Given the recent news feed from August 11, 2025, appears sparse on high-profile headlines from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, focusing instead on a health-related piece about sugar in orange juice and industry trends. In absence of specific breaking news or emergencies, Rotary Clubs can still meaningfully address persistent area needs and align with Rotary’s areas of focus, particularly in community health, education, and youth support.
1. Healthy Choices for Kids and Families Initiative
Context:
The recent attention to sugar content in orange juice by the FDA, coupled with ongoing concerns from dietitians about added sugars in children’s diets, brings to light the broader challenge of nutrition education and healthy food access in the Lake County region. Waukegan, in particular, has high rates of childhood obesity and food insecurity, as documented in local public health assessments.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (active in Lake County)
- Lake County Health Department's Community Health program
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee School District 56)
- Community-based organizations such as Mano a Mano Family Resource Center
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with local school wellness coordinators and health department officials to identify current gaps in nutrition education and healthy food access.
- Organize a “Healthy Breakfasts and Snacks” workshop series at schools and community centers, featuring dietitians and interactive demonstrations.
- Apply for a Rotary District Grant to fund fresh fruit/vegetable tastings, take-home kits, and bilingual educational materials for families.
- Recruit volunteer Rotarians and student leaders to help facilitate workshops and coordinate logistics.
2. Summer Youth Enrichment & Gap-Closing Project
Context:
With summer programming and after-school opportunities often limited for at-risk youth, the “summer slide” in educational achievement and the need for engaging, positive activities are pressing. Gurnee and Waukegan libraries, schools, and community centers regularly note the need for expanded enrichment—especially in STEM, literacy, and youth leadership—to improve outcomes and well-being.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library and Gurnee’s Warren-Newport Public Library
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County (serving both Gurnee & Waukegan)
- Local businesses willing to sponsor activities or provide resources (e.g., AbbVie, which has a major presence in Lake County)
- School district summer programs and PTO/PTA groups
Next Steps:
- Survey local youth-serving organizations and libraries regarding their biggest needs for summer enrichment programming (e.g., books, STEM kits, volunteers, meals).
- Organize a Rotary “Summer of Learning” campaign: recruit club members and community volunteers to run reading circles, science experiments, or coding workshops in partnership with libraries and youth nonprofits.
- Seek funding from local businesses and Rotary grants to provide supplies or sponsor field trips for underserved youth.
- Evaluate impact through participant feedback and consider expanding into year-round after-school offerings.
Both initiatives are practical, sustainable, and directly address community health, education, and youth development within Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County. Active collaboration with local partners will be essential in tailoring and scaling these service projects.
1. Community Health: West Nile Virus Prevention and Education Campaign
Context:
Recent reports highlight increased spraying in Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, to combat the threat of West Nile virus, emphasizing that “all residents should take precautions to protect themselves.” Heightened incidence of mosquito-borne diseases signals a risk to public health—particularly for children, the elderly, and low-income families who may lack proper resources or education regarding protection.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center
- Local municipal governments (Gurnee, Waukegan, Zion, Beach Park)
- Local schools and park districts
- Youth organizations such as Scouts
- Environmental groups such as Lake County Audubon Society
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Lake County Health Department to discuss ways Rotary can support or expand outreach, particularly for high-risk neighborhoods.
- Organize a preventive education and supply distribution event—handing out free or subsidized insect repellent, mosquito nets, and educational materials at parks, schools, and community centers.
- Enlist youth volunteers for neighborhood canvassing and to assist with preparing and distributing materials at local events.
- Create bilingual flyers/posters to increase awareness in Spanish-speaking communities.
- Consider a fundraiser to purchase supplies and support ongoing community health outreach.
2. Youth/Education: STEM Inspiration Week in Memory of Commander James Lovell
Context:
Commander James Lovell, celebrated Apollo 13 astronaut and Lake County resident, has passed away (obituary published August 2025). Lovell’s storied career in STEM is an opportunity to inspire local youth, many of whom may lack exposure to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) career paths.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 and Gurnee School District 56
- Adler Planetarium (which honors Lovell’s legacy)
- Local science teachers, libraries, and YMCAs
- College of Lake County STEM faculty and clubs
- Area youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club, Girl Scouts, etc.)
Next Steps:
- Propose an annual “James Lovell STEM Inspiration Week” during the school year, featuring talks by area professionals, hands-on science activities, and field trips.
- Coordinate with the Adler Planetarium for potential loaned displays/presentations or guest speaker arrangements.
