Certainly. Based on available recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, and aligning with Rotary’s areas of focus, here are two actionable service or fundraising opportunities with context, partners, and next steps:
1. Community Resilience and Emergency Preparedness Series (Area: Community Health & Disaster Response)
Context:
Recent issues highlighted—such as Alaska Airlines’ national tech outage grounding all flights—underscore the importance of local resilience when infrastructure or systems fail. Severe weather and climate-related events are of growing concern. Although not specifically mentioned in these day’s news for Lake County, community readiness for tech, weather, or health disruptions remains a high-priority, ongoing need that cross-cuts with Rotary’s commitment to health and disaster response.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Emergency Management Agency
- Local chapters of Citizens Climate Lobby (as mentioned in Joe Tedino’s news item)
- Gurnee and Waukegan Fire/Police Departments
- Area high schools and community colleges
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with Emergency Management officials to identify gaps in household or neighborhood preparedness.
- Develop and promote a free, public workshop series on emergency kits, communication plans, and climate resilience (possibly leveraging Citizen Climate Lobby expertise).
- Seek grant funding or local business sponsorships for supply purchases (like emergency radios, first aid kits) for low-income or at-risk residents.
- Publicize events via schools, faith organizations, and partner networks to maximize attendance.
2. Accessibility & Inclusion Advocacy Fair (Area: Inclusion, Community Health, and Youth Empowerment)
Context:
A letter from the Chicago Central Lions Club highlights the ongoing need for advancing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) goals and celebrating inclusion, but also urges further practical action. Lake County’s diverse population includes many residents with disabilities and their families who benefit from better access, understanding, and inclusion—especially youth and seniors.
Potential Partners:
- Local Lions Clubs (with contacts like the Chicago Central Lions Club president)
- Special recreation associations (e.g., Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County)
- Lake County Center for Independent Living
- School transition coordinators (serving youth with disabilities)
- Libraries and park districts
Next Steps:
- Form a planning committee drawing on Rotary, Lions, and disability advocates.
- Set a date and secure a venue for an “Inclusion Advocacy Fair,” featuring adaptive sports, resource tables, workplace readiness info, and inclusive activities for youth.
- Recruit local service agencies, employment programs, and advocacy groups as exhibitors/participants.
- Pursue media coverage to raise awareness, and develop fundraising strategies (e.g., sponsorships or an inclusive fun run) supporting local inclusion/accessibility projects.
Both opportunities target crucial Rotary areas of focus, strongly reflect current community needs, and are structured for near-term launch with specific partners and action items for Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County.
1. Project: Lake County Food Insecurity Response
Context:
Recent reporting (“In the wake of SNAP cuts, feeding hungry Illinoisans falls more than ever on food pantries”, Sophie Levenson, July 20, 2025) highlights a significant rise in food insecurity across Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, as food prices spike and SNAP benefits are reduced. Local nonprofits and food pantries are under increased strain trying to meet this demand.
Rotary Focus Area: Community Health
Potential Partners: Northern Illinois Food Bank, COOL Ministries (Waukegan), local food pantries (e.g., Warren Township Food Pantry, Mother Teresa Food Pantry), school districts, Lake County Health Department.
Next Steps: - Convene an emergency meeting with local food pantry leaders and service agencies to assess current needs and resource gaps. - Organize a large-scale, community food drive and/or fundraiser during an upcoming community event (such as Gurnee Days or a Waukegan Park District festival). - Recruit Rotary volunteers to staff donation collection sites, secure food/supply donations from local supermarkets, and manage logistics. - Seek grants or matching funds through Rotary International and local businesses to support the ongoing purchase of staple items for pantries. - Explore packaging weekend food kits for school-aged children facing food insecurity (“backpack program”) in partnership with schools for the fall semester.
2. Project: Monarch Butterfly Habitat & Youth Environmental Education Initiative
Context:
A recent feature (“Grayslake residents share passion for monarch butterflies...”, Joseph States, July 17, 2025) spotlights the community’s interest in monarch butterfly conservation, which is relevant as Lake County continues facing environmental pressures from development and climate change. Engaging children and families in hands-on pollinator habitat restoration meets both youth and environmental focus areas.
Rotary Focus Areas: Environment, Education, Youth
Potential Partners: Lake County Forest Preserves, local schools, Grayslake Monarch Initiative, Waukegan Park District, Illinois Extension Master Gardeners, local nurseries.
