Rotary Service and Fundraising Opportunities for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL
Context:
A recent letter to the editor (“Simple acts can help fight homelessness”) highlights the continued presence of homelessness and housing insecurity in the Lake County area, including Gurnee and Waukegan. Residents encounter homeless families and are encouraged to support efforts at local food pantries and shelters.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community Health; Basic Needs
Potential Partners: - PADS Lake County (Providing Advocacy, Dignity & Shelter): The largest direct service provider for people experiencing homelessness in the county. - Northern Illinois Food Bank: Supporting food access for families in need. - Local churches and interfaith organizations: Many offer programs for unhoused individuals.
Next Steps:
a. Service project: Organize a “Welcome Home Kits” drive, collecting basic household essentials (bedding, cookware, hygiene products) for individuals and families transitioning from homelessness to housing, working in partnership with PADS. Rotary members can host kit assembly days and distribute materials directly to those moving into permanent housing.
b. Fundraiser: Host a “Rotary Cares Community Walk” to raise money and public awareness for local shelters and outreach programs. Secure sponsorships from local businesses, and coordinate with village/city officials to ensure high visibility and community engagement.
Context:
A news report and letter describe a recent incident in Lake County where an undocumented father of three Marines was detained and injured by ICE agents. This has brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by immigrants, including trauma, family separation, and restricted access to resources.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Peace & Conflict Prevention/Resolution; Supporting Families
Potential Partners: - Mano a Mano Family Resource Center (Round Lake): Specializes in immigrant-focused outreach, legal support, and family stabilization in Lake County. - Catholic Charities Lake County Services: Provides immigrant support programs, legal aid, and counseling services. - Waukegan Public Library: Offers regular citizenship, English classes, and legal clinics.
Next Steps:
a. Service project: Organize a multicultural legal clinic and mental wellness fair, connecting immigrant families with attorneys, counselors, and social workers. Invite Mano a Mano and Catholic Charities as partners, and use Rotary volunteers as event guides and logistics helpers.
b. Fundraiser: Launch a “Family Unity” campaign to raise emergency funds for local immigrant families experiencing hardship from detention or legal battles. Proceeds can support legal costs and family counseling, with updates and impact reports shared at club meetings and community events.
1. Environmental & Lake Health Initiative: “Lake Michigan Artificial Reefs & Shoreline Protection”
Context:
Recent research in Lake County focuses on the construction of artificial reefs in Lake Michigan to help slow shoreline erosion and boost fish populations. The work highlights community-wide concern about climate change, shoreline loss, and ecological decline. Rotary International has a strong emphasis on protecting the environment, making this a timely and mission-aligned project for local clubs.
Potential Partners:
- Local environmental organizations such as the Lake County Forest Preserves and Alliance for the Great Lakes
- Research teams from local universities involved in the Lake Michigan artificial reefs project
- Municipalities (City of Waukegan, Gurnee, etc.)
- Local fishing and boating associations
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Next Steps:
- Contact lead researchers or local agencies (e.g., representatives quoted in coverage such as Lily Carey’s article) to offer volunteer or fundraising support for shoreline restoration and reef projects
- Organize a community volunteer event for beach cleanups, educational workshops about erosion, and advocacy on behalf of sustainable shoreline initiatives
- Launch a fundraising campaign (e.g., “Boulders for the Bay”) where donors can sponsor reef components, with donor recognition, to help finance further projects
- Work with schools and scout groups for youth involvement and environmental education components
2. Youth Opportunity & Education: “North Chicago/D187 Scholarships and Mentoring”
Context:
The North Chicago District 187 (D187) scholarship program has grown steadily, nurturing economically sustainable careers for young residents. Starting with six students in 2020, it had 26 scholars by 2025, demonstrating expanding community impact. Many local youth still lack resources for career development, and Rotary’s commitment to supporting education and opportunities for children and youth fits directly with this initiative.
