Rotary Service and Fundraising Project Recommendations for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL (August 2025):
Context:
A recent story highlights Trinity Lutheran Church and Good News Garage delivering donated, repaired bicycles to families in need, including recent immigrants. This demonstrates an ongoing local need for affordable transportation, especially among youth and new residents. Access to bikes not only helps with mobility but also supports youth independence, attendance at school/activities, and overall well-being—directly tying to Rotary’s areas of focus in education and community health.
Potential Partners: - Trinity Lutheran Church (contact: Emily Olivos and Frank Hauser, per news item) - Good News Garage (vehicle and bike donation & repair expertise) - Local schools (for identifying youth in need) - Police departments (bike safety education) - Area bike shops and sporting goods providers
Next Steps: 1. Connect with Trinity Lutheran Church/Good News Garage to coordinate logistics and pool resources or volunteers. 2. Host a Bike Collection Event: Organize donation drives at high-traffic public locations (schools, churches, farmers markets) to collect used bikes. 3. Set Up Bike Maintenance & Safety Clinics: Use Rotary volunteers and local bike shop partners to repair donated bikes and run safety education workshops for youth and families. 4. Distribute Bicycles: Target families and students identified through schools and community organizations. 5. Fundraise as Needed: Host a community ride or bike-a-thon to fund repair costs, helmet purchases, or annual scholarships for bike maintenance kits.
Context:
A Daily Herald editorial and statewide legislative changes have highlighted senior driving law reforms in Illinois. With a significant senior population in Lake County affected by these changes, there’s an urgent need to support seniors in staying mobile, safe, and healthy. Rotary can facilitate community health and safety by partnering with local agencies to provide education, hearing/vision screenings, and resources for older drivers.
Potential Partners: - Local DMV offices (for up-to-date senior driving guidelines) - Area hospitals/healthcare providers (vision, hearing, and wellness screenings) - Senior centers and