1. Youth Kindness & Mental Wellness Campaign (Inspired by Ethan Wargo’s Compliment Stand)
Context:
The heartwarming story of 9-year-old Ethan Wargo, who set up a stand giving out free compliments in Lake County, has gone viral and touched the community. Ethan’s initiative highlights the importance of kindness and social connection among youth, which directly contributes to mental wellness—an area of concern for families and educators across Gurnee, Waukegan, and the greater Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee Dist. 56)
- Youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts)
- Local mental health nonprofits (Lake County Health Department, NAMI Lake County)
- Ethan Wargo’s family as local youth ambassadors
Next Steps:
- Reach out to school and youth group leaders to propose a “Kindness Week” or “Compliment Stand Challenge” across schools, inspired by Ethan.
- Develop educational kits and signage to help students set up their own kindness stands or campaigns.
- Partner with mental health professionals to provide age-appropriate resources about positive self-talk and peer support.
- Organize a culminating event—such as a “Community Compliment Festival”—where participants share stories, receive certificates, and enjoy wellness activities.
- Use the event to raise funds for local youth mental health resources, through sponsorship and community donations.
2. Voter Engagement & Civic Education Drive for Youth and Families
Context:
Recent news focused on political activity in Illinois, with increased attention on upcoming gubernatorial and Senate races. With 2026 poised to be a significant election year, there is an urgent need for nonpartisan civic engagement, particularly targeting youth and first-time voters in Lake County, where turnout and civic understanding can be improved. This directly aligns with Rotary’s focus on education and peacebuilding.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools (Warren Township, Waukegan High, Woodland Middle School)
- Public libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport)
- League of Women Voters of Lake County
- Lake County Clerk’s Office (elections division)
- After-school youth programs, YMCA
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with schools and libraries to create nonpartisan voter education workshops, including “mock election” experiences.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers to serve as classroom speakers and workshop facilitators, teaching about elections, the importance of voting, and respectful civil discourse.
- Develop multi-lingual voter information guides for families, with fun youth-focused activities (e.g., “create your own campaign poster”).
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored “Youth Civic Challenge” event, with scholarships or prizes for teams demonstrating outstanding civic knowledge or engagement projects.
- Launch a fundraising campaign to sponsor voter education materials and support transportation for families to polling places in 2026.
1. Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive Playground Enhancement Initiative
Context:
Lake County has recently celebrated the opening of two new inclusive playgrounds, including Mundelein’s Kracklauer Park and Hero Park in Round Lake Park. These playgrounds are designed to welcome children of all abilities, marking a positive step toward social inclusion and physical accessibility. However, sustaining such spaces and expanding their resources—including adding sensory-friendly features, adaptive play equipment, and community programming—can enhance their impact and maximize use by families with special needs.
Potential Partners: - Local parent advocacy groups (e.g., Gurnee Park District Special Recreation Association) - Special education departments at local schools (such as North Shore School District 112) - Local government (Round Lake and Mundelein municipalities) - Nonprofits such as NISRA (Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association)
Next Steps: - Contact playground organizers and municipal park departments to identify any unmet needs or wish lists for the new spaces. - Convene a meeting with parent and special recreation groups to gather input on desired enhancements, such as specialized equipment or inclusive programming (e.g., playdates, educational signage, accessible sports days). - Organize a fundraising event (family carnival, sponsored walk) or seek Rotary district/community grants to finance these additions. - Recruit volunteers for playground clean-up days or the implementation of new accessible features.
2. Environmental and Mosquito Prevention Public Health Drive
Context:
The news highlights that Lake County is moving to dissolve the South Lake Mosquito Abatement District after decades of service. With the potential for reduced public mosquito control, there may be an increased risk of vector-borne illnesses (like West Nile Virus), and a need for enhanced community education on environmentally friendly prevention strategies.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department & Community Health Center - Fox Waterway Agency (already involved in wetland and waterway maintenance) - Local schools (for youth education projects) - Environmental groups (e.g., Lake County Forest Preserves)
Next Steps: - Arrange a partnership meeting with the Health Department and environmental agencies to discuss the transition of mosquito abatement efforts and identify areas needing community engagement. - Develop and disseminate educational materials and host workshops for residents on eliminating standing water, using natural repellents, and promoting pollinator-friendly landscapes. - Launch a service project to distribute free mosquito control kits (larvicide dunks, DIY rain barrel covers) and plant pollinator-supportive native plants in public areas. - Leverage local youth (e.g., scouts, school ecology clubs) in community outreach and neighborhood canvassing with educational door hangers.
