Smithtown Senior Citizens Department Recognizes Over 100 Volunteers

On Wednesday, April 9th, the Town of Smithtown Senior Citizens Department recognized over 100 Senior Citizen Center Volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to helping others by hosting a special luncheon in their honor. Department Director Doreen Perrino, alongside Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo, Councilman Tom Lohmann, Town Clerk Tom McCarthy, Tax Receiver Deanna Varricchio and Senior Citizens Center staff, presented each volunteer with an official Certificate of Appreciation from the Town of Smithtown, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their outstanding public service and unwavering commitment to the community.

“It was an absolute honor to recognize the extraordinary men and women who volunteer at our Senior Citizens Center,” shares Supervisor Ed Wehrheim. “These individuals are the heartbeat of our community—quietly delivering compassion, hope, and joy to those who need it most. Their service isn’t just generous—it’s transformative. And it’s what makes Smithtown a place we’re all proud to call home. Whether it’s a warm meal, a handmade gift, or a kind word, their service uplifts lives in ways that cannot be measured. Their dedication is a powerful reminder that the greatest strength of Smithtown lies in the selflessness of those who are proud to be part of our community.”

The volunteers at the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department embody the true spirit of community. With compassion, creativity, and unwavering dedication, these remarkable individuals have generously given their time and talents to uplift others—delivering meals to homebound neighbors, and crafting heartfelt gifts like quilts and handmade treasures for our veterans, hospitals, nursing homes, and homeless shelters.

Their impact extends far beyond the Senior Center walls. From supporting vital services and leading cherished clubs to donating handcrafted projects to local institutions such as Brooksite MultiCare, St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, the Long Island Veterans Home, Northport VA Medical Center, and many more—our volunteers are a lifeline of kindness throughout Smithtown.

On-site, they bring joy and connection through activities like the Garden Club, Video Exercise, and the boutique. The Center Committee volunteers continue their commitment through thoughtful fundraising and by organizing community favorites like the annual Tender Years Treasury.

“Our annual Volunteer Luncheon is a treasured event. Over 130 volunteers were invited to attend; volunteer quilters, gardeners, club executives, home-delivered meal drivers, crafting volunteers, and too many more to mention,” added Doreen Perrino, Program Director, Smithtown Senior Citizens Department. “Every single volunteer is key to our success and the positive impact we have on this community. More than half of our volunteers are home delivered meal drivers. Last year, 24,076 meals were delivered in total to homebound seniors! What an amazing feat! As the saying goes, ‘it takes a village.’ Every one of our volunteers is an integral part of this ‘village.’ Their kindness and dedication are unwavering, and I thank them all, from the bottom of my heart.”

Bill Maynard, a Navy veteran and retired FDNY Lieutenant, was honored during the luncheon ceremony for his extraordinary 31 years of service delivering meals through the Senior Center’s Meals on Wheels program. For many of the individuals he visits, Bill is not just delivering a meal—he’s providing the only human connection they may have all day. His unwavering commitment and compassion have made a profound difference in the lives of countless residents throughout our community. Maynard and his wife have been married 32 years and are blessed with four children and eight grandchildren. Bill Maynard is also a member of the Smithtown American Legion and a Board member for the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce.

Also recognized for her remarkable longevity and unwavering spirit of service was Serafina Marolla, who has dedicated 30 incredible years as a volunteer at the Senior Center. A cherished member of the Creative Club, Serafina pours her heart into crafting beautiful, handmade cards; each one a personal message of encouragement, hope, and love, delivered to residents in local nursing homes. Her dedication exemplifies the very best of community service and compassion. Beyond her creative contributions, Serafina is a beloved presence at every celebration, known far and wide as the life of the party, especially when the “chicken dance” fills the room. This year, Serafina not only reached a milestone in service, but also celebrated her 91st birthday—a shining example of joy, generosity, and what it means to give back with grace.

For further information regarding the programs available at the Smithtown Senior Citizens Center or to learn more about becoming a volunteer, call the Senior Center at 631-360-7616.