Certainly! Here are two Rotary project recommendations based on the current news, recent community themes, and Rotary’s areas of focus for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL:
1. Community Health & Education: Back-to-School Vaccination Clinics and Educational Outreach
Context:
A recent editorial highlighted the importance of vaccinations as schools resume, noting their critical role in community health and as an educational opportunity. With national discourse and local needs around vaccine education, ensuring that students and families in Lake County—including Gurnee and Waukegan—have access to vaccines and clear, fact-based information aligns tightly with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and health literacy.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Gurnee School District 56)
- Community health centers and pediatricians
- Local PTAs and parent organizations
- Walgreens/CVS pharmacy branches
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Lake County Health Department and local schools to assess gaps in vaccination access and education.
- Coordinate with schools to host after-hours or Saturday vaccination clinics in accessible locations.
- Develop and distribute bilingual (English and Spanish) educational materials about vaccination benefits, safety, and the vaccination schedule.
- Leverage Rotary volunteers for logistics, registration, translation, and providing refreshments/snacks.
- Explore grant funding from Rotary International or district matching funds.
2. Youth Engagement & Education: “Immigrant Stories” Community Literacy & History Project
Context:
Recent columns discussed America’s immigrant past and the importance of historically accurate, respectful discourse. Waukegan, in particular, is home to many immigrant families, and facilitating critical thinking about immigration can connect generations, promote literacy, and foster community pride—core to Rotary’s focus on basic education and literacy, as well as peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library, Gurnee’s Warren-Newport Public Library
- Local social service and immigrant support groups (e.g., Mano a Mano Family Resource Center)
- School district social studies and ESL teachers
- Local historians and authors
- Youth-oriented arts organizations (for creative story sharing)
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with libraries and youth groups to scope out a series: book clubs, “living library” events with guest speakers, and youth-led oral history recording.
- Recruit volunteers to support reading and writing sessions for youth and families.
- Organize an event calendar and publicize via local media and schools.
- Apply for Rotary District or local foundation grants to support book purchases, event costs, and materials.
- Celebrate the project with a community showcase, publishing stories (in print or online) to build understanding and pride.
Based on recent news and evolving community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligning with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Health & Economic Development: Supporting Waukegan’s Rebuilding Initiatives
Context:
Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham recently emphasized collective efforts to “rebuild Waukegan together,” focusing on making the city more livable and economically vibrant for all individuals and families. As North Chicago (neighboring Waukegan) receives a major $195 million AbbVie investment, there will be job creation, yet many local residents—particularly in underserved areas—face barriers to accessing such opportunities. Aligning with Rotary’s focus on community health and economic development, addressing workforce readiness, health disparities, and family well-being is critical as Waukegan rebuilds.
Potential Partners:
- City of Waukegan (Mayor Cunningham’s Office)
- AbbVie (Community Relations or HR Departments)
- Waukegan Park District
- Local schools and workforce agencies (e.g., Lake County Workforce Development)
- Rosalind Franklin University (health education outreach)
Next Steps:
- Schedule a meeting with Mayor Cunningham’s office and AbbVie’s community relations team to identify occupational skill gaps and community health needs.
- Design a “Waukegan Ready” event: a resource fair or job-readiness workshop offering resume assistance, interview prep, free health screenings (in partnership with local clinics/universities), and information about AbbVie jobs.
- Plan a supporting fundraising campaign for scholarships, work attire, or transportation vouchers for job-seekers.
- Involve Rotary volunteers in event planning, outreach, and day-of support.
- Measure impact and report back to community partners and sponsors.
2. Education & Technology: Bridging the AI Learning Gap in Lake County Schools
Context:
Lake County school districts are embracing AI technology in classrooms and “are on the forefront of recognizing the importance” of digital literacy. However, integration of new technologies often leaves some students and teachers without adequate support or resources, especially in lower-income areas of Waukegan and Gurnee. Equitable access to technology and digital skills aligns with Rotary’s commitment to education and supporting youth.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County school districts (technology coordinators or superintendents)
- Local libraries (e.g., Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee, Waukegan Public Library)
- Technology companies or educational nonprofits (e.g., Code.org, Microsoft Philanthropies)
- Parent-teacher organizations
Next Steps:
- Contact school district leaders to assess needs for hardware (laptops/tablets) and software, as well as interest in after-school digital literacy workshops for students and family members.