- Work with local schools and the College of Lake County to identify student groups for scholarships, mentorship, or project competitions focusing on space, engineering, or health science themes.
- Pursue partnerships or sponsorships with area tech and engineering companies for funding and volunteer STEM mentors.
- Launch a fundraising campaign—potentially a community dinner or “shoot for the moon” trivia night—to kickstart the James Lovell Youth STEM Scholarship Fund.
Both projects are timely, impactful, and reflect Rotary’s commitment to community health, youth empowerment, and education.
Based on recent news coverage in Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, and in consideration of Rotary International’s areas of focus, here are two highly relevant service or fundraising opportunities for your Rotary Club:
1. Supporting Youth Achievement and Literacy: Spelling Bee Sponsorship & Mentorship
Context:
Local seventh grader Visharad Sathish’s victory at the Lake County Regional Spelling Bee and his upcoming participation in the National Spelling Bee highlight both the academic talent in Lake County and the importance of literacy and educational opportunities for youth. This annual event involves participation from 73 schools and hundreds of students, demonstrating strong community interest. However, not all families or schools have the resources or support networks to fully develop their students’ literacy skills.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee District 56, Woodland District 50, etc.)
- Public libraries
- Educational nonprofits, such as the Literacy Volunteers of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Regional Office of Education and relevant school districts to explore sponsorship or partnership for the next spelling bee season.
- Launch a “Words Matter” fundraiser to provide travel stipends, study materials, and mentorship for spelling bee participants—especially those from under-resourced backgrounds.
- Organize Rotary-led spelling clinics and tutoring sessions in partnership with local libraries and education volunteers.
- Host an annual Rotary Literacy Awards night to honor outstanding participants and raise awareness of local literacy initiatives.
- Publicize Rotary’s role via local press and social media, highlighting community impact and the value of educational achievement.
2. Community Health Initiative: West Nile Virus Prevention and Education Drive
Context:
Recent news in Lake County signals stepped-up efforts against the West Nile virus, with health officials urging residents to take preventative precautions. The presence of this disease remains a recurring concern during summer, especially since climate change can exacerbate mosquito populations. Many residents, particularly vulnerable or low-income families, may lack access to mosquito-repellent materials or accurate information about prevention.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local municipalities (Waukegan, Gurnee, etc.)
- Environmental organizations and park districts
- Pharmacy chains and outdoor supply stores (for in-kind donations)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate a Rotary-organized “Protect Lake County” drive to distribute free or subsidized mosquito repellents, larvicides, and informational pamphlets in areas identified as high-risk.
- Invite public health officials to speak at a Rotary event or organize community workshops at schools and civic centers about West Nile prevention and environmental stewardship.
- Volunteer with local park districts in environmental cleanup activities to reduce standing water and possible mosquito breeding grounds.
- Fundraise through an “Evening for Healthy Communities” event, drawing on community partners and local businesses, with proceeds supporting public health supplies and education initiatives.
- Publicize Rotary’s leadership in community health via local media, fostering Rotary's role as a frontline partner in preventive care and environmental health.
Both projects align directly with Rotary’s areas of focus—supporting education and literacy, and disease prevention and health. They respond to demonstrated community interests and emerging needs, offer high-visibility partnership opportunities, and deliver real, measurable benefits for Lake County residents.
1. Community Health Project: Pediatric Dental Health & Safety Awareness Campaign
Context:
A recent tragedy involved the death of Sophia Farmer, a young girl from Spring Grove, following a dental procedure at a Grayslake clinic (875 E. Washington Street). This incident, currently under investigation by the Cook County Medical Examiner, has likely heightened community concern over pediatric dental procedures and patient safety in the Lake County area. Prompt response and education on health and safety fit well with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and treatment.
Potential Partners:
- Local dental clinics (including the clinic involved for transparency and trust-building)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local school districts in Grayslake, Gurnee, and Waukegan
- American Dental Association (local chapter)
- Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Lake County Health Department and area dental professionals to form an advisory committee.
- Organize informational sessions for parents and caregivers in schools, libraries, and community centers.
- Develop & distribute easy-to-understand printed and digital materials about dental procedure risks, questions to ask providers, and how to advocate for child safety.
- Host a panel/Q&A with dental health professionals to restore community trust and provide accurate information.
- Seek grant funding for educational supplies and potential subsidies for families seeking second opinions on pediatric dental work.