Next Steps: - Identify and secure a site for a new or expanded community monarch/pollinator garden—such as a local park, forest preserve, or school grounds. - Arrange educational workshops and “planting days” for local youth, possibly incorporating scout troops or school science clubs. - Launch a fundraising campaign to purchase native milkweed and nectar plants, raised garden beds, and educational signage—with possible business sponsorships from local nurseries or landscaping companies. - Work with environmental educators to develop ongoing youth programming (e.g., butterfly lifecycle monitoring, citizen science, art contests). - Publicize habitat progress and youth engagement through local media and Rotary’s social channels to build awareness and inspire replication in other Lake County communities.
1. Youth Literacy and Academic Achievement Support Initiative
Context:
The recent achievement of Visharad Sathish, a Lake County seventh grader, who won the Regional Spelling Bee and is headed to the national competition, highlights both the academic talent present in the community and the need to nurture literacy and educational opportunities among Lake County’s youth. This aligns perfectly with Rotary’s area of focus on education and literacy. Many students, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, may lack access to academic resources, enrichment opportunities, or mentorship that could help them excel and gain confidence—like spelling bees, reading programs, and similar contests.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (Gurnee School District 56, Waukegan Community Unit School District 60)
- Public libraries in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County
- Community organizations such as United Way of Lake County and youth clubs
Next Steps:
a. Convene a meeting with the above partners to discuss launching an annual “Rotary Literacy Challenge” or academic enrichment series, featuring spelling bees, reading clubs, math competitions, and guest mentoring sessions.
b. Recruit Rotarians and local leaders as volunteer coaches and judges.
c. Develop and seek sponsors for a scholarship fund to help winners pursue educational programs or cover costs for regional/national competitions.
d. Host an initial community kickoff event promoting the value of literacy and academic achievement, building enthusiasm among students and parents, and identifying additional volunteers.
e. Seek media coverage to highlight youth achievements and Rotary’s role.
2. Conservation and Topsoil Preservation Community Project
Context:
A recent news item raises alarm regarding Illinois’ accelerating topsoil loss and the urgent recommendations by conservation experts to address the environmental crisis. As agriculture and green spaces are integral to Lake County, there’s a local need for education about soil conservation, hands-on restoration, and youth/community engagement in environmental preservation. This clearly fits Rotary’s focus on protecting the environment, responding to local and global challenges, and building sustainable communities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- University of Illinois Extension (Lake County office)
- Liberty Prairie Foundation
- Local conservation organizations (e.g., Openlands, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods)
- Schools' environmental clubs and youth groups
Next Steps:
a. Organize a “Lake County Rotary Earth Week,” featuring workshops on soil conservation and climate-smart gardening/farming, and hands-on tree and native plantings in vulnerable areas.
b. Develop a school outreach program combining classroom lessons with field trips to restoration sites, perhaps integrating citizen science activities on soil health.
c. Launch a public awareness campaign (in partnership with the Forest Preserves/Extension and local media) educating residents and business owners about the importance of topsoil and practical actions they can take.
d. Explore grants and sponsorships to fund materials, educational signage, and incentives (tree giveaways, rain barrel raffles) to encourage participation.
e. Involve youth (e.g., Scout troops, school clubs) as “Soil Stewards” in ongoing projects, strengthening environmental leadership.
Project Idea 1: Community Health & Safety—West Nile Virus Prevention and Education Initiative
Context:
Lake County has recently reported its first human case of West Nile Virus in 2025, with the affected individual being in their 70s. With concerns about mosquito-borne illnesses rising and older adults among the most vulnerable, there is an immediate need for targeted education, prevention, and resource distribution regarding West Nile Virus.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department (for accurate materials and expertise)
- Lake County Forest Preserves (for hosting awareness events and distributing prevention kits in parks and trailheads)
- Local hardware/garden stores (for donations or discounts on mosquito repellent and prevention supplies)
- Senior centers and retirement communities (targeting high-risk residents)
Next Steps:
1. Contact the Lake County Health Department to discuss existing outreach efforts and offer Rotary’s support for distribution of educational materials and mosquito prevention kits (e.g., repellents, larvicide “dunks,” window screen repair kits).
2. Organize volunteer teams to distribute resources at community events and in neighborhoods with high mosquito populations; offer special “education sessions” at senior centers and community centers.
3. Coordinate with local stores to secure product donations or deep discounts for prevention kits.
4. Promote awareness through joint Rotary–Health Department weekend public demonstrations (e.g., how to eliminate standing water, proper use of repellent, identifying symptoms).