- Develop and fund a “Tech for All” grant program for devices or assistive technology, prioritizing under-resourced classrooms.
- Organize community workshops on “AI for Beginners” for students, parents, and teachers, leveraging volunteer expertise and partner support.
- Secure donations or sponsorships from local businesses for equipment and curriculum materials.
- Promote the program via district channels and Rotary’s network; collect feedback and adapt for future sessions.
These initiatives address pressing needs—economic opportunity, health equity, and tech-driven education—while furthering Rotary’s legacy of impact in Lake County.
1. Youth Literacy and Academic Excellence Initiative (Education & Youth Focus)
Context:
Lake County seventh-grader Visharad Sathish recently advanced to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., after winning a marathon regional competition. Hundreds of students from 73 area schools participated, highlighting strong youth interest in academic achievement, literacy, and intellectual competition across Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Gurnee School District 56)
- Public libraries (Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library)
- Parent-Teacher Associations
- Scripps National Spelling Bee organizers
Next Steps: - Contact the Lake County Regional Office of Education and school district literacy coordinators to identify areas of need for literacy resources or after-school enrichment. - Plan a Rotary-sponsored Literacy Champions program: fundraising for new leveled readers, sponsoring spelling and reading competitions at local schools, and offering scholarships or travel stipends for regional and national academic finalists (like Visharad Sathish). - Organize community spelling bee finals or reading festivals with interactive booths, family events, and guest speakers—possibly featuring Visharad Sathish as a local inspiration. - Recruit Rotary volunteers as mentors and event facilitators. Promote the importance of literacy, reading, and academic challenge in community communications.
2. "Green Schoolyards" Environmental Beautification Program (Environment & Youth Focus)
Context:
Many schools in Lake County, including those in urban/suburban centers like Gurnee and Waukegan, lack access to green spaces and environmental education opportunities. In Lake County, concerns about open space, native habitat, and stormwater management align with students’ and teachers’ interests in sustainability and outdoor learning. Environmental stewardship is a Rotary area of focus, and engaging youth increases community impact.
Potential Partners: - School district facilities departments - Lake County Forest Preserves - Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) for recycling education - Local garden clubs and nurseries - Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and school-based environmental clubs
Next Steps: - Connect with school principals and district operations to identify candidate schools interested in launching or expanding outdoor classrooms, native gardens, or pollinator habitats. - Organize a Rotary "Green Schoolyards" fundraising campaign to sponsor supplies for rain gardens, pollinator plantings, and composting programs. - Plan a spring/fall community service day for design and planting, recruiting youth from local clubs and schools, with Rotary members mentoring and providing supervision. - Develop an ongoing youth "eco-ambassador" program, facilitated by Rotary and school partners, to maintain green spaces, track environmental impacts, and share results at Rotary and school board meetings.
Both initiatives support Rotary’s commitment to education, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability, while responding directly to demonstrated community engagement and current needs in Lake County.
1. Rotary Youth Drug Prevention and Education Initiative
Context:
A recent arrest involved a cocaine dealer selling drugs near a Lake County middle school, highlighting the ongoing concern about substance abuse and its proximity to local youth. Prevention, education, and community engagement are needed, especially since schools and families are directly impacted.
Rotary Area of Focus: Disease prevention and treatment, Maternal and child health, Basic education and literacy, and Supporting the environment for safe school communities.
Potential Partners:
- Dredit Union School District 95 or other local districts (outreach to affected schools, joint programming)
- Lake County Health Department (resources, speakers, prevention materials)
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office (Drug Abuse Resistance Education - D.A.R.E. programs, student talks)
- Local parent-teacher organizations (PTOs)
- Community-based organizations like Nicasa Behavioral Health Services
Next Steps:
- Contact School District 95 leadership and the principal(s) of impacted schools to discuss partnership interest.
- Convene a task force with representatives from law enforcement, behavioral health, and trusted local youth leaders.
- Plan and fund evidence-based, interactive youth drug prevention programming (such as parent/youth workshops, peer education, distribution of educational materials).
- Consider an annual fundraising event (a fun run, local restaurant night, or benefit concert) specifically supporting youth prevention.
- Seek to secure grant funding/matching donations through the Rotary Foundation or local businesses.