2. Fundraising & Service Project: Emergency Relief for Displaced Families
Context:
A recent fire in Grayslake, reportedly starting with a vehicle blaze and spreading, displaced local residents. Such incidents highlight the ongoing need for emergency support, transitional housing, and basic necessities for families affected by disasters—a need that extends across Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee. This is aligned with Rotary’s focus on community economic development and support for vulnerable populations.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake and Lake County fire departments
- Local Red Cross chapter
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Community Action Partnership of Lake County
- Area faith communities
- Local businesses willing to provide goods or sponsorships
Next Steps:
- Connect with local emergency responders to identify immediate and long-term needs for displaced families.
- Organize a “Restock & Rebuild” donation drive, collecting household goods, emergency supplies, and gift cards for affected families.
- Plan a fundraising event, such as a community meal or gala, with proceeds supporting an emergency relief fund.
- Mobilize Rotary club volunteers to assist with distributing donated items and to help families connect with housing and social services.
- Consider an ongoing Rotary Emergency Relief Fund that can respond to future incidents in the Gurnee/Waukegan/Grayslake area, in collaboration with partners above.
These initiatives position Rotary clubs at the heart of addressing urgent community needs while fostering partnerships and trust within Lake County.
1. Back-to-School Supply Initiative at Hastings Lake YMCA Family Bash
Rotary Area of Focus: Education, Supporting Families, Youth Development
Context:
The "Hastings Lake YMCA FREE Family Back to School Bash" (August 16, 2025, in Lindenhurst) is timed perfectly as families prepare for the new school year. In Lake County—including Gurnee and Waukegan—many students experience resource gaps, especially in under-resourced districts. Community organizations and schools report ongoing needs for school supplies and youth wellness support.
Potential Partners:
- Hastings Lake YMCA (event organizer, youth/family network)
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan Public Schools, Gurnee District 56)
- Local businesses (e.g., CG Granite, Jewel-Osco—recent event hosts/participants)
- United Way of Lake County (youth initiatives)
- Rotary Interact Clubs at local schools (youth involvement)
Next Steps:
- Contact YMCA event coordinators to propose setting up a Rotary booth for school supply and backpack distribution, providing free vision screenings, and sharing youth wellness resources at the Bash.
- Solicit donations/fundraising from local businesses and community members in advance (hold supply drives at markets, Rotary meetings, and through participating businesses).
- Coordinate volunteer sign-ups among Rotary and Interact members.
- Partner with schools to identify students most in need and gather feedback for future outreach.
- Report outcomes and plan to repeat or expand next year.
2. Waukegan Waterfront Market Environmental Awareness & Clean-Up Day
Rotary Area of Focus: Environment, Community Health, Economic Development
Context:
The Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina (next markets: August 22 & September 26) draws residents and families to the lakeshore, which faces ongoing environmental concerns (litter, shoreline pollution, need for native plantings). Waukegan is also investing in downtown revitalization and recreation access.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Harbor and Marina (event organizers)
- City of Waukegan Environmental Sustainability Committee
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Lake County Audubon, Friends of Osprey Lake)
- Cub Scouts/Boy Scouts and school eco-clubs
- Local businesses at the market (for sponsorship)
Next Steps:
- Approach market organizers to host a Rotary-sponsored booth during the market, sharing environmental tips and recruiting marketgoers and vendors to participate in a hands-on cleanup.
- Organize a shoreline litter pickup immediately before or after market hours, supplying participants with gloves, bags, safety info, and refreshments.
- Collaborate with city agencies and scouts to plant native wildflowers or grasses along the waterfront.
- Promote Rotary’s environmental focus, collect data/photos for reporting, and maintain ties with community partners for ongoing stewardship projects.
1. Community Health & Environment: Air Quality & Pollution Action Response Project
Context:
Recent alerts in Lake Forest indicate hazardous air quality and prompted official Air Pollution Action Days. Such events pose immediate and long-term health risks, particularly to children, seniors, and those with respiratory issues. Education and mitigation are needed in Gurnee, Waukegan, and across Lake County, given industrial corridors, high-traffic areas, and vulnerability of some community segments.
Potential Rotary Project:
- Host a "Clean Air Awareness & Relief Day": Offer free information on indoor air quality, distribute home air filtration kits (such as low-cost HEPA filters or “DIY air purifiers”), and provide N95-type particulate masks for vulnerable residents on high-alert days.
- Partner with local schools (such as Waukegan Public Schools and Gurnee School District 56), public libraries, the Lake County Health Department, and environmental nonprofits (Lake County Audubon, Sierra Club, etc.) to educate and equip residents.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local public schools
- Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library
- Sierra Club Lake County
- Community businesses (Menards/Gurnee Mills/Target for filters)
Next Steps:
- Contact Lake County Health Department to identify priority neighborhoods and coordinate alerts/resource distribution.
