Certainly! Based on recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that align with Rotary’s areas of focus, with relevant context, suggested partners, and clear next steps:
1. Hiroshima Peace Literacy Project (Rotary Focus: Education, Peacebuilding & Conflict Prevention)
Context:
On August 10, 2025, the Daily Herald opinion marked the 80th anniversary of Hiroshima and highlighted the legacy of John Hersey—Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "Hiroshima," after whom a local school is named. This anniversary is a poignant reminder of the importance of peace education and the need for youth to understand the humanitarian cost of conflict.
Potential Partners:
- John Hersey High School (and other local schools)
- Local libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee)
- Peace-focused nonprofits (e.g., PeaceWorks, Center for Nonviolence)
- City of Gurnee, Waukegan School District 60
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with John Hersey High School and area libraries to organize a multi-day educational series on peace and conflict prevention, including book readings, student essay contests, and guest lectures.
- Seek guest speakers such as local historians, Hiroshima survivors or their descendants, and peace educators.
- Apply for a Rotary District Grant to fund event materials and prizes.
- Publicize the event in partnership with local media outlets and via school communications.
- Explore opportunities for ongoing peace literacy curriculum development in schools.
2. Support for Food Security Amid Grocery Tax Debate (Rotary Focus: Community Health & Economic Development)
Context:
Editorials and letters reference community concern about a proposed 1% grocery tax in Mount Prospect, illustrating anxiety over food affordability and economic hardship. Lake County has pockets of food insecurity, and even minor grocery taxes can impact vulnerable residents, including those in Gurnee and Waukegan.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (serves Lake County)
- Local pantries (Waukegan Food Pantry, COOL Ministries)
- Township government offices (Warren Township, Waukegan Township)
- Local grocers and businesses
Next Steps:
- Launch a “Hunger Relief Now” fundraising campaign, with donations supporting local food banks and pantries ahead of (and in response to) any changes in grocery pricing.
- Organize Rotary volunteer drives at local food pantries, coordinating with township officials to identify highest-need neighborhoods.
- Host educational sessions for residents on accessing food resources and understanding the grocery tax’s impact.
- Approach grocery stores (Jewel-Osco, Aldi, etc.) for in-kind donations and partnership on food drives.
- Work with local governments to advocate for policies that mitigate negative effects for the most vulnerable.
Both projects directly address current community needs while advancing Rotary’s core areas of focus and engaging local partners for greater impact.
Based on the recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, there are clear community needs in public health and youth education. Here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that align with Rotary’s areas of focus, including context, potential partners, and next steps:
1. Community Health Initiative: West Nile Virus Prevention and Education
Context:
The recent report about stepped-up spraying in Lake County to combat West Nile virus underscores a pressing community health concern. Health departments are urging all residents to take precautions. Vulnerable populations—particularly the elderly, children, and those without access to preventative resources—may need additional support and education about mosquito-borne illnesses and available protections.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department (key leadership: Dr. Sana Ahmed, Medical Epidemiologist) - Local municipalities (Waukegan, Gurnee, Zion, Beach Park) - Neighborhood associations and community centers
Next Steps: - Convene a planning meeting with the Lake County Health Department to understand gaps in community outreach and resource distribution. - Establish a "Mosquito Safety Kit" distribution campaign at local events, schools, and retirement communities. Kits could include repellent, informational flyers in multiple languages, and subsidized or free window/door screens. - Collaborate on educational workshops led by local health experts at parks, fairs, or community centers, focusing on symptom awareness and home prevention (eliminating standing water, etc.). - Launch a fundraising or donation drive to support the purchase and distribution of protective supplies, with Rotary volunteers leading the effort.
2. Youth Education and Inspiration: Moonshot STEM Day Honoring James Lovell
Context:
The community is marking the passing of James Lovell, the famed Apollo 13 astronaut and longtime Lake County resident. His legacy offers a unique opportunity to inspire youth in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), aligned with Rotary’s education and youth development focus.
Potential Partners: - Adler Planetarium (programs and exhibits honoring Lovell) - Waukegan and Gurnee public schools (e.g., Waukegan High School, Woodland District 50) - Area libraries and youth centers - Family of James Lovell or local NASA/Astronaut alumni associations
Next Steps: - Organize a “Moonshot STEM Day” at a local community center or school, featuring hands-on science activities, astronaut guest speakers (including virtual), and exhibits about space exploration. - Partner with the Adler Planetarium for mobile exhibits or speaker events in Lake County schools. - Offer scholarships or fund field trips for underprivileged students to visit the Mission Moon exhibit. - Develop a mentorship program connecting STEM professionals with local middle and high school students, using Lovell’s story as an inspirational anchor. - Coordinate a fundraising gala or event, possibly in partnership with Lovell’s family or legacy foundation, to fund STEM enrichment activities.