Potential Partners:
- North Chicago Community Partners
- District 187 administrators (potentially State Rep. Rita Mayfield, who is involved in youth and education issues)
- Local colleges and trade schools
- Lake County Workforce Development
- Corporate sponsors for internship or scholarship matching
Next Steps:
- Meet with D187 scholarship coordinators and Rep. Mayfield to assess unmet needs—especially for mentorship, internships, or additional scholarships
- Host a fundraising event, such as a community dinner or online auction, specifically supporting additional scholarships and summer career-exploration activities
- Deploy Rotarian volunteers to serve as one-on-one mentors or organize skills workshops (resume writing, college application support, interview skills) for scholarship recipients and local youth
- Explore partnerships with local businesses for job shadowing or internship placements, tying Rotary support to measurable life and career outcomes for young participants
These opportunities invite active Rotary engagement with current concerns in Lake County, responding directly to news, while aligning with Rotary’s core areas of focus.
1. Youth Literacy and Academic Achievement: Spelling Bee Support and Expansion Initiative
Context:
Lake County seventh-grader Visharad Sathish has won the local spelling bee and is representing Lake County at the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This demonstrates both individual student excellence and significant engagement in academic enrichment programs, as 73 schools and hundreds of students participated in local competitions. Building on this momentum, there is a clear opportunity to broaden support for youth literacy and education programs.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local PTAs/parent organizations
- Lake County public libraries
- Local educational nonprofits (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, United Way of Lake County)
- Area schools and teachers
Next Steps:
1. Meet with the Lake County Regional Office of Education and PTA representatives to explore needs for literacy enrichment and competition funding.
2. Organize an annual Rotary-sponsored Academic Achievement Fundraiser to support participation fees, travel expenses for qualifying students (like Visharad Sathish), and resources for schools with limited funding to run their own bees or literacy events.
3. Host Rotary-led spelling or literacy fairs at local libraries and schools, featuring practice rounds, workshops, and parent information sessions.
4. Offer volunteer mentors and reading buddies from the Rotary membership for students interested in language arts.
5. Work with local media to amplify success stories and promote future spelling/literacy events.
2. Environmental and Community Health Initiative: Lake Michigan Shoreline & Urban Greenspace Enhancement
Context:
Community priorities throughout Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, include the preservation and improvement of parks, green spaces, and the Lake Michigan shoreline. With ongoing environmental concerns such as shoreline erosion, trash accumulation, and the need for safe, healthy recreation areas, there are timely opportunities for Rotary to make a visible impact in line with the environment and community health focus area.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District
- Gurnee Park District
- Lake County Forest Preserve District
- Local chapters of organizations such as Sierra Club or Friends of Lake Michigan
- Municipal sustainability offices
- Local youth groups/scouts
Next Steps:
1. Contact Parks and Forest Preserve leaders to identify pressing needs—such as invasive species removal, shoreline cleanups, tree planting, or park improvements—and to align on project priorities.
2. Plan and publicize a series of Rotary Community Clean-Up Days along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Waukegan and in Gurnee’s key parks, inviting families and partnering organizations to participate.
3. Organize a fundraising campaign to install additional benches, recycling stations, or pollinator gardens in local parks or along walking/biking paths.
4. Engage school eco-clubs or scouts for education and stewardship activities tied to the event, and offer a Rotary “Environmental Stewardship Award” to youth leaders.
5. Establish a feedback loop with local residents so Rotary can remain responsive and advocate for longer-term environmental enhancements.
1. Food Insecurity Relief Initiative
Context:
Recent reports indicate a spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, reflecting a growing need for food assistance in Lake County, including Grayslake, Waukegan, and Gurnee. Rising costs, economic uncertainty, and pandemic aftereffects continue to strain vulnerable families.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Libertyville Township Food Pantry
- Local businesses (e.g., Ray Auto Group in Grayslake) for sponsorships and collection sites
- Local schools and faith communities for outreach and volunteer recruitment
Next Steps:
- Connect with Northern Illinois Food Bank and local pantries to determine most urgent needs (specific items, funds, volunteers).
- Launch a community food and essentials drive at local events, businesses, and civic centers.
- Organize Rotary volunteers for food sorting, distribution, and delivery—especially to seniors or those without transportation.
- Develop a public awareness campaign, leveraging local media and social networks to maximize participation.
- Evaluate outcomes and share results with the community to foster continued support and identify ongoing service opportunities.
