Context:
The report of a record-high number of measles cases in the United States—at least 1,277 cases, the highest in 33 years—underscores a pressing need for increased vaccination efforts. Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, has diverse populations, including communities with barriers to healthcare access and recent increases in vaccine hesitancy. Proactive outreach and education are critical to safeguarding public health and supporting families.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Gurnee School District 56)
- Local houses of worship and community centers
- Pediatricians and family health clinics
- Walgreens/CVS Pharmacy for on-site vaccination events
Next Steps:
- Convene an exploratory meeting with the Lake County Health Department to assess current outreach efforts and identify any gaps in underserved areas.
- Develop Rotary-led educational programming and outreach, including multilingual resources, targeting parents and caregivers—especially in communities with lower vaccination rates.
- Collaborate to host free or low-cost vaccination clinics at accessible sites such as schools, churches, or libraries, leveraging both medical professionals and Rotary volunteers.
- Engage in media outreach to promote the clinics and spread factual, trust-building information about measles vaccination.
Context:
The College of Lake County’s theater production of “Hairspray: The Broadway Musical” shines a spotlight on creative arts as a vehicle for youth empowerment, education, and community inclusion. With many local teens in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding areas lacking access to theater or arts programming, there is an opportunity to foster confidence, collaboration, and cultural enrichment among at-risk or underserved youth.
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts)
- Local high schools and middle schools
- Waukegan Park District and Gurnee Park District
- Local youth advocacy organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Partner with the College of Lake County to offer subsidized tickets or group outings for youth from underserved communities to attend “Hairspray.”
- Organize pre-show workshops or post-show discussions with performers and directors, focusing on theater arts, social issues in the show (diversity, inclusion), and career pathways in the arts.
- Seek sponsorships and/or run a Rotary fundraising event (“Raise the Curtain for Youth”) to support arts camp scholarships and access to workshops throughout the year.
- Publicize opportunities through local schools, libraries, and non-profit partners to maximize participation and long-term engagement.
Both projects align strongly with Rotary’s areas of focus (community health and disease prevention; education and youth development) and leverage recent news as a launchpad for immediate, relevant service.
1. Mental Health and Community Resilience Project: Remembrance Ceremony and Youth Support
Context:
The return of the Highland Park July 4 remembrance ceremony highlights the community’s ongoing need for healing, mental health support, and resilience-building after traumatic events. Youth and families across Lake County continue to be impacted by community violence and tragedies, with schools (like D113) acknowledging technology addiction and social challenges among students. Rotary’s focus on community health, mental health, and supporting youth aligns well with these local needs.
Potential Partners: - Highland Park Community Foundation (organizer of previous remembrance initiatives) - District 113 and school social workers/counselors - Local mental health organizations: NAMI Lake County, Youth & Family Counseling - Synagogues, churches, and community centers involved in remembrance activities
Next Steps: - Connect with the Highland Park Community Foundation and District 113 to explore ways Rotary can supplement post-trauma services, such as funding group counseling sessions, workshops on coping/resilience, or youth empowerment seminars. - Organize a community conversation or panel event featuring trauma counselors, youth speakers, and community leaders. - Launch a fundraising campaign for ongoing mental health services in schools, emphasizing accessibility for all students and families. - Recruit Rotary volunteers to support remembrance events, logistics, or awareness campaigns, demonstrating continued solidarity and service.
2. Youth Digital Wellness and Safe Spaces Campaign: Schools and Cell Phone Policy Support
Context:
District 113 introduced a tougher school cell phone policy to combat a “tech addiction crisis,” reflecting urgent concerns about student mental health, focus, and safe environments. Educators and parents are seeking solutions for digital wellness, responsible technology use, and fostering real-life social connections among youth.
Potential Partners: - District 113 administration and school boards in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County - Local PTA/PTO organizations - Lake County Health Department (Student Health and Prevention Services) - Local libraries and after-school providers (such as Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps: - Collaborate with District 113 and PTA groups to develop and sponsor digital wellness workshops for students and parents (covering healthy tech habits, cyberbullying prevention, mental health impacts, etc.). - Organize student contests or “phone-free” community events that encourage creativity, teamwork, and technology breaks—potentially as a fundraising opportunity (entry fees, sponsorships). - Provide or seek grants for “tech-free” resource kits or spaces in schools and community centers. - Advocate for policy discussion panels with students, teachers, and tech experts on balancing digital and real-world experiences, facilitated by Rotary volunteers.