Both projects capitalize on urgent and high-interest community needs, connect Rotary to new and existing partners, and have clear, actionable next steps.
1. Youth Literacy and Academic Excellence Initiative
Context:
Lake County seventh grader Visharad Sathish’s achievement in winning a marathon spelling bee and heading to the Scripps National Spelling Bee highlights both the talents and the academic ambitions of youth in the Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County area. However, only a fraction of students have access to the resources, support, or enrichment opportunities needed to excel in literacy and spelling at this level. Rotary’s focus on education and literacy directly aligns with supporting youth academic advancement, especially for underserved areas in Waukegan.
Potential Partners:
- Local Schools: Lake County Regional Office of Education, Woodland Middle School (Gurnee), Waukegan Public Schools
- Libraries: Warren-Newport Public Library (Gurnee), Waukegan Public Library
- Community Groups: United Way of Lake County, local parent-teacher organizations
- Media: Lake County News-Sun (for event promotion)
Next Steps:
A. Organize a fundraising and volunteer campaign to provide spelling and literacy enrichment—after-school programs, spelling clubs, or summer literacy camps—with a special focus on schools in underserved areas.
B. Coordinate with school districts and libraries to recruit volunteers and promote reading challenges, spelling bees, or writing workshops, inviting Visharad Sathish for motivational talks.
C. Apply for Rotary grants targeting literacy and education; collaborate with local businesses for sponsorship and prize donations.
D. Set annual goals for increasing participation especially among at-risk or under-resourced students; assess progress and spotlight participant achievements through Rotary events or local press.
2. Community Health and Mosquito-Borne Disease Prevention Campaign
Context:
Lake County is increasing efforts to combat the West Nile virus following the recent news of intensified spraying and calls for heightened resident precautions. The seasonal risk of West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses is a crucial public health concern for families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and neighboring communities, especially where residents may lack easy access to health education and protective resources.
Potential Partners:
- Government Agencies: Lake County Health Department, Village of Gurnee, City of Waukegan
- Healthcare Providers: Vista Health System (Waukegan), local clinics and pharmacies
- Environmental Organizations: Lake County Forest Preserves
- Retailers/Garden Centers: For sourcing supplies such as repellent, nets, and educational materials
Next Steps:
A. Launch a public awareness and resource drive distributing free or subsidized mosquito repellent, window/door screens, and educational pamphlets on West Nile virus prevention at community centers, parks, and local events in May–September.
B. Partner with health department officials for educational workshops—bilingual if possible—on reducing mosquito habitats, recognizing symptoms, and steps for prevention.
C. Organize volunteer days for neighborhood clean-ups focused on eliminating standing water and teaching residents how to identify and report potential mosquito breeding spots.
D. Seek Rotary matching grants and local sponsorships to maximize the reach of the campaign, and share results with the community and health officials to measure outcomes.
Both initiatives align directly with Rotary’s core values in education, youth leadership, disease prevention, and community well-being while responding to current events and demonstrated needs in Lake County.
1. Community Health & Safety: Pediatric Dental Care Education and Support
Context:
The recent death of Sophia Farmer, a teen from Spring Grove, following a dental visit at a Grayslake clinic (reported July 24), has brought community attention to pediatric dental safety, emergency preparedness, and parent awareness regarding risks of routine dental procedures. This tragedy, currently under investigation, has heightened local concerns about child health, provider communication, and parental education on consent and after-care.
Potential Partners:
- Sophia's family and close friends (for guidance and permission if honoring her memory)
- Local dental clinics (e.g., North Suburban Dental Care, Grayslake Dental Care)
- Lake County Health Department
- School districts (CCSD 46, Warren Township High School)
- Pediatricians and school nurses
- Advocacy organizations for child health and safety (Safe Kids Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Convene an open forum or listening session with community members, school staff, and healthcare providers to collect questions, concerns, and suggestions.
- Partner with local dental professionals and school nurses to develop and distribute a bilingual (English/Spanish) education packet outlining questions for parents to ask before procedures, red-flag symptoms post-procedure, and emergency contacts.
- Organize an annual Dental Health and Safety Fair, offering free dental screenings, parent/child workshops, and CPR/first-aid mini-classes.
- Fundraise for "Sophia's Fund" to supply scholarships for youth CPR/AED training or subsidize dental care for low-income families.
