those from other countries.

Preliminary plans call for a “Cultural Exchange Night” on September 20 at Hinds Plaza, at which Mayor Liz Lempert will read a proclamation. The Princeton Folk Dance Group will perform dances from around the world and invite participation. There will be displays from different cultures, and families and individuals are encouraged to take part by bringing items from their home countries.

Also scheduled is a walking tour sponsored by the Historical Society of Princeton. The Albert Hinds African American Tour, developed and narrated by longtime Princeton resident Shirley Satterfield, will begin at Hinds Plaza at a date and time to be determined.

Princeton joined the organization Welcoming America last year. With member cities all over the country as well as in Australia and Germany, Welcoming America is devoted to encouraging diversity and unity. “For a while, Princeton has been pushing the envelope as far as immigration matters and connecting with residents,” Ms. Neira said. “Particularly after consolidation, the effort got stronger. We figured we should join Welcoming America since we are doing a lot of the kinds of things they do already. It has opened us to a network across the country and allowed us to learn from each other.”

Welcoming Week events take place in chapters throughout the organization’s membership. Last year, according to its website, there were 245 events in more than 80 communities, with over 22,000 people participating. Ms. Neira and her colleagues decided it was time to add Princeton to the list.

“It’s just a great opportunity for us to reflect on how our community has been shaped by newcomers — not just now, but those who came before,” she said. “It’s a good way to highlight the history and re-energize our commitment to continue these efforts to build a unified community. And we also want to take a look at what we need to do to be better.”

Efforts will focus on highlighting stories of welcoming, whether from past or present, and recognizing contributions by those who have come to Princeton from other countries. Ms. Neira and colleagues are hoping to receive recommendations of Princeton immigrant-owned businesses that should be included in the celebration.

“There are so many stories of welcoming that can come out of this,” Ms. Neira said. “We want to hear them and honor them and continue to make the community stronger.”