- Outreach to schools and libraries for educational material distribution and hosting workshops or “clinics.”
- Apply for Rotary District Grants to subsidize air filter kits and masks.
- Organize volunteers for door-to-door outreach and public event staffing.
2. Education & Youth: Back-to-School Resource & Mental Wellness Fair
Context:
With back-to-school season imminent for Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Waukegan, and Gurnee, families are preparing for the new academic year. Given economic disparities in Lake County, many students lack essential supplies. Additionally, after several years of mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, students are facing increased stress and adjustment demands.
Potential Rotary Project:
- Back-to-School & Youth Wellness Fair: Combine traditional supply giveaways (backpacks, notebooks, calculators) with on-site resources from local counseling services, crisis text line info, and interactive sessions on stress management/mindfulness. Invite local educators and mental health professionals for Q&A and breakout sessions.
Potential Partners:
- Public school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee SD56, Lake Forest SDs)
- NAMI Lake County
- Youth & Family Counseling/Lake County
- Rosalind Franklin University (nursing/psychology student volunteers)
- Local businesses (Target, Walmart) for supply donations
Next Steps:
- Set event date prior to school start; secure school gym/library as venue.
- Approach mental health agencies and school counselors to lead interactive sessions.
- Run a supply drive in partnership with local businesses for donations.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers for distribution and event logistics.
- Promote event using school newsletters, social media, and local press.
These projects address immediate community health hazards and longer-term student well-being and educational equity, directly aligning with Rotary’s core areas of focus and demonstrating meaningful, responsive local impact.
1. Youth Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Initiative
Context:
Recent news from Libertyville highlights the tragic death of Navy recruit Kayshawn Wilkerson at Great Lakes Naval Station, reported as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. This underscores an urgent community need for youth and young adult mental health support—particularly for those facing high-pressure environments like military training, but also more broadly for teens and young adults in Lake County. Given the continuing mental health crisis nationally and locally, Rotary’s focus on Disease Prevention and Treatment and Supporting Education are pertinent.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department (LCHD): Offers mental health services and could co-sponsor events or workshops.
- Great Lakes Naval Station: Coordination for targeted interventions and resources.
- Local Schools and Colleges: Lake County high schools and College of Lake County for outreach.
- Youth and Family Counseling Agency of Lake County: Expertise in running youth support programs.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Lake County Chapter.
Next Steps: 1. Reach out to LCHD and NAMI Lake County to assess current programming and identify resource gaps. 2. Form a Rotary taskforce to coordinate planning, including engaging members with mental health backgrounds. 3. Partner with Great Lakes Naval Station and local schools to arrange awareness seminars, peer-support training, and distribution of crisis resource materials. 4. Organize a fundraising event (such as a Run/Walk for Hope or benefit dinner) to support local suicide prevention programs and provide funds for mental health first aid training in schools. 5. Promote events and resources using local news media and social media channels to reach both youth and families across Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County.
2. Safe & Healthy Childcare Initiative: Licensing & Substance Prevention
Context:
Libertyville-area news reports detail investigations into unlicensed daycare operations, including a recent case in North Chicago where meth was reportedly being sold out of a home while children were present. This reveals a need for safer, properly regulated childcare and for substance abuse prevention education targeted at parents and caregivers. These concerns echo Rotary’s focus areas of Child and Maternal Health and Supporting Education.
Potential Partners:
- Illinois Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS): Authority on daycare licensing and child safety.
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office: Active in exposing unlicensed/unsafe conditions.
- Child Advocacy Center of Lake County
- Local churches, PTA groups, and community centers: Trusted community access points for outreach and education.
Next Steps: 1. Contact DCFS and local law enforcement to learn about their needs for community outreach and areas lacking resources or awareness. 2. Develop and host free community workshops for parents and caregivers about the importance of licensed childcare, how to identify safe providers, and substance use prevention in households with children. 3. Create a fundraising campaign (such as a “Safe Start” breakfast or online giving challenge) to provide scholarships for parents needing assistance with licensed childcare or to help fund home safety/childproofing kits. 4. Distribute family safety resources and host Q&A sessions at local community centers, libraries, and places of worship. 5. Evaluate program outcomes with DCFS and law enforcement to adjust outreach and improve future child safety efforts.
Both initiatives address ongoing local challenges with solutions that intersect health, safety, and education—well-aligned with Rotary’s mission and areas of focus, and with potential for strong community partnerships.