When Christopher Okrent, a twenty-five-year-old Human Services major at St. Joseph’s University, needed to choose an organization for his college paper, the decision was deeply personal. He didn’t pick a random charity or a well-known nonprofit. Instead, he chose a place that changed his family’s life—the Smithtown Senior Citizen Center.
For Christopher, this wasn’t just another academic assignment. It was a chance to honor the community that had given his grandmother, Martha Okrent, a renewed sense of purpose and belonging after the passing of her husband, Paul.
Thanks to his work, the Smithtown Senior Center is now getting the recognition it deserves as a place where seniors aren’t just members—they’re family.
Christopher grew up watching his grandmother thrive at the Smithtown Senior Center. After losing her husband, Martha could have easily become isolated. Still, instead, she found friendship, laughter, and a sense of purpose within the center’s welcoming community.
“The friendships she made with the staff and other members helped her cope with her grief tremendously,” Christopher recalled. “It was more than a place to pass the time—it became her second home.”
The center’s impact on Martha was so profound that Christopher felt compelled to share her story through his college paper. His work highlighted the center’s role in enhancing the lives of seniors but also earned him an A on his assignment—a win he proudly shared with the staff and members.
Smithtown Senior Center Director Doreen Perrino remembers Christopher’s visit fondly.
“It was an incredible honor when Christopher asked to visit the center to gather information for his college paper,” Perrino said. “He is such an outstanding young gentleman, pursuing a career in Human Services because of his passion for helping people. I loved reminiscing with him about his lovely grandparents—especially Martha, who was known around the center as the Wii Bowling Champion!”
And she wasn’t exaggerating.
Martha wasn’t just any senior center member—she was a fierce competitor in Wii Bowling, a skill she learned from Christopher and his brothers at home. She quickly mastered the game and soon became a legend at the center, consistently beating her friend and fellow member, Kevin Morrow.
Christopher reconnected with Kevin during his visit, sharing laughs and memories about their friendly rivalry.
“Martha was tough to beat,” Kevin admitted with a smile. “She always kept me on my toes.”
But it wasn’t just about the games. Martha was also an active book club member, a regular at social lunches, and a vibrant part of the senior center’s daily life.
Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) wasn’t surprised to hear about Christopher’s paper or his family’s heartfelt connection with the center.
“The team at the Smithtown Senior Center is more than just staff—they are family,” Wehrheim said. “They know every member by name, remember their grandkids, their favorite hobbies, and even the incredible stories from their past.”
He praised the center for going above and beyond to make seniors feel valued.
“Whether it’s celebrating a birthday, reminiscing about cherished memories, or simply sharing a laugh over a cup of coffee, the staff creates a warm and welcoming place where every senior feels truly at home.”
After turning in his paper and receiving top marks, Christopher made a memorable trip back to the senior center—this time with his mother—to personally thank the staff and share the news.
For the Smithtown Senior Center team, it was a proud moment—not just because the center was recognized in Christopher’s work, but because it reinforced what they already knew: Their work makes a difference.
For those who don’t know, the Eugene Cannataro Senior Citizens Center isn’t just a place for seniors to pass the time. It’s a hub for activities, friendships, and vital services for Smithtown residents aged 60 and older.
Members can enjoy arts, fitness, and wellness programs; social clubs, including book clubs, gardening, and quilting; casino and theater outings, luncheons, and community advocacy; and home maintenance and repair services for seniors.
The center operates Monday through Friday, 8:30a.m. through 4:00p.m., with adjusted summer hours being 8:30a.m. through 3:30p.m. It also provides transportation for members, ensuring that no one is left out of the community they love.
Joining is simple—Smithtown residents aged 60+ can sign up for free by filling out an application on-site and providing proof of residency. Members receive a welcome packet, a tour of the facility, and access to a full calendar of events.
Christopher’s story isn’t just about his grandmother—it’s about every senior who finds comfort, companionship, and joy at the Smithtown Senior Center. It’s about the dedicated staff who treat every member like family. And most of all, it’s a reminder that no one should have to navigate their golden years alone.
This project was a way for Christopher to give back to a place that gave his grandmother so much. For the Smithtown Senior Center, it was another example of their lasting impact on generations of families.
And for anyone wondering if senior centers make a difference—ask Martha Okrent. Her story lives on, not just in Christopher’s paper, but in the heart of the community she loved so much.
Eugene Cannataro Senior Center is located at 420 Middle Country Road in Smithtown and can be reached at 631-360-7616. Transportation Services can be reached at 631-265-8811.