Both these projects directly support Rotary’s areas of focus: supporting education and youth, improving community health, fostering inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
1. Lake County Youth Academic Achievement Sponsorship – Supporting Local Spelling Bee and Literacy Initiatives
Context:
Lake County’s Visharad Sathish, a seventh grader, recently won a highly competitive regional spelling bee and is headed to the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This achievement highlights the strong academic potential of local youth and underscores the need to support literacy and educational excellence for all students in the area, particularly those from underserved backgrounds.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (e.g., North Shore School District 112)
- Nonprofits such as United Way of Lake County or the Lake County Community Foundation
- Local literacy groups or tutoring centers (e.g., Waukegan to College)
Next Steps:
- Organize a fundraising campaign (“Send Our Champ to D.C.”) to support Visharad’s trip and to establish an ongoing fund for future spelling bee qualifiers from Lake County, ensuring financial obstacles do not hinder participation.
- Host a county-wide literacy night or spelling bee showcase, with proceeds supporting school reading programs in Waukegan, Gurnee, and surrounding areas.
- Work with education officials to identify gaps in literacy or competition access—then create grants or volunteer tutoring programs targeting those needs.
- Include Rotary members as volunteer judges, coaches, or event organizers to promote service and mentorship.
2. Inclusive Play for All – Supporting New Inclusive Playgrounds in Lake County
Context:
The opening of two new inclusive playgrounds in Lake County is a major milestone for children and families, especially those with disabilities. Ensuring these playgrounds remain accessible, vibrant, and well-supported meets both community health and youth service needs.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves or Park Districts
- Local parent advocacy organizations (e.g., Families Helping Families Chicagoland)
- Special recreation associations (e.g., Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association, NSSRA)
- Businesses that may sponsor playground equipment or accessibility upgrades
Next Steps:
- Organize a “Playground Day of Service” bringing Rotary members and community volunteers together for a clean-up, planting native gardens around the playgrounds, or installing sensory-friendly enhancements.
- Host a fundraiser (e.g., fun run, family picnic, or carnival) to provide additional accessible equipment, benches, or signage in multiple languages.
- Build awareness about the playgrounds by partnering on a “Playground Passport” program—encouraging families to visit and celebrate inclusive spaces throughout the county, with Rotary hosting kickoff or closing events.
- Explore supporting ongoing maintenance or programming (e.g., inclusive play days, adaptive sports) in collaboration with local park staff.
Project 1: Heat Relief and Wellness Initiative for Vulnerable Populations
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health
Context:
Recent news of dangerous heat waves with 110-degree heat indices and related storms across Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, highlight the urgent need for community support, especially for seniors and vulnerable residents. The tragic incident involving a 79-year-old woman with memory issues being struck while unsupervised underscores not just mobility risks for older adults but also the challenges they face during extreme weather events. Many local food pantries are also reporting spikes in usage, often compounded in extreme weather.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Council on Aging - Local healthcare providers and hospitals (e.g., Vista Health in Waukegan) - Police and sheriff’s departments - Area food pantries and senior centers (e.g., Catholic Charities Senior Services) - Municipalities of Gurnee, Waukegan, and nearby areas
Next Steps: 1. Convene a partnership meeting with local agencies serving seniors, emergency responders, and food pantries. 2. Launch a “Rotary Heat Relief Drive” to collect and distribute box fans, reusable water bottles, cooling towels, and hydration kits at senior centers, pantries, and affordable housing complexes. 3. Organize wellness check-in volunteer teams, who could make scheduled phone (or in-person, as appropriate) wellness calls/visits during extreme weather to high-risk individuals, especially those with medical or cognitive conditions. 4. Fundraise through local business sponsorships, Rotary events (e.g., during SummerFest or sports games), and online giving specifically earmarked for weather-related community health support. 5. Partner with local media and city websites to communicate heat safety, senior check-in tips, and available Rotary support.