2. Emergency Student Transportation Fundraiser & Support Project
Context:
Grayslake has just approved emergency funds for student transportation amid coverage gaps—potentially due to budget or staffing constraints. Reliable student transportation is crucial for educational access, especially for low-income and special needs families, but funding is not always sufficient.
Rotary Area of Focus: Education and literacy, Community economic development.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Community Consolidated School District 46 and District 95 (to identify specific student/family needs)
- Lake County Department of Transportation (collaboration on logistics and safety)
- Local senior centers (possible volunteer drivers or mentorship support)
- Regional non-profits such as United Way of Lake County or Lake County Community Foundation (for assistance connecting with vulnerable families)
- Local businesses (sponsorships and donations)
Next Steps:
- Meet with district officials to pinpoint transportation needs—e.g., targeted for after-school programs, special education, or underserved areas.
- Coordinate a community fundraiser (auction, gala, back-to-school carnival) earmarked for student transportation subsidies.
- Launch a Rotary-led “Adopt-a-Bus” campaign for local businesses to sponsor a vehicle or transit route.
- Explore volunteer and pro-bono driving options, leveraging retiree or parent volunteers (pending background checks and insurance regulations).
- Monitor and report on outcomes, sharing success stories with donors and the wider Rotary network.
These two initiatives directly address urgent news topics and align with Rotary’s focus areas, while leveraging local partnerships for a sustainable impact in Lake County.
1. Back-to-School Readiness Drive and Family Health Outreach
Context:
Scheduled for August 16, the Hastings Lake YMCA in Lindenhurst is hosting a FREE Family Back to School Bash. As many families in Lake County, especially in communities like Waukegan and North Chicago, continue to face economic pressures, access to school supplies, and basic healthcare remains a need. The event already functions as a gathering spot for families, providing an ideal opportunity to enhance support for local youth, aligning with Rotary’s focus areas of education and community health.
Potential Partners:
- Hastings Lake YMCA (lead event organizer)
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee District 56)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local businesses (Staples, Walgreens, Target for in-kind supply or funding support)
- Volunteer networks (Rotary Interact or high school service clubs)
Next Steps:
- Connect with Hastings Lake YMCA event coordinators to reserve a booth or integration point.
- Launch a Rotary-sponsored school supplies and children’s hygiene product drive in the weeks leading up to the event.
- Coordinate with Lake County Health Department to provide basic health screenings (vision, hearing, dental checks) and vaccines at the event.
- Promote volunteer opportunities for Rotary members and youth clubs to staff the booth and assist with logistics.
- Amplify via social media and local media, inviting community participation and donations.
2. Waterfront Environmental Stewardship and Community Market Partnership
Context:
The Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina (recurring, next dates: August 22 & September 26), brings together residents and local businesses, highlighting Waukegan’s ongoing revitalization and Lake Michigan’s central role in the environment and local economy. Lake County is actively addressing shoreline pollution and seeks community engagement in environmental stewardship, aligning with the Rotary focus on environment and economic development.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Port District & Waterfront Market organizers
- City of Waukegan (Public Works, Sustainability Office)
- Local environmental groups (Alliance for the Great Lakes, SCARCE, Lake County Audubon Society)
- Local businesses at the Market
- Schools with green or environmental clubs
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Waterfront Market coordinators to co-host a “Rotary Clean Shores Day,” engaging the public in shoreline litter cleanup and education about water stewardship.
- Organize a Rotary booth at the Market offering educational activities for families (e.g., “Build Your Own Rain Barrel” demo, native plant giveaway, eco-crafts for kids).
- Collaborate with local environmental groups to offer workshops on recycling, composting, and conservation.
- Track volunteer hours and impact, sharing results with the community and Rotary International.
- Consider selling eco-friendly products or raffle items to raise funds for ongoing stewardship projects.
Both initiatives foster community engagement, are easily scalable, and strengthen Rotary’s visibility in Gurnee, Waukegan, and wider Lake County—all while addressing current and documented needs.
1. Community Health Initiative: West Nile & Mosquito Awareness/Prevention Program
Context:
With Lake Bluff currently spraying for mosquitoes as West Nile virus activity peaks, there is heightened concern about mosquito-borne illnesses across Lake County. The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District and local health officials have noted peak periods, and recent rain and potential flooding (as reported in Lake Forest) increase mosquito breeding risk. Many residents may not have adequate prevention knowledge, especially vulnerable populations such as seniors and young families.
