by Cynthia Germain

We’ve all heard the phrase “food for the soul,” and what it seems to say is that it’s not about the recipes but the connection it brings.

I recently came across the U.S. Surgeon General’s thoughtful and engaging guide called Recipes for Connection, offering practical ways to strengthen our social bonds and improve overall well-being. Just like a good cookbook, this one offers all the ingredients and steps, in an inspiring way. And like any good recipe, it’s meant to be shared.

At the heart of the guide is a simple truth we already know: human connection is essential to health. Whether you’re rekindling an old friendship, chatting with a neighbor, or organizing a family game night, these small moments of connection add up—boosting emotional, mental, and even physical health. In fact, studies show that strong social bonds can help reduce the risk of dementia, depression, and heart disease. Connection isn’t just nice. It’s necessary.

Here in Door County, we’re already stirring the pot when it comes to connection. The Aging Coalition of Door County has been championing social wellness through its Monthly Social Bingo Challenge, a lighthearted and low-pressure way to get involved, reach out, and even get out of the house.

Each month, the Bingo card features simple actions—like attending a local event, calling a friend, sharing a story, or even just smiling at someone new. They may seem small, but collectively, they build the social muscle that helps us age well and live fully. It’s connection, one bingo at a time.

The beauty of this challenge is that anyone can participate—on your own, with a group, or even as part of your church, book club, or neighborhood. We’ve even heard from folks who keep them on the fridge, checking off each square with joy and pride.

The Recipes for Connection guide offers ideas that blend beautifully with what the Aging Coalition has already put on the table . Here are a few examples (yes, there’s bingo squares for these):

• Meet someone for dessert or ice cream (mm mm…ice cream).
• Share a recipe with a friend or relative (food is the universal connector).
• Invite someone to join you for a picnic (who doesn’t love a picnic).

Whether you’re using the Recipes for Connection guide or filling out your Bingo card, these small steps create meaningful moments—and meaningful lives. So let’s keep stirring the pot here in Door County. Let’s check off those Bingo squares, try a new “recipe,” and most importantly, let’s keep cooking up ways to connect with each other.