2. Environment & Community: Lake County Goose Control and Clean Parks Campaign
Context:
Numerous neighborhoods in Lake County—especially in Gurnee, Grayslake, and Waukegan—are struggling with overpopulation of Canada geese, resulting in unsanitary park conditions and negative impacts on recreation and the environment. Recent coverage ("It’s ‘One Big Goose Latrine’ In Some Neighborhoods") highlights resident frustration and the need for humane, community-based solutions that promote environmental stewardship.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves District
- Local park districts (Gurnee Park District, Grayslake Park District, Waukegan Park District)
- Audubon Society Lake-Cook Chapter
- Village officials, homeowners’ associations, neighborhood watch groups
- Schools for youth volunteer engagement
Next Steps:
- Organize a “Clean Parks, Healthy Lakes” service day, mobilizing Rotary members, students, and residents to clean local parks, install educational signage, and distribute safe deterrents (such as decoy predator kits).
- Work with Lake County Forest Preserves and local wildlife experts to host workshops on humane goose population management (egg addling, habitat modification, landscape buffers).
- Launch a microgrant program for neighborhoods and HOAs to implement sustainable goose control measures, funded by a Rotary-sponsored “Walk for Clean Parks” event.
- Develop youth environmental leadership activities (Goose Watchers), engaging students in problem-solving, park stewardship, and public education campaigns.
Project 1: Rotary Community Health & Wellness Fair at Hero Park Grand Opening
Context:
The Hero Park Grand Opening in Round Lake Beach (August 16) presents a major opportunity for engaging residents around health, wellness, and family activities. With the new park as a gathering point, and with nearby events supporting families and youth (such as the YMCA’s Back to School Bash in Lindenhurst), there’s clear momentum towards community wellness and education. Rotary’s areas of focus, like disease prevention, maternal/child health, and supporting education, all align well.
Potential Partners:
- Village of Round Lake Beach (Hero Park staff and park district)
- Advocate Condell Medical Center or local clinics (wellness screenings)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local fitness instructors or YMCA
- Regional food pantries or community gardens
Next Steps:
1. Contact the Round Lake Area Park District and Hero Park event organizers to offer Rotary’s involvement and reserve booth or activity space.
2. Coordinate with health providers to offer free health screenings (e.g., blood pressure, vision), flu shots, and information on preventive care.
3. Partner with local organizations for activities promoting healthy living—mini-fitness classes, healthy snack demos, child wellness games, etc.
4. Assemble a Rotary volunteer team to host the booth, share Rotary’s mission, and distribute resource guides.
5. Use the fair to collect feedback from residents about unmet health, food security, or youth support needs, shaping future projects.
Project 2: Literacy & School Supply Drive at Hastings Lake YMCA “Back to School Bash”
Context:
The YMCA’s free Family Back to School Bash in Lindenhurst (August 16) aligns perfectly with Rotary’s commitment to education and supporting youth. Economic pressures remain high for many Lake County families, especially in Waukegan and Gurnee, and a school supply and literacy drive can address immediate needs while connecting families with longer-term resources.
Potential Partners:
- Hastings Lake YMCA
- Local school districts (e.g., Woodland CCSD 50, Gurnee; Waukegan CUSD 60)
- Lake County libraries
- Lake County United Way
- Local book stores or businesses (sponsorships, supply donations)
Next Steps:
1. Collaborate with the YMCA and confirm Rotary presence at the Back to School Bash.
2. Organize a school supply and children’s book collection drive (soliciting donations from Rotary members and partner businesses).
3. Set up an engaging booth at the event to distribute kits including backpacks, supplies, and age-appropriate books. Invite library staff for onsite library card signup and reading program promotion.
4. Structure interactive literacy activities or storytimes during the event (possibly recruiting local educators or authors).
5. Follow up with participating families after the event to offer continued support through Rotary literacy programs, mentoring, or partnerships with local schools.
Both of these opportunities respond directly to current events, key community needs, and leverage Rotary’s strengths in service and partnership.
1. Community Health & Environment: Air Quality Education and Clean Air Initiative
Context:
A recent Air Pollution Action Day was declared in Lake Forest due to hazardous air quality, highlighting a growing concern about public health and environmental well-being in Lake County. Poor air quality impacts vulnerable populations, including children and those with conditions like asthma or cardiovascular issues. Many residents may lack knowledge or resources to monitor air pollution or take protective actions. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and environmental sustainability.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local schools (e.g., Lake Forest and Lake Bluff School Districts)
- Environmental groups such as Lake County Forest Preserves or Illinois Environmental Council
- Local businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire could serve as a sponsor or help distribute informational materials)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the health department for current air quality data, concerns, and existing initiatives.
- Organize a community education event on air pollution impacts, preventive steps (like using air filters, avoiding outdoor activity at peak times), and personal monitoring (using free/low-cost air quality apps). Invite medical professionals and environmental experts as speakers.