5. Evaluate outcomes and collect feedback from the community to refine messaging and efforts.
Project Idea 2: Youth Engagement & Safety—Teen Chaperone Partnership at Six Flags Great America
Context:
Six Flags Great America in Gurnee has reinstated a chaperone policy requiring attendees aged 15 and under to be accompanied by an adult/guardian on site. This policy follows multiple high-profile safety incidents at amusement parks nationwide. Many local families struggle with transportation and chaperoning due to work or economic pressures, potentially limiting safe recreational opportunities for local youth.
Potential Partners:
- Six Flags Great America Community Relations Team
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County
- Waukegan and Gurnee school districts/PTAs
- Local faith organizations and youth groups
Next Steps:
1. Reach out to Six Flags’ Community Relations team to co-develop a “Rotary Chaperone Day” program, where Rotary volunteers (after background checks/training) serve as vetted chaperones for organized youth groups on select days.
2. Coordinate with local schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, and faith groups to offer free or reduced-cost park entry and transportation for children who otherwise could not participate due to lack of family chaperones.
3. Recruit Rotary members and vetted community volunteers to serve as chaperones; run a brief training on youth engagement and safety protocols.
4. Seek sponsorships (locally and through Rotary International) to cover admission and transportation costs for under-resourced families.
5. Publicize the initiative locally to raise awareness about safe recreation and positive youth engagement, aligning messaging with Rotary’s commitment to youth safety and development.
These two projects directly address pressing current events—health concerns and youth safety/access—while connecting with Rotary’s focus on health, education, and youth.
1. Youth Literacy and School Readiness Initiative – Storytime LIVE Collaboration
Context:
Early childhood literacy is a foundational Rotary area of focus (education), addressing long-term community needs. The “Storytime LIVE at Kiddie Academy of Grayslake” event on July 26 highlights local families’ interest in interactive reading and learning opportunities for young children (ages 2+). Providing ongoing support, books, or volunteer readers could bolster early literacy and readiness for school across Grayslake, Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Kiddie Academy of Grayslake
- Local public libraries (e.g., Grayslake Area Public Library, Waukegan Public Library)
- School districts (e.g., Woodland District 50, Waukegan CUSD 60)
- United Way of Lake County: “Success By 6” initiative
- Local bookstores
Next Steps:
- Connect with Kiddie Academy to discuss a Rotary-sponsored extension of Storytime LIVE (monthly readings, book drives, “reading buddy” volunteers).
- Launch a literacy campaign in partnership with libraries and schools: Set up “Little Free Libraries” or distribute free books at community events (e.g., SummerFest, Farmers Markets).
- Seek book donations from community members or local businesses; plan student participation for National Read Across America Day in March.
- Host a fundraising event (such as a family reading night) to purchase culturally relevant, age-appropriate books.
- Measure impact via participation, books distributed, and feedback from families.
2. Local Food Access/Education and Community Health Project – Farmers Market Partnership
Context:
The recurring “Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina” and the weekly “Summer Grayslake Farmers Market” offer vital access to local produce but there may be barriers for at-risk families. Nutrition and health—a Rotary area of focus—remain priorities in Lake County, where food insecurity and lack of nutrition education affect youth and seniors. Rotary could improve access and provide education while supporting local farmers.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Farmers Market and Waukegan Harbor & Marina staff/volunteers
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local health departments (Lake County Health Department)
- University of Illinois Extension (nutrition education programs)
- Local schools, food pantries (e.g., COOL Ministries in Waukegan)
- Area farmers and vendors
Next Steps:
- Meet with market organizers to coordinate Rotary “Nutrition Education Days”: provide healthy recipe samples, cooking demonstrations, and nutrition info (sourced from U of I Extension experts).
- Organize a “Market Matching” fundraising drive to provide “market bucks” or vouchers for SNAP-eligible families or seniors.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers to help with voucher distribution and meal kit packing.
- Combine with youth outreach by having students assist or present on healthy eating.
- Monitor the impact by tracking voucher usage and collecting participant feedback to adjust programming accordingly.
1. Community Health & Hunger: Partner with Hunger Resource Network’s “Help Feed the Need”
Context:
The upcoming “Help Feed the Need” golf outing on August 6, hosted by the Hunger Resource Network (HRN), highlights ongoing concerns about food insecurity in Lake County. Food insecurity remains a critical issue in Waukegan, Gurnee, and throughout the area, exacerbated by rising food prices and inflation (as noted in recent local news). Rotary’s “Fighting Disease” and “Growing Local Economies” areas of focus align well with supporting local hunger relief efforts.