2. Youth Mental Health & Safety Awareness Project
Context:
Recent local news highlighted incidents involving hate crimes, threats against the LGBTQ+ community, and increasing social pressures on youth. Combined with concerns about speeding and neighborhood safety, there’s a mounting need to support youth well-being, inclusiveness, and safety in Lake County communities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department (Youth Behavioral Health team)
- Gurnee and Waukegan Public Schools
- LGBTQ+ community organizations (e.g., Youth Outlook, PFLAG Lake County)
- Police and fire departments for safety seminars
- Community venues such as the Byron Colby Barn for hosting events
Next Steps:
- Meet with local health and school officials to identify gaps in youth mental health resources and anti-bullying initiatives.
- Plan and sponsor a series of "Safe Spaces & Strong Minds" events—workshops on mental health awareness, anti-bullying, and neighborhood safety for youth and parents.
- Incorporate expert speakers, peer leaders, and resource tables for local support services.
- Promote inclusiveness and mental health destigmatization through school art or essay contests, public displays, and social media campaigns.
- Establish a Rotary youth grant fund for local initiatives that foster wellness, resilience, and inclusive community engagement.
1. "Fresh Start: Rotary Healthy Food Drive & Cooking Demo" at Waukegan Waterfront Market
Context:
The Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina (multiple dates: July 25, August 22, September 26) serves as a gathering place for the community, featuring fresh produce, local vendors, and family activities. Food insecurity remains a significant issue in Lake County, particularly in Waukegan, where many families have difficulty accessing healthy, affordable food.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health
By supporting local food security and promoting healthy eating habits, this project aligns with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and treatment as well as maternal and child health.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Lake County Health Department
- Local chefs or culinary students
- Waukegan Main Street Association (event organizer)
Next Steps:
a) Contact the Waterfront Market coordinators (Waukegan Main Street Association) for permission to organize a booth or activity.
b) Partner with the Northern Illinois Food Bank to set up a fresh produce donation drop-off at the market—encouraging visitors to "give a little extra."
c) Invite a local chef or culinary student group to host a short, interactive healthy cooking demonstration using common market ingredients.
d) Rotary members can distribute simple, healthy recipes and resource brochures about local food pantries.
e) Offer blood pressure screenings in collaboration with the health department to provide a holistic health check-in.
f) Publicize the event through Rotary, local social media, and press contacts.
2. "Ready to Learn: Rotary Early Childhood Literacy & Child Care Resource Fair" at the Round Lake Park District Open House
Context:
The Child Care Open House on July 16 at the Robert W. Rolek Community Center (Round Lake Area Park District) addresses a rising need in Lake County for accessible, quality early childhood education and resources for working families. Supporting early education is proven to strengthen long-term academic and social outcomes.
Rotary Area of Focus: Basic Education & Literacy; Supporting Women & Children
Promoting literacy, supporting parents, and empowering families directly fits Rotary’s core values.
Potential Partners:
- Round Lake Area Park District
- United Way of Lake County (Success By 6 initiative)
- Local libraries (Grayslake Area or Waukegan Public Libraries)
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Book Drive (e.g., Bernie’s Book Bank or Rotary-sponsored collection)
Next Steps:
a) Contact Round Lake Area Park District to coordinate Rotary participation at the open house.
b) Organize a new or gently used children’s book drive, collecting books in the weeks prior for distribution at the event.
c) Collaborate with United Way (Success By 6) to include literacy kits and parent resource handouts.
d) Set up a Rotary booth with volunteers leading storytime sessions and providing registration information for local library cards and literacy programs.
e) Invite other area organizations (public health, social services) to expand the resource fair aspect.
f) Publicize through social media, local schools, churches, and daycares to reach families in need.
1. “Feed the Need” Community Food Drive & Fundraising Event
Context:
The Hunger Resource Network is hosting a fundraising golf outing on August 6 at Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling, focused on combatting food insecurity across Lake County. Local food need continues to be significant, particularly in Waukegan and Gurnee, given the economic challenges some families face. Partnering with the Hunger Resource Network both amplifies Rotary’s impact and meets an immediate, critical need.
