1. Youth Mental Health & Support Initiative
Context:
The death of an 18-year-old in Illinois foster care, with lingering questions surrounding the care and oversight that youth in the foster system receive, has spotlighted gaps in mental health services and transitional support for vulnerable youth — an issue highly relevant to Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee. The investigation’s public profile underlines both community concern and the timeliness for action, especially in supporting foster youth as they approach adulthood.
Potential Partners:
- Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) – Lake County region
- Lake County Youth Action Team
- Waukegan Public Schools and High School Counselors
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (for wraparound support)
- Lake County Health Department (Behavioral Health Division)
- CASA Lake County (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children)
Next Steps:
- Schedule a roundtable with representatives from the above partners to identify immediate and long-term needs for foster and at-risk youth, focusing on gaps in mental health and life skills support.
- Organize a "Youth Empowerment Day": a service event inviting foster and vulnerable youth for resource navigation, mentorship, mental health workshops, and self-advocacy skills. Engage volunteers from Rotary, school counselors, and mental health professionals.
- Fundraise to support ongoing mental health and life skills programs (workshops, counseling sessions, scholarships for college/certification fees). Grant opportunities may also be explored via Rotary International.
- Launch a mentor program that recruits and trains Rotarians and community volunteers to serve as consistent adult role models for teens in transition, in partnership with CASA Lake County.
2. Community Auto Theft Prevention & Public Safety Campaign
Context:
The recent Illinois State Police campaign in which 225 stolen vehicles were recovered (with several firearms seized) indicates a surge in vehicle theft and broader safety concerns. This issue likely resonates with residents in Waukegan, Gurnee, and across Lake County, sparking a need for community-level response, safety awareness, and youth diversion programs addressing both the root causes and the prevention of crime.
Potential Partners:
- Local Police Departments (Waukegan, Gurnee, Lake County Sheriff)
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) – Lake County
- Warren-Newport Public Library and other civic centers (for education venues)
- Local car dealerships and auto repair shops
- Waukegan Township Youth Programs
Next Steps:
- Co-host an "Auto Safety Fair" with law enforcement, offering free or discounted VIN etching, steering wheel locks, and safety presentations on theft prevention, especially tailored for high-risk neighborhoods.
- Launch a youth engagement component: Sponsor creative contests for students (art/poster, short video, public service announcement) to encourage peers and families to practice vehicle safety. Winner presentations at Rotary or community meetings can build positivity and awareness.
- Seek in-kind sponsorships from local auto businesses for preventive device giveaways.
- Raise funds through a community "Car Show for a Cause," engaging car enthusiasts and providing information booths linked to youth job training and diversion programs in partnership with Waukegan Township Youth Programs.
- Establish follow-up tracking: work with local police departments to measure before/after impact in community engagement and reported vehicle thefts.
Both initiatives align with Rotary’s areas of focus: youth support, mental health, community safety, and education, each offering immediate community benefit and potential for sustainable impact.
1. Youth & Literacy Support through Waukegan Public Library’s Renovated Youth & Teen Services Department
Context:
The Waukegan Public Library has just unveiled its newly renovated Youth & Teen Services Department, aimed at fostering imagination, collaboration, and a lifelong love of learning for local youth. This facility is well-positioned to become a hub for after-school enrichment, literacy support, and educational programming—key Rotary areas of focus.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library (especially Youth Services Director, if available)
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, local private schools)
- Local literacy nonprofits (e.g., Reading Power, United Way)
- High school volunteer clubs and college student tutors
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Waukegan Public Library’s Youth Services leadership to explore volunteer-based after-school tutoring or reading buddy programs, using Rotarians and community volunteers.
- Partner with schools to identify students who could benefit most, and coordinate transportation or logistics if needed for equitable participation.
- Plan a fundraising campaign (family fun run, trivia night, book drives) to provide books, educational materials, and technology to help under-resourced families and children.
- Organize "Rotary Reading Days" and STEM club projects at the library to increase engagement and create connections between youth and community mentors.
2. Supporting Military and Veteran Families at New North Chicago Fisher House
Context:
A new Fisher House recently opened in North Chicago, providing much-needed temporary accommodation for military and veteran families while loved ones receive treatment at local medical centers. The Fisher House mission aligns with Rotary’s focus on community health and supporting vulnerable populations. This also connects strongly with honoring military service and assisting those in transition or crisis.
Potential Partners:
- Fisher House Foundation (local house director/manager)
- Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center
- Local veterans’ organizations (VFW, American Legion)
- Local businesses interested in supporting veterans (restaurants, service providers)
Next Steps:
- Contact the North Chicago Fisher House manager to identify their immediate needs (welcome kits, meal supplies, transportation vouchers, etc.).