- Develop or expand a program to provide air purifiers or N95 masks to at-risk families—potentially as a Rotary fundraiser.
- Consider a "plant-a-tree" campaign (carbon sink initiative) at local schools or parks to engage youth, improve air, and build environmental stewardship.
- Collaborate with local media and businesses—such as Waukegan Tire—for promotion, sponsorship, and program visibility.
2. Youth & Education: Back-to-School Readiness and Support
Context:
The new 2025-26 school calendar has been announced for Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, and families are preparing for the return to school. Many children, especially in nearby Waukegan, face challenges accessing school supplies, healthy meals, and social-emotional support. This is an acute need as the economic aftermath of COVID-19 continues to impact vulnerable families. Rotary’s commitment to education and youth development dovetails with these community requirements.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Waukegan)
- United Way of Lake County or other local nonprofits (e.g., Mothers Trust Foundation)
- Local businesses and larger retailers (potential in-kind donations of school supplies)
- Community volunteers (e.g., Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts troops, church groups)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with school district social workers to identify unmet needs (backpacks, supplies, lunch programs, tutoring).
- Launch a “Backpacks for Success” fundraising and in-kind drive for essential supplies. Promote widely and set up visible collection points in partnership with local businesses.
- Organize a back-to-school fair offering free supplies, haircuts, health screenings, and fun youth activities to reduce stigma and ensure every family feels welcome.
- Recruit volunteers for ongoing school-year mentoring or tutoring programs, targeting at-risk students in Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Secure Rotary club matching funds or district grants to amplify local giving.
These two projects respond directly to current news and urgent needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County communities, while amplifying Rotary’s proven strengths in health, environment, education, and youth service.
1. Support for Safe and Licensed Childcare – “Daycare Safety Initiative”
Context:
Recent news from North Chicago (Lake County) highlights a serious issue: two children were found at an unlicensed home daycare during a drug probe, with DCFS now investigating whether an unlicensed daycare was being operated out of a private home. This incident underscores growing concerns about child safety, particularly in lower-income or underserved communities where unlicensed care is more prevalent.
Potential Partners:
- Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)
- Local police and fire departments
- Lake County Health Department
- YWCA of Lake County or United Way
- Local early childhood centers and parent-teacher groups
Next Steps:
- Organize a series of educational workshops or town halls in Waukegan, North Chicago, Gurnee, and nearby towns to inform parents about how to identify safe, licensed childcare options and the risks of unlicensed care.
- Work with DCFS and local organizations to distribute informational materials (in English and Spanish) at libraries, schools, and community centers.
- Raise funds (through a Rotary gala, fun run, or online campaign) to provide scholarships or subsidies for families seeking licensed childcare, or to help local unlicensed caregivers become licensed, including covering background check or safety training costs.
- Advocate for routine safety screenings and bolster awareness of existing resources that support both families and licensed providers.
- Appoint a Rotary “Daycare Safety Chair” to coordinate with DCFS and track impact.
Rotary Area of Focus: Child and maternal health, supporting education, community safety
2. Mental Health & Suicide Prevention for Youth and Young Adults – “Great Lakes Wellness Project”
Context:
The tragic death of Kayshawn Wilkerson, a Navy recruit at Great Lakes Naval Station, is a sobering local example of the national crisis in mental health and suicide, particularly among young adults in high-stress environments. This incident calls attention to mental wellness needs not only for military recruits but also for students and young workers in Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (serving Great Lakes Naval Station & veterans)
- Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force
- Lake County Health Department – Behavioral Health Services
- School districts (Waukegan District 60, Gurnee District 56)
- The Josselyn Center, NAMI Lake County
- Military family support organizations
Next Steps:
- Host mental health first aid and suicide prevention training sessions open to the public, targeting both military families and civilians, at community centers and schools in Gurnee and Waukegan.
- Partner with the Lovell Healthcare Center and local schools to create “wellness rooms” – safe, quiet spaces with peer support materials and connections to mental health services.
- Fundraise to provide mini-grants supporting school counselors’ continuing education in trauma-informed care, or to underwrite free counseling sessions for at-risk youth.
- Launch a quarterly speaker series, inviting mental health professionals and those with lived experience to share tools for resilience, stress management, and crisis intervention.
- Coordinate a “Rotary Cares” awareness week with local and base media, distributing resource lists and holding stigma-reduction activities.
Rotary Area of Focus: Disease prevention and treatment, supporting education, youth empowerment, peace and conflict prevention
These projects will address immediate, highly relevant needs in Lake County, leveraging local partnerships and Rotary’s core values of connection, prevention, and community-building.