Potential Partners:
- Hunger Resource Network
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local school districts (District 60/Waukegan Public Schools, District 56/Gurnee)
- Local businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire, community restaurants)
- Faith-based organizations
Next Steps:
- Contact the Hunger Resource Network’s event organizer (possibly Alan Blitz, Volunteer Media Writer per news post) to discuss Rotary’s involvement as an event partner or sponsor.
- Coordinate with school districts to share information and identify families most in need.
- Arrange Rotary club member volunteers for the fundraising event, and/or organize a “satellite” local food drive in conjunction with or following the golf outing.
- Publicize the initiative through Patch, school newsletters, and direct outreach.
- Use proceeds to support area food pantries and/or weekend backpack food programs for youth.
2. Lake County Youth Safe Summer Initiative
Context:
The Lake Forest Police Department’s “Positive Tickets” and “Coupons for Good Behavior” program rewards local kids for safe, positive choices over the summer. Expanding or partnering on this program provides a great opportunity to both mentor local youth in Waukegan, Gurnee, and broader Lake County communities and reinforce safe and healthy behaviors, particularly as summer brings higher risk of idle time-related incidents.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest Police Department
- Waukegan Police Department, Gurnee Police Department
- Park districts (Waukegan, Gurnee, Lake Forest)
- Local businesses for reward coupons (Yogen Fruz, Six Flags Great America, movie theaters, etc.)
- Local schools and youth clubs (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Officer or community liaison leading the Positive Tickets initiative in Lake Forest to learn program details and best practices.
- Coordinate with local police departments to replicate or expand the reward program, with Rotary as a program sponsor and volunteer mentor provider.
- Approach area businesses to sponsor reward items (small treats, tickets, coupons).
- Create a schedule of Rotary volunteers to help “catch” kids making good choices—wearing helmets, picking up litter, helping others—and distribute rewards.
- Publicize the program in Patch, social media, and through school and camp newsletters.
- Evaluate potential for ongoing partnership into the school year, linking to youth leadership or peer mentoring programming.
These projects align with Rotary’s focus areas on community health, basic needs (food security), and supporting youth development and safety.
Based on recent news in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, two pressing community needs emerge: promoting youth safety and well-being in response to local violence/accidents, and advancing community health and safety given multiple serious traffic incidents. Both issues align with Rotary’s areas of focus, specifically youth and education as well as community health and safety.
1. Youth & Community Safety Initiative: "Safe Summer" Fairs and Workshops
Context:
Recent incidents including a shooting at Six Flags in Gurnee and a DUI crash that injured children in Wadsworth have heightened concerns about youth safety and violence around community gathering places. The need for proactive education and mental health support is pressing for both youth and families.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department
- Lake County Health Department
- Local school districts (e.g., Woodland CCSD 50, Gurnee School District 56)
- Six Flags Great America (community relations)
- Youth-serving non-profits (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to potential partners to form a planning coalition for "Safe Summer" events.
- Identify key locations (schools, parks, community centers) for workshops.
- Plan interactive sessions including anti-violence education, safe behavior in public spaces, and substance abuse prevention.
- Secure guest speakers from law enforcement, health care, and mental health services.
- Apply for small grants and seek sponsorships to fund outreach and materials.
- Publicize events through schools and partner social media channels.
2. Lake County Road Safety and Victims Assistance Campaign
Context:
A surge in serious traffic incidents—including multiple DUI crashes (with fatalities and child victims) and a motorcyclist critically injured in Crystal Lake—underscores the need for both prevention and support for accident victims. There is an opportunity to reduce future harm through education and direct assistance, in line with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and community health.
Potential Partners:
- Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Illinois Chapter
- Local hospitals (Advocate Condell Medical Center, Vista Medical Center)
- Libertyville and Lake County police departments
Next Steps:
- Meet with IDOT and local law enforcement to identify priority educational needs and intersection "hotspots".
- Develop a fundraising event (e.g., community 5k, car seat safety clinic) to support victim assistance funds at local hospitals and promote safe driving.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers for Safe Driving Days: distributing educational materials, hosting simulator demonstrations, and providing free child car seat checks.
- Work with MADD and hospitals to offer workshops for youth and parents on DUI prevention and coping after trauma.
- Report back to community on outcomes and potential for program expansion.
These projects provide immediate, meaningful service and have clear Rotary impact within Lake County’s current needs.