- Organize a Rotary Day of Service: prepare meals or host family activity nights for Fisher House residents.
- Launch an ongoing “Adopt a Room” or “Welcome Home” project—fundraise to stock guest rooms with new linens, toiletries, games, and comfort items.
- Partner with local restaurants and caterers to sponsor regular meal deliveries for families staying at the Fisher House.
- Leverage media and Rotary channels to raise awareness and community support for the Fisher House and military families in Lake County.
1. Youth Literacy & Academic Excellence Initiative: Spelling Bee Sponsorship and Enrichment
Context:
Lake County seventh grader Visharad Sathish recently won the marathon Lake County Regional Spelling Bee and is headed to Washington, D.C. for the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee. The event drew participation from 73 schools and hundreds of students. This points to an engaged and high-achieving student population, but also highlights the need for ongoing investments in literacy, academic support, and access to enrichment opportunities for youth across Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (which organizes the bee)
- Waukegan Public Library (recently expanded its youth services)
- Local PTAs/PTOs
- Literacy Volunteers of Lake County
Rotary Service/Fundraising Opportunity:
Organize a Rotary-backed "Youth Literacy & Academic Excellence Fund," to award travel stipends, book grants, and academic enrichment scholarships to spelling bee participants and other students excelling in regional competitions. The fund could also support annual literacy nights featuring former bee champions (such as Visharad Sathish) as guest speakers and reading mentors.
Next Steps:
- Connect with the Lake County Regional Office of Education and Waukegan Public Library to discuss collaboration.
- Recruit local educators and spelling bee alumni to design supportive enrichment activities.
- Launch a fundraising campaign targeting local businesses and community members (potentially matching contributions).
- Distribute grants at a publicized event highlighting Rotary’s commitment to youth education.
2. Safe Community Business Support Project: Security Workshops and Micro-Grants
Context:
Recent reports indicate a string of burglaries impacting Gurnee businesses, raising community concerns over safety and the economic impact on local enterprises. Business safety is crucial for local economic health and the well-being of all residents.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department (for expertise in prevention, security assessments)
- Gurnee Chamber of Commerce
- Lake County Partners (regional economic development organization)
- Local insurance agencies
Rotary Service/Fundraising Opportunity:
Develop and host "Safe Community Business Days" offering free security workshops to small business owners, featuring presentations from local law enforcement and loss prevention experts. Combine this with the launch of Rotary-funded micro-grants for small businesses to upgrade security measures (cameras, alarm systems, better locks).
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with the Gurnee Police Department and Chamber of Commerce to schedule events.
- Secure sponsorship or matching funds to create the micro-grant pool.
- Promote the workshops to local businesses; collect applications for micro-grant eligibility.
- Recognize and publicize the positive impact on business safety and community trust, reinforcing Rotary’s role as a source of practical support.
1. Youth Mental Health & Support Initiative
Context:
Recent news from Grayslake reports a community mourning the tragic death of a local teenager, including mention of a fatal incident at a dental office. Such losses can have profound effects on local students, youth, and their families, highlighting a growing need for mental health awareness, suicide prevention, grief resources, and youth support systems. The continued impact of isolation, academic pressure, and post-pandemic stress adds urgency for intervention and outreach.
Potential Partners: - Local schools (Grayslake Community High School District 127, Gurnee District 56, Waukegan Public Schools) - Youth counseling centers (e.g., Lake County Health Department Behavioral Health, Youth & Family Counseling in Libertyville) - Non-profits such as NAMI Lake County, Erika’s Lighthouse, and Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force - Faith communities and youth groups - Local businesses willing to sponsor or host awareness events
Next Steps: - Convene an initial meeting with school social workers and counselors to identify immediate needs and possible program gaps. - Reach out to the Lake County Health Department Behavioral Health team and NAMI Lake County about co-facilitating educational seminars for parents and students. - Organize a fundraising event—such as an art show (partnering with Blue Moon Gallery or the Festival of the Arts)—with proceeds supporting youth mental health programming or scholarships for mental health services. - Develop volunteer opportunities for Rotary members to support grief workshops, peer mentoring groups, or classroom presentations. - Publicize these activities through Patch, social media, and school bulletins for maximum impact.
2. Food Insecurity Relief Drive & Community Pantry Support
Context:
Recent Grayslake news notes a significant spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries over the past year, reflecting a regional trend likely affecting Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County. With inflation and economic instability, many families continue to struggle putting nutritious food on the table. This directly aligns with Rotary's focus area of "community health" and addressing basic human needs.