These two opportunities would visibly address immediate, high-profile needs in Lake County while aligning with Rotary's commitment to youth development, community health, and resilience.
1. Spelling Bee Booster Program and Literacy Fundraiser
Context:
The remarkable performance of Visharad Sathish, a 12-year-old from Lake County who is representing the region at the Scripps National Spelling Bee, highlights both academic excellence and the value of student enrichment opportunities. With 73 schools and hundreds of students participating in the regional bee, there is clear community interest in educational enrichment and literacy.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (Michael Karner, regional superintendent; Courtney Curry, assistant superintendent)
- Local schools such as Lake Forest Country Day School and John Lewis Middle School
- Public libraries in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Grayslake
- Local businesses for sponsorship
- PTA/PTO and parent organizations
Next Steps:
a. Connect with the Lake County Regional Office of Education to discuss gaps in after-school academic enrichment and ways Rotary can support or expand spelling bee participation, reading programs, and preparatory resources.
b. Design a “Spelling Bee Booster” fundraiser (scrabble tournaments, spelling contests for adults, or book donation drives) to fund travel and study materials for local students, especially those from under-resourced schools.
c. Organize community reading nights or spelling challenges at libraries to promote literacy as a fun, community-focused activity.
d. Launch a Rotary-funded scholarship or grant for students who qualify for state/national academic competitions to offset costs and encourage greater participation.
2. Youth Resilience & Enrichment Workshops
Context:
The coverage of the marathon spelling bee—marked by dedication, family involvement, and student camaraderie—shows the need for broader youth development, emotional resilience, and academic mentorship. Student statements and the support of parents and teachers (like Ashley Whitaker of John Lewis Middle School) reveal the intense pressure and sustained effort these opportunities require, suggesting value in stress management, study skills, and mentorship programs.
Potential Partners:
- School counselors and the Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local youth organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County
- Mental health professionals and youth coaches
- Local businesses or medical centers with a focus on youth wellness
- School district parent advisory groups
Next Steps:
a. Meet with the Regional Office of Education and middle school staff to assess current student needs related to stress, academic pressure, and access to academic mentoring.
b. Develop a series of Rotary-hosted workshops or after-school programs on stress management, growth mindset, study skills, and peer mentoring; feature past spelling bee participants (like Visharad Sathish) as youth ambassadors.
c. Seek volunteer professionals to lead sessions, and secure funding for materials and refreshments.
d. Promote these programs in partnership with PTAs, leveraging Rotary’s expertise and local credibility to ensure high family engagement.
e. Evaluate the impact via surveys and participant feedback, adjusting offerings to include topics such as test anxiety, time management, and emotional wellbeing.
Both projects align with Rotary’s focus on education and youth development, leveraging timely community achievements and needs to strengthen local support systems for children and families in Lake County.
Project 1: Child and Youth Injury Prevention Campaign in Lake County
Context:
Recent news highlights two serious vehicle-pedestrian crashes over the July 4th weekend in Lake County, one of which critically injured a 4-year-old girl and several others in Wadsworth, and another where a 67-year-old man was struck while crossing a Round Lake intersection. These events underscore an urgent need to improve road safety awareness and pedestrian protection, particularly for children and families.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Sheriff's Office (recently active in safety-related initiatives) - Local hospitals (e.g., Advocate Condell Medical Center) - Lake County Department of Public Health - Local school districts and PTA organizations
Next Steps: - Reach out to the Lake County Sheriff's Office to discuss data-driven hot spots for pedestrian injuries and opportunities for collaboration. - Develop bilingual (English/Spanish) educational materials on crosswalk safety, driver awareness, and safe walking/biking to school, tailored for local neighborhoods. - Organize a "Safe Streets Day" event with demonstrations, helmet fittings, and interactive safety training for kids and families. - Apply for a Rotary District Grant to fund safety signage or reflective gear distributions at area schools. - Seek media coverage through local news outlets (e.g., Grayslake Patch) to amplify the campaign’s reach.
