And while he shares a name with one of the greatest comedic actors of all time, his plans for the organization are no laughing matter — unless, of course, it involves sharing some fun with the senior citizens he’s excited about serving.
“My mom managed a hospital in Garland. She also worked the ER (emergency room), and at the end of the day she’d say, ‘You should have seen the teamwork!’” Martin recalled. “She was pumped up.
“I learned compassion by watching her and the impact it can have on the lives of people. I’m pumped up to be here and among other people who also have compassion.”
Martin came to the Senior Center after working with the Tarrant Area Food Bank for 11 years, including positions as state donations coordinator moving to logistical manager during the COVID-19 pandemic. He opened and ran the TAFB West in Parker County since 2022 before moving on to a new challenge.
“Steve is well known in the community. He has been involved in other aspects of our community such as serving on boards and being in the Lions Club,” said Peggy Hutton, President of the Parker County Committee on Aging. “He is a hard worker and able to take the Senior Center to the next level.”
The Senior Center has been a part of the Weatherford and Parker County community since it first opened its doors in 1975. It is the home of Parker County Meals on Wheels, along with providing plenty of activities and opportunities for the elderly residents in the county.
Martin, 61, is originally from Topeka, Kansas. He and his family moved to Texas from Colorado Springs, Colorado when he was a youngster.
His father, in fact, grew up in the Pythian Home, so Martin’s connection to Parker County goes back to long before he and his wife, Sabrina, and their family moved here five years ago from Burleson.
He and Sabrina have four children between them, a son at Texas A&M University in College Station, a daughter about to graduate from Southwestern Christian High School in Fort Worth, and two other grown daughters. They also have four granddaughters.
“I fell in love with Weatherford immediately,” he said.
He dove right into being a part of the community. Along with his work with the Lions Club, he is on the board of directors for the Weatherford Housing Authority.
He said he also fell in love with the Senior Center on his first visit.
“I came out and visited and saw all sorts of potential. I came out during their activities and saw they’ve got a really sweet spirit in here,” he said. “I want to be clear, I was not unhappy at the food bank. I learned a ton from Julie (Butner, President/CEO).”
This is his first time to work primarily with seniors. He’s anxious to take an already popular program and well-functioning program to a higher level.
“Let’s consider their caretakers. How do you take care of a caretaker?” he said. “What other outreaches can we partner with?
“We need to get a strategic plan, build a staff and team. We have to be really healthy and sustainable, create that synergy. And I want people to say, ‘I want to work there.’”
Long-time friend Jim McPherson said Martin was the perfect choice for the job at the Senior Center.
“I’ve known Steve for 15 years. He brings passion, compassion, and pride. He puts everything into it. He earned his way up the ladder and he’s committed,” McPherson said. “He lived in Burleson when he opened Tarrant Area Food Bank West, but he moved to Weatherford to be part of the community, to get involved.
“The community recognized his dedication and that’s why they wanted him for this position.”
Martin said he immediately saw comparisons between his work at the TAFB and the Senior Center.
“When I walked in, seeing how the seniors interacted with the staff and how the staff worked with them, it was moving,” he said. “I knew I wanted to be a part of this.
“You have to be about the mission. It’s the same with the food bank.”
John Shepherd said Martin brings with him a genuine heart for helping people, along with an understanding of the importance of programs that support some of the area’s most vulnerable neighbors.
“He cares deeply about making sure seniors in our community are taken care of and remain connected,” Shepherd said. “I think that dedication, along with his experience working with people across Parker County, will make him a great fit to lead the PCCOA Senior Center.
“I’m excited to see the positive impact he’ll have in this role.”
Martin said, quite simply, with the population getting older and people living longer, more places like the Senior Center and organizations like the PCCOA are greatly needed. They can also always use help if folks wish to volunteer.
And, of course, donations are always welcome as they are funded primarily by the general public, grants and churches.
“There is always room for more volunteers and financial help. You’re doing something very special when you help,” he said. “I’m excited to be here and I’m thrilled to have as many others join me as we possibly can.
“I’m looking forward to us being able to impact this community in a positive way.”
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