On Thanksgiving Day, hundreds of residents gathered at the Romeo Masonic Temple in Romeo, Michigan, to partake in a community dinner that served over 600 meals. The event, coordinated by James Routheaux, general manager of the local Wendy’s, and Justin Park, an electrician and elected trustee, is a longstanding tradition aimed at fostering community spirit.
Volunteers Rally to Serve the Community
Supported by about 100 volunteers, the community dinner has grown significantly since its inception. The first event served around 50 meals, showcasing the increasing need for communal support and connection, particularly during the holidays. This year, the organized efforts included meal deliveries for first responders in Romeo and surrounding areas, as well as local businesses.
The holiday feast featured a traditional menu, including turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, rolls, green beans, corn, stuffing, and a selection of desserts like pies and cupcakes. Guests enjoyed their meals while watching the Detroit Lions compete against the Green Bay Packers on a large-screen television, although the Lions faced a disappointing loss.
Routheaux expressed the essence of the occasion: “We as a society have forgotten what it’s like to be good to people. In my opinion, we should just be good to each other. That’s what today’s all about.” His commitment to the community was evident as he dedicated his day off to support this initiative.
Building Community Connections
Park echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of fellowship on a day that emphasizes gratitude. “We’ve always known there’s a need for companionship on a day like Thanksgiving, when we’re giving thanks. There are plenty of people who don’t have families or friends around, so we want to be there for everyone,” he stated.
Local businesses, including DEQ Property Services, Romeo Florist Flowers, and Verellen Orchards, also contributed to the success of the event, demonstrating a collective effort to uplift the community. Volunteers willingly sacrificed their own holiday time, underscoring the strong sense of community that characterizes Romeo.
Reflecting on his two-decade residence in Romeo, Routheaux noted, “When I moved here from Port Huron 20 years ago, I knew this was my home. You feel like you want to give back because it’s just so nice here.” His words resonate with the spirit of the Thanksgiving dinner, which aims not only to provide nourishment but also to strengthen the bonds among community members.
The event exemplifies the power of community engagement and the impact of collective goodwill, serving as a reminder of the importance of kindness and support, particularly during festive seasons.