Potential Partners: - Northern Illinois Food Bank Lake County Center (Park City, near Waukegan) - COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan) - Avon Township and Warren Township Food Pantries (serving Grayslake and Gurnee) - Local grocery stores and businesses (Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s, Target) - School districts for distributing food packages to students in need
Next Steps: - Set up planning calls with local pantry managers and Northern Illinois Food Bank to assess immediate needs (e.g., shortages in specific items, volunteer gaps, transportation needs). - Organize a “Rotary Community Food Drive” at public events, such as the 44th Annual Festival of the Arts or pet-friendly movie nights. - Launch a fundraising campaign (e.g., “Adopt-a-Family” weekend or a virtual drive using Givebutter or GoFundMe) to allow community members to sponsor meals or bags for families and seniors. - Mobilize Rotary volunteers to assist with food sorting, distribution, and delivery—focusing on underserved neighborhoods in Waukegan and Gurnee. - Collaborate with schools and social workers to discreetly identify students and families who may benefit from pantry programs, helping reduce stigma and improve access.
By implementing these projects, the Rotary can directly address pressing youth mental health and food security needs, working in concert with local partners for maximum community benefit.
1. Community Health: Healthy Families Initiative at Gurnee Ribfest (August 9, 2025)
Context:
The Gurnee Exchange Club Ribfest at Viking Park is a well-attended annual event, drawing families from across Gurnee and neighboring communities. Many Lake County residents experience barriers to preventive health care, nutrition education, and mental wellness resources. Aligning Rotary’s community health and disease prevention focus with a popular public gathering offers high-visibility impact. Recent community concerns have centered on healthy living, substance abuse prevention, and access to basic health screens.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Exchange Club (event host)
- Lake County Health Department
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Rosalind Franklin University (medical/nursing students)
- Advocate Condell Medical Center
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Gurnee Exchange Club to secure booth space and coordinate programming.
- Partner with health organizations to offer on-site services: blood pressure checks, nutrition guidance, information on local mental health resources, and free children’s vision screenings.
- Organize a “Family Wellness Passport” encouraging kids and parents to visit booths for healthy activity stamps and a raffle prize.
- Incorporate fun, interactive components, such as chef demos, fitness mini-challenges, or a “sugar shock” education display.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers, secure educational handouts, and prepare a communication plan to market the Rotary presence beforehand.
2. Education & Youth: Literacy Pop-Up at Waukegan Waterfront Market (August 22 & September 26, 2025)
Context:
Waukegan has ongoing needs related to early literacy, educational enrichment, and summer learning loss prevention, particularly among lower-income families. The Waterfront Market at the Waukegan Harbor draws diverse crowds and provides a relaxed setting to engage families. Rotary’s support for education and youth development—especially literacy—can make a direct difference during these community market events.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library (for book donations and reading resources)
- United Way of Lake County (literacy initiatives)
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
- Local authors and artists
- Waukegan Park District
Next Steps:
- Reserve booth space at both Waterfront Market dates through event organizers.
- Gather gently used and new children’s books for distribution.
- Organize volunteers for interactive story hours, bookmark-making, and “reading buddy” sessions.
- Collaborate with library staff on literacy assessments or library card sign-up.
- Design fun, youth-oriented activities that showcase Rotary’s engagement and highlight the importance of reading for all ages.
- Track participation and follow up with families interested in ongoing literacy support or school-year tutoring.
These service initiatives use high-visibility community events to advance Rotary goals in health, education, and youth support—meeting immediate needs while strengthening local partnerships and visibility.
1. Community Response to Air Quality & Heatwave Events (Health, Environment)
Context:
Recent news reports highlight repeated concerns in Lake County, including Lake Forest and Waukegan, about hazardous air quality alerts and dangerous heatwaves. These environmental challenges pose severe health risks, especially for vulnerable populations like seniors, children, and underserved residents. Health officials have issued Air Pollution Action Days, and local authorities have opened cooling centers, but gaps remain in outreach, resources, and public education.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local Fire Departments (for cooling center operations)
- NorthShore University HealthSystem (community outreach)
- Local libraries and community centers (distribution points)
- Environmental groups (e.g., Sierra Club Lake County, local conservation organizations)
Next Steps:
- Organize targeted distribution of air quality masks, water bottles, and information about cooling centers in English and Spanish at libraries, community hubs, and outdoor events.
- Sponsor and staff an “Environment & Health Fair” at a central location (e.g., Waukegan Public Library) to provide free air quality monitors, heat safety kits (cooling towels, water, fans), and educational workshops with health professionals.