Potential Partners:
- Hunger Resource Network
- Local food pantries (e.g., Northern Illinois Food Bank, COOL Ministries)
- Local businesses for sponsorship, in-kind donations, or volunteers
- Schools and youth groups for engagement
Next Steps:
- Contact Alan Blitz at HRN to discuss becoming an event sponsor or organizing a Rotary team for the golf outing.
- Mobilize Rotary members and local business partners to collect non-perishable food/monetary donations leading up to the event.
- Consider launching a parallel “Feed the Need Week” service campaign, collecting food and promoting drive participation through schools and faith organizations.
- Promote the event through Rotary’s channels to increase awareness and engagement, potentially advocating for matching funds or local grants.
2. Environment & Community Health: “Clean Air & Healthy Lungs” Initiative
Context:
With recent air quality alerts triggered by Canadian wildfire smoke—and with heat, pollution, and air quality worsening each summer—community health is at risk, particularly for children, seniors, and vulnerable residents. There is an opportunity to both educate the public and to provide direct support related to clean air, which aligns with Rotary’s “Supporting the Environment” and “Disease Prevention” priorities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local schools, especially in Waukegan and Gurnee
- Environmental organizations (e.g., Illinois Environmental Council, local Sierra Club)
- Healthcare providers or clinics
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Lake County Health Department for partnership on a local “Clean Air” awareness and protective measures campaign.
- Work with schools to distribute age-appropriate educational materials about air quality dangers and healthy behaviors.
- Organize fundraising to purchase and distribute HEPA air purifiers and/or N95 masks for families in need, schools, and senior homes.
- Plan a late-summer or fall community event (“Breathe Easy Day”) offering free asthma screenings, air quality education, and distribution of resources, leveraging Rotary volunteers and inviting local health and environmental experts.
- Advocate for and/or participate in tree-planting projects, which offer longer-term environmental health benefits.
Both project ideas are timely, relevant to Lake County’s current needs, and foster meaningful collaboration across key Rotary focus areas.
1. Youth Violence Prevention & Community Engagement Program
Context:
Recent news reported the death of a 19-year-old in a North Chicago shooting. Lake and northern Cook counties, including Waukegan and Gurnee, have seen a troubling rise in youth violence and crime, as evidenced by both violent incidents and youth-ending lives prematurely.
Potential Partners:
- North Chicago and Waukegan Police Departments (community outreach divisions)
- Youth & Family Counseling Service of Lake County
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee District 56)
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
- Faith-based organizations and existing anti-violence coalitions
Next Steps:
- Convene a task force with representatives from the above organizations.
- Survey and listen to youth in local schools and community centers about their needs, stressors, and interests.
- Develop a Rotary Youth Leadership & Empowerment Day, offering conflict resolution workshops, mentoring sign-ups, and safe-space recreation events.
- Launch a fundraiser (e.g., a “Walk for Peace” or basketball tournament) to support sustained youth programs, scholarships for at-risk youth, and counseling services.
- Seek grant funds from Rotary International under “Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution” or “Community Economic Development.”
2. Free Water Safety Clinics in Partnership with Local Law Enforcement and Park Districts
Context:
The Lake County Sheriff's Marine Unit recently rescued a teen struggling in the water on the Chain O'Lakes, drawing attention to recurring water safety hazards, especially for youth and new boaters during the busy summer season. Drownings and near-drownings remain a concern in the region, with multiple cases annually.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit
- Waukegan and Gurnee Park Districts (aquatic facilities)
- SwimSafe/Red Cross certified instructors
- Local YMCAs (e.g., Waukegan Family YMCA)
- School districts within Lake County
Next Steps:
- Schedule meetings with the Sheriff’s Marine Unit and Park Districts to propose collaboration on a public safety initiative.
- Identify funding needs for equipment, instructor honoraria, and promotional materials.
- Organize a series of free community Water Safety Days, including “Learn to Swim,” life jacket fittings, demos on safe boating, and water emergency response sessions for families.
- Encourage student and Interact/Rotaract member volunteers to serve as helpers, potentially offering service hours as incentive.
- Publicize events via local media, school newsletters, and faith/community centers, focusing outreach in neighborhoods with limited access to swim lessons.
- Secure Rotary branding and apply for Rotary Foundation community grant support under “Disease Prevention and Treatment” and “Saving Mothers & Children” (by preventing avoidable tragedies).
Both initiatives directly respond to urgent local concerns while aligning with Rotary’s mission to build safer, healthier, and more engaged communities.