Every month in Harpswell, a growing group of retired men joins the ROMEOs — Retired Older Men Eating Out — for lunchtime gatherings. This event, organized by Harpswell Aging at Home, offers a chance to connect and enjoy delicious homemade meals, often prepared by Robin Venditti Stoll, a retired investment manager who finds joy in cooking for her community.
Robin’s roots trace back to a busy household in Boston, where family gatherings centered around Sunday dinners. Her Irish and Italian heritage turned each meal into a lively event filled with laughter and stories. “We would say grace quickly, then dive into the food like it was a race,” she recalls. The essence of these meals wasn’t just about the food; it was the love and connection they fostered.
Cooking became Robin’s passion. She believes that the secret ingredient is love, a sentiment that resonated with her daughters when they encouraged her to turn her baking skills into a business. While she has no plans to profit from her culinary talents, her daughters jokingly branded her with the tagline, “Baking is love made visible.”
After retiring, Robin dived into community service. She started initiatives like an education foundation in Connecticut, raising over a million dollars to support local schools and senior centers. She often reflects on her experiences volunteering at soup kitchens, where she met incredible people in need, reinforcing her belief in the importance of community and support.
When she moved to Harpswell in 2020, she discovered the Meals in a Pinch program, which inspired her to get involved again. Soon, she found herself delivering meals and, ultimately, cooking for the ROMEOs, where her love for food and community truly flourished.
The monthly lunches have grown to include around 70 men, leading organizers to move the gatherings to the larger Orr’s Island Schoolhouse. This space not only accommodates more participants but also fosters camaraderie. Before the meal, many arrive early just to chat, breaking the cycle of solitude that can come with retirement. Each lunch includes a guest speaker, adding variety to their discussions.
Food often takes center stage. Robin notes that macaroni and cheese is a fan favorite. “It’s a field hockey recipe I used for my daughters’ teams, made with Velveeta for that perfect melt,” she laughs. But she also makes a point to introduce healthy dishes, like chickpea salads and gluten-free options, ensuring she caters to diverse dietary needs.
Robin finds immense fulfillment in these gatherings. Watching men linger after meals, smiles on their faces, fills her with happiness. “I often pack up knowing I made a difference,” she reflects. “This community is special. It’s about neighbors helping each other, and I truly get more out of this than I give.”
The impact of initiatives like ROMEOs goes beyond just meals; they build connections that enrich lives. As experts in community development suggest, these interactions can significantly reduce feelings of isolation among older adults, adding years of quality to their lives. Studies show that social interaction can improve mental and emotional well-being, making programs that foster such connections vital as our population ages. Robin’s experience exemplifies how food acts as a bridge, bringing people together in shared moments of comfort and joy.
In conclusion, the work Robin and her fellow volunteers do highlights the importance of community and connection, particularly in retirement. By serving up meals filled with love and fostering friendships, they create a space where everyone feels valued and supported.
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