Project 2: Youth Drug Prevention & After-School Engagement Program
Rotary Area of Focus: Education and Youth
Context:
A recent arrest was made for a cocaine dealer operating near a Lake County middle school (Beach Park area), pointing to ongoing risks of drug exposure for youth in Waukegan, Gurnee, and surrounding communities. Coupled with the risk factors that increase during summer months and after school hours, there is a pressing need for preventative education and healthy alternatives for area youth.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Sheriff’s Office and local police (community policing units) - School Districts (e.g., Grayslake, Waukegan, Gurnee) - Youth service providers (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, COOL Ministries) - Local healthcare and counseling centers - Faith organizations and recreation departments
Next Steps: 1. Coordinate with schools and law enforcement to bring evidence-based drug awareness programs and assemblies to middle and high schools (invite local wellness or prevention experts as speakers). 2. Establish a Rotary-funded “Safe Afterschool Spaces” pilot offering structured activities—tutoring, arts, sports, mentorship—at trusted community centers in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Beach Park. 3. Apply for Rotary district and local grants to provide materials, snacks, and a stipend for staff/mentors. 4. Develop a youth ambassador program, partnering with local high schools to empower student leaders in prevention education and peer outreach. 5. Organize a fundraising campaign through local business partners and an annual Rotary Family Community Night, where proceeds directly support these initiatives and highlight positive youth stories.
Each of these projects directly responds to current needs in Lake County and aligns with Rotary’s focus on immediate community health and long-term youth development.
1. Back-to-School Support Drive with YMCA and Local Schools
Rotary Area of Focus: Education & Basic Needs, Supporting Youth
Context:
The Hastings Lake YMCA in Lindenhurst is hosting a "FREE Family Back to School Bash" on August 16, indicating a community focus on supporting families and students as the new school year begins. Many Lake County and Waukegan area families face economic hardships, with schools often indicating needs for supplies and outreach for students. The back-to-school season is an ideal time to address both educational and basic needs (such as backpacks, school supplies, hygiene kits, or shoes).
Potential Partners:
- Hastings Lake YMCA (Event host; contact their youth or community outreach coordinator)
- Local school districts (Waukegan Public Schools, Gurnee District 56, Grayslake School Districts)
- Lake County Community Action Partnership
- Local businesses (to sponsor or provide supplies; e.g., Target, Staples)
- Food pantries and shelters (for distribution to at-risk families)
Next Steps:
- Connect with the Hastings Lake YMCA to discuss how Rotary can supplement or partner on their Back to School Bash (i.e., host a Rotary table, run a supplies drive in advance, volunteer at the event)
- Coordinate with local schools to identify high-need items
- Organize a donation drive within Rotary’s network and partnering businesses
- Offer volunteer support during the YMCA event (set up, hand out supplies, run activities)
- Publicize the effort through Patch, school newsletters, and Rotary channels
2. Environmental Community Clean-Up and Education at Waukegan Harbor Waterfront Market
Rotary Area of Focus: The Environment, Community Development, Youth Engagement
Context:
The ongoing Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor (August 22 and September 26) attracts families and visitors and is located in an area of Lake County with environmental and economic challenges, including waterfront pollution and stormwater runoff issues. With growing interest in sustainability and Rotary’s environment focus, this setting offers a chance to engage local youth, businesses, and residents in both beautification and education.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District and Harbor Marina staff
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Lake County Forest Preserves, Alliance for the Great Lakes)
- Waukegan Main Street (business association)
- Scout troops, school environmental clubs, and youth groups
- Local waste management companies
Next Steps:
- Contact the organizers of the Waukegan Waterfront Market about arranging a Rotary-led community clean-up and/or recycling information booth during the market days
- Recruit volunteers from Rotary, schools, and youth organizations
- Partner with environmental organizations to provide hands-on learning (e.g., about water quality, invasive species, recycling)
- Arrange for supplies: gloves, bags, safety vests; recruit sponsorships from local businesses
- Publicize participants’ efforts (press release, Patch coverage, post-event celebration at market)
- Use the opportunity for on-site fundraising (e.g., donations for every bag of trash collected, raffle, or eco-product sale benefiting future projects)
These initiatives both directly address current community events/needs in Lake County, align with Rotary’s areas of focus, and foster sustained partnerships in Gurnee, Waukegan, and neighboring communities.