- Coordinate a public information campaign (flyers, social media, local news, and Rotary clubs’ networks) to raise awareness of risks, health resources, and what to do during pollution or heat alerts.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers to help with kit assembly, fair logistics, and translation services.
- Seek Rotary Foundation or community grants to fund supplies and educational materials.
- Measure impact by tracking distribution numbers and partnering with health officials for any observed reduction in related emergency incidents.
2. Domestic Violence Awareness & Survivor Support Initiative (Peacebuilding, Community Health, Youth)
Context:
Lake Forest police recently responded to a severe domestic violence incident, highlighting ongoing issues of domestic violence and community safety in Lake County. While some resources exist, there remains a critical need to expand support, particularly for awareness, prevention, and direct survivor assistance (including children affected by violence).
Potential Partners:
- A Safe Place (Lake County’s leading domestic violence shelter and support provider)
- Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office – Victim Assistance
- Local schools & youth organizations (for youth prevention programs)
- Police Community Affairs & local mental health professionals
- Faith-based organizations
Next Steps:
- Coordinate a Rotary-led community fundraising breakfast or evening event, with proceeds to benefit A Safe Place’s emergency shelter and children’s counseling programs.
- Develop and host educational workshops for parents, youth, and educators, in partnership with A Safe Place, focused on recognizing warning signs, bystander intervention, and available resources.
- Launch an “Empowerment Packs” project to assemble and distribute care kits (including hygiene supplies, journals, children’s books, and resource info) to survivors entering shelters.
- Work with schools to provide age-appropriate classroom presentations on healthy relationships and violence prevention (potentially utilizing Rotary’s youth networks).
- Seek local business sponsorships and utilize Rotary’s platform to amplify awareness during October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
- Evaluate the program by collecting participant feedback, tracking funds raised, and reporting numbers of kits/workshops delivered.
Both initiatives tie directly to Rotary’s areas of focus—environment, health, peace, and youth—and address timely, community-specific needs as highlighted in the latest Lake County news.
1. Community Youth Water Safety Initiative in Partnership with Local Agencies
Context:
A recent tragic incident involved the drowning of a 14-year-old boy at Illinois Beach State Park in Lake County. This indicates a pressing need for increased youth education and community resources on water safety, especially with high summertime attendance at Lake Michigan beaches and local parks.
Rotary Area of Focus:
- Community health
- Youth
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local Fire Departments (e.g., Gurnee Fire Department, Waukegan Fire Department)
- Illinois Beach State Park Rangers
- YMCAs (Waukegan, Gurnee locations)
- American Red Cross (Chicago & Northern IL Region)
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with local park rangers and fire/rescue departments to identify peak needs and current resources.
- Design and fund a series of free water safety clinics for youth and families, focusing on swimming basics, water rescue techniques, and safe conduct near water.
- Distribute printed and digital materials in both English and Spanish (and other prevalent community languages) in partnership with local schools and libraries.
- Explore grant opportunities and partner with businesses (like swim schools or outdoor retailers) for sponsorship and safety equipment (life jackets, signage).
- Coordinate a late summer or early fall “Water Safety Day” event at Illinois Beach State Park, inviting community leaders, partners, media, and families.
2. Business Safety & Community Resilience Workshop Series
Context:
A surge of early-morning burglaries recently targeted at least 15 businesses in Gurnee, with law enforcement underscoring the need for coordination between police, local government, and the business community. Small businesses are integral to Gurnee and Waukegan’s local economy and vitality, and owners are seeking support in crime prevention and resilience strategies.
Rotary Area of Focus:
- Economic and community development
- Community health and safety
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department and Waukegan Police Department
- Gurnee and Waukegan Chambers of Commerce
- Local insurance agencies (e.g., State Farm, Allstate)
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office
- Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) at College of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Initiate a roundtable meeting (virtual or in-person) with police representatives and chamber leaders to assess critical security gaps and training needs among small business owners.
- Develop and host a workshop series covering:
- Crime prevention best practices (e.g., locks, lighting, surveillance)
- Steps for working with law enforcement
- Insurance coverage and claims processes
- Employee safety and response protocols
- Leverage Rotary volunteers to help businesses assess vulnerabilities and provide “safety check” walkthroughs.
- Create and distribute security starter kits (window decals, lights, quick-reference guides) to businesses in partnership with sponsors.
- Follow up with a community forum to discuss outcomes and consider a “neighborhood watch” extension for business corridors, helping foster ongoing collaboration among law enforcement, business owners, and residents.