Potential Partners:
- North Shore Mosquito Abatement District
- Lake County Health Department
- Local schools (for education materials)
- Senior centers in Gurnee and Waukegan
- Homeowners’ associations
Next Steps:
- Connect with the Mosquito Abatement District for informational materials and expert speakers.
- Organize Rotary-hosted community workshops in high-traffic areas, such as community centers and libraries, focusing on eliminating standing water, proper use of repellents, and symptoms of West Nile virus.
- Distribute prevention kits (repellent, educational flyers, mosquito dunks for standing water) to at-risk neighborhoods in Gurnee, Waukegan, and related towns.
- Fundraise via a “Mosquito-Free Summer” campaign, engaging local businesses (like Waukegan Tire) as sponsors.
- Coordinate with local health officials to monitor the impact and adjust programming as necessary.
2. Environmental/Education Focus: Clean Air and Resilient Schools Project
Context:
Lake Forest recently experienced an “Air Pollution Action Day” due to unhealthy air quality, prompting concern for children’s health, particularly as schools are preparing to return (per the 2025–26 school calendar news). Ensuring school environments are safe amid increased pollution is both an immediate and long-term community need, especially for young students and those with asthma/allergies.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Gurnee, and Waukegan school districts
- Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs)
- Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA)
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Go Green Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to school districts and PTAs to assess needs and interest in air quality monitoring equipment and educational sessions.
- Launch a fundraising drive to buy classroom HEPA air purifiers for schools most impacted by pollution alerts and high asthma rates.
- Organize “Clean Air Days” at schools, combining hands-on environmental education (tree planting, air quality experiments) with health-focused activities for students.
- Create an awareness campaign for families (in English and Spanish), teaching actionable steps for home air quality and symptoms of pollution-related illness.
- Partner with local environmental experts to present at community assemblies or science nights.
These projects align with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention, community health, environmental stewardship, and education/youth enrichment.
1. Safe and Healthy Youth Initiative: Addressing Drug Activity Near Schools and Unlicensed Childcare
Context:
Lake County authorities recently arrested a cocaine dealer operating near a middle school (Grayslake news), and DCFS is investigating an unlicensed daycare in North Chicago where young children were present during a drug probe. Both incidents highlight risks to youth from drugs and unsafe child care, underscoring a need for education and support for families and schools.
Potential Rotary Partners: - Gurnee, Waukegan, and Libertyville school districts - Lake County Health Department - DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services) - Local law enforcement - Social service organizations such as Nicasa Behavioral Health Services
Next Steps: 1. Organize a Rotary-sponsored forum or series of workshops for parents, guardians, and youth about the dangers of drug activity, legal child care options, and community safety. Include panelists from law enforcement, DCFS, and youth counselors. 2. Fundraise for evidence-based prevention programs in schools (such as after-school clubs, education on drug prevention, and supportive services for at-risk youth). 3. Develop a volunteer initiative to support local schools and daycares, offering educational resources or facility safety improvements. 4. Leverage Rotary’s network to assist DCFS and local organizations in vetting and promoting safe, licensed in-home childcare.
2. Mental Health Support for Youth and First Responders: Responding to Tragedy at Great Lakes Naval Station
Context:
The recent suicide of Navy recruit Kayshawn Wilkerson at Great Lakes Naval Station, with ongoing investigation and community impact, sheds light on urgent mental health needs for both area youth and first responders. This follows a pattern of rising youth mental health crises nationally and highlights the emotional toll on emergency responders and military families in Lake County.
Potential Rotary Partners: - Lovell Federal Health Care Center (serving Great Lakes and veterans) - National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Lake County chapter - Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force - Local schools’ counseling departments - Military and veterans’ family associations
Next Steps: 1. Launch a Rotary fundraising campaign to support youth and first responder mental health initiatives—such as crisis hotlines, counseling subsidies, and training in trauma-informed care for volunteers, school staff, and law enforcement. 2. Host a “Mental Health and Resilience Day” event, open to the public, with seminars, support resource tables, and guest speakers from the military, mental health, and survivor communities. 3. Partner with area schools and bases to promote suicide prevention programs and peer support groups, integrating youth and military service perspectives. 4. Explore opportunities for Rotary members to receive specialized mental health volunteer training (e.g., Mental Health First Aid) so they can serve as advocates and resource connectors throughout Lake County.