1. Community Health & Senior Safety: "Safe Steps for Seniors" Initiative
Context:
A recent incident involved a 79-year-old Ingleside woman with memory issues who was struck by a car after leaving home without her caretaker's knowledge. This puts a spotlight on the vulnerability of seniors, especially those with cognitive challenges, in Lake County communities such as Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding areas. Extreme summer heat and local flood risk (as reported by the National Weather Service) further heighten dangers for the elderly.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff’s Department
- Local senior centers and assisted living facilities (e.g., those in Gurnee, Waukegan)
- Lake County Council for Seniors
- OMNI Youth Services (already engaged in mental health support)
Next Steps:
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored workshop series on safety for seniors with a focus on wandering prevention, home safety, and extreme weather preparedness.
- Launch a fundraising drive to provide free or subsidized GPS-enabled wearable devices for high-risk seniors.
- Cooperate with law enforcement to distribute resource cards and facilitate “safe return” ID registration events.
- Partner with professionals to host memory care awareness classes for families and caregivers in the area.
- Promote awareness through local news channels and social media to reach at-risk populations and their families.
2. Community Health & Environment: "Mosquito Safety and Prevention Drive"
Context:
Lake Bluff is currently conducting additional mosquito spraying due to a peak in West Nile virus activity, an annual issue in Lake County during summer. There is an urgent need for educational outreach and preventive action, especially as flood watches and heavy rains can exacerbate mosquito breeding. Public health messaging and personal protection measures are essential to reduce infection risk.
Potential Partners:
- North Shore Mosquito Abatement District
- Local school districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and nearby communities
- Lake County Health Department
- Community youth clubs and Scouts
Next Steps:
- Organize volunteer-led community education days at parks and schools, teaching families about eliminating standing water and using proper protection (repellents, appropriate clothing).
- Initiate a fundraising campaign to distribute free insect repellent and mosquito dunks to low-income residents, especially those in flood-prone neighborhoods.
- Partner with local youth groups for a “Mosquito Patrol,” where children and teens help survey neighborhoods for stagnant water and share prevention materials door-to-door.
- Collaborate with the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District for up-to-date data and to host educational workshops.
- Publicize the Rotary Club’s initiative through school newsletters, local media, and community events to maximize reach.
1. Senior Safety & Wellness Initiative
Context:
A recent incident in Lake County involved a 79-year-old woman with memory issues who left home unsupervised and was struck by a car. This highlights a critical need in the area for enhanced support, safety, and resources for seniors, especially those living with memory impairments or isolated from regular care.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Senior Services
- Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter
- Local home health agencies (e.g., BrightStar Care of Gurnee)
- Gurnee and Waukegan police departments (community outreach units)
- Community churches and synagogues with senior outreach programs
Next Steps:
- Convene an exploratory meeting with Lake County Senior Services and the Alzheimer’s Association to assess current gaps in senior safety, especially for those with cognitive decline.
- Organize a "Senior Safety Fair" offering resources like medical ID bracelets, senior-friendly transportation information, technology demonstrations (GPS tracking devices), and caregiver support.
- Apply for a Rotary District Grant to procure safety and wellness kits.
- Recruit volunteers for wellness checks and to facilitate education sessions for families and caregivers.
- Publicize the initiative in senior community centers, religious institutions, and local media.
2. Youth Health & Safe Spaces Campaign
Context:
News of a Navy recruit’s suicide at the Great Lakes Naval Station, together with ongoing stressors including recent heat waves and housing instability (e.g., unlicensed daycares), signal pressing mental health and safety needs among local youth and young adults. There is a particular need for preventive education, mental health support, and safe recreation opportunities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department (Behavioral Health Services)
- Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (Gurnee)
- Schools and local colleges (College of Lake County, Waukegan School District 60)
- Youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Big Brothers Big Sisters)
- Faith-based youth ministries
Next Steps:
- Meet with behavioral health leaders and school administrators to identify specific mental health resource gaps and needs for safe after-school spaces.
- Develop “Mental Health Champions” workshops for youth and adults, offering QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training and information on local counseling services.
- Host a community fundraising event (walk/run, benefit concert, or teen talent show) to support scholarships for youth summer programs and counseling services.
- Apply for Rotary International Global or District Grants to fund safe recreation equipment for community centers or transportation to mental health services.
- Collaborate with area media to promote safe spaces, resources, and destigmatize youth mental health issues.