Project 2: Human Trafficking Awareness & Prevention Initiative
Context:
Lake County authorities recently arrested 27 individuals during a two-day human trafficking sting, indicating ongoing exploitation in the area. There is an acute need for community education, victim assistance, and support for vulnerable populations, especially youth.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Sheriff's Office (anti-trafficking division) - A Safe Place (Lake County’s leading domestic violence & human trafficking prevention nonprofit) - Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office - School counselors and youth centers (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County) - Faith-based organizations
Next Steps: - Convene a planning session with A Safe Place and law enforcement to assess current gaps in victim support and public awareness. - Host a public seminar series and distribute informational materials to parents, teachers, and local businesses on recognizing and reporting signs of trafficking. - Launch a targeted fundraising campaign (e.g., awareness walk, gala, or online auction) to support direct services for survivors—such as emergency shelter, legal aid, and counseling. - Advocate for victim-centered policy updates by collaborating with local government leaders. - Establish a Rotary-sponsored scholarship for trafficking survivors to pursue vocational training or education.
Both projects directly support Rotary’s focus on child and maternal health, peace and conflict prevention, education, and community safety.
1. Rotary Youth Community Wellness Day at Unplug Illinois Day
Context:
The Unplug Illinois Day at Hero Park (Round Lake Beach) on July 12 encourages families and youth to enjoy outdoor activities and reduce screen time, promoting physical and mental wellness. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on youth development, community health, and supporting families post-pandemic as children return to regular social interactions and healthy habits.
Potential Partners:
- Round Lake Area Park District (event hosts)
- Local healthcare providers (Advocate Aurora Health, Rosalind Franklin University)
- Mental health organizations (Lake County Health Department)
- Youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Local schools and PTAs
- Rotary Interact and Rotaract clubs
Next Steps:
- Connect with Round Lake Area Park District to co-sponsor or add programming to the event (wellness booths, physical activity challenges, mindfulness activities, or free resources).
- Involve Interact/Rotaract students in planning and leading activities (relay races, yoga, nutrition demos).
- Arrange for local medical or mental health professionals to provide basic screenings, wellness info, and resource handouts.
- Seek sponsorships/donations for healthy snacks, prizes, or equipment.
- Create a communications plan to promote participation and Rotary’s involvement before and during the event.
- Collect feedback from families to measure impact and identify future needs.
2. Rotary Green Team: Community Garden & Sustainability Outreach at Grayslake in Bloom
Context:
"Grayslake in Bloom – Community Garden Walk" (July 12) celebrates local gardens and brings together residents interested in sustainability, food production, and beautifying neighborhoods. Community gardening addresses food insecurity, environmental sustainability, and education – key Rotary areas. Partnering for garden enhancements or launching new garden sites tackles food access and builds environmental stewardship.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Garden Club (organizers)
- Grayslake Park District
- Grayslake Area Public Library (for education/outreach)
- Prairie Crossing Learning Farm
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local schools (for STEM/environmental education tie-ins)
Next Steps:
- Contact Grayslake Garden Club and Park District to offer Rotary volunteers for event support or to host a “Green Team” booth (composting demos, pollinator education, garden startup kits).
- Identify opportunities for a Rotary-funded “community plot” at an existing garden or the development of a new one at a local school, church, or park.
- Develop partnerships for seasonal garden mentor programs, inviting Interact/Rotaract youth to learn and help.
- Fundraise through a plant sale (in-person or pre-sale) at the Garden Walk or at the library’s Brown Bag Book Sale (July 12) to benefit the garden program or a related hunger-relief project.
- Create educational workshops (soil health, container gardening, water conservation) with the library and local experts, branding all with Rotary’s logo.
- Measure success by harvest yield, number of participants, and partnerships formed.
These opportunities enhance visibility, meet genuine local needs, and reinforce Rotary’s commitments to youth, health, and the environment in Lake County.
1. Community Health: Summer Food and Utility Relief Initiative
Context:
Recent news reports highlight that many Lake County residents, including those in Lake Forest, Waukegan, and Gurnee, are struggling with high summer energy bills and food insecurity. ComEd is offering $10 million in bill assistance, and food pantries are asking for support at local farmers markets. These indicate a heightened need for supplemental assistance with both basic nutrition and utilities—issues at the core of Rotary's commitment to supporting community health.
Potential Partners:
- ComEd (to help publicize and expand awareness of their bill assistance program)
- Local Township Food Pantries (such as the Buffalo Grove Food Pantry and any within Waukegan or Gurnee)
- Community Farmers Markets (Buffalo Grove, Gurnee, Waukegan)
- Local businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire) willing to serve as drop-off or event host sites
Next Steps:
- Connect with ComEd and area food pantries to understand current needs and gaps in service.
- Organize a month-long Rotary-led drive in summer for food donations, fundraising, and a “Sponsor a Bill” campaign to pay overdue utility bills for families in crisis.
- Set up booths at weekend farmers markets for both food collection and utility bill assistance sign-ups.
- Recruit local business partners to host collection boxes and share program details with their customers.
- Work with local media (e.g., Patch, Rachel Barnes) to promote opportunities for community support and participation.
2. Education: Rotary Literacy & Resource Drive in Response to Statewide Education Cuts
Context:
A recent report flagged a pause on $218 million in Illinois education funds, with significant local impacts anticipated. These funding gaps could mean reduced resources for children in underfunded schools across Lake County communities, including Gurnee and Waukegan, negatively affecting access to books, educational materials, and youth support services.
Potential Partners:
- School Districts of Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County (for needs assessment and direct deployment of resources)
- Local libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Gurnee’s Warren-Newport Public Library)
- Youth service organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, United Way of Lake County)
- Local bookstores or educational supply shops
Next Steps:
- Meet with school district representatives to identify the most acute resource gaps (e.g., books for summer reading, classroom supplies, STEM kits).
- Launch a Rotary “Stuff the Bus” drive, inviting community members to donate new books, school supplies, and learning materials at easily accessible locations (libraries, local businesses, Rotary events).
- Organize a Rotary Read-In Day, recruiting volunteers to read with children and distribute donated materials.
- Partner with youth service agencies and the United Way to ensure that resources reach students most affected by the cuts.
- Publicize impact stories in local news to demonstrate support for education in challenging times and encourage continued donations.
1. Promote Safe Driving & Support Accident Victims: "Safe Rides, Stronger Communities" Initiative
Context:
Lake County has recently experienced a fatal DUI incident during Fourth of July weekend in Wadsworth, resulting in one death and serious injuries, including a 4-year-old girl. The pain and societal cost of impaired driving remain high in this region.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community health and safety, supporting victims of violence/trauma.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Illinois chapter
- Local hospitals and trauma centers (e.g., Advocate Condell Medical Center)
- School districts for youth education (such as Gurnee School District 56 and Waukegan School District 60)
Next Steps:
- Convene an initial roundtable with law enforcement, victim advocates, and medical providers for input on greatest needs (awareness, victim support, prevention programs).
- Organize a community event for safe driving awareness with educational booths, testimonies from survivors and first responders, and children’s activities.
- Launch a fundraising drive (virtual and in-person) to provide direct support/grants for accident victims and their families, covering medical or counseling expenses.
- Develop a school outreach program, possibly with interactive simulation (like "fatal vision goggles") for students and parent education nights, in collaboration with MADD.
- Explore partnerships with rideshare companies to distribute discounted rides during holidays and large local events.
- Publicize the initiative through local media and the Patch network.
2. Support Restaurant & Hospitality Workers in Crisis: "Service Hearts Relief Fund"
Context:
A local eatery is currently fundraising for a beloved server who recently had a major accident, highlighting a broader need: restaurant and hospitality workers often lack safety nets during crises.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community economic development and supporting vulnerable workers.
Potential Partners:
- Local businesses and chambers of commerce (including Libertyville, Gurnee, Waukegan, and Vernon Hills)
- Lake County Community Foundation
- Restaurant worker advocacy organizations (e.g., Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation)
- Media partners (Patch staff, local news outlets)
Next Steps:
- Meet with the affected restaurant management and server’s family to identify specific financial gaps and immediate needs not covered by existing fundraising.
- Launch the "Service Hearts Relief Fund," a Rotary-backed emergency grant program for local hospitality workers facing unexpected hardship (accident, illness, natural disaster).
- Organize an annual fundraising event, such as a Dine-Around or celebrity server night, inviting local restaurants to participate, with proceeds going to the relief fund.
- Create a simple online application process and publicize the fund through local business networks, ensuring affected workers can apply confidentially.
- Recognize sponsor restaurants and donors through Rotary publicity channels and thank-you events.
- Evaluate success and adjust the fund’s criteria or process after the first year.
By addressing both the immediate effects of traumatic events and the ongoing needs of at-risk workers, these Rotary initiatives will make a measurable difference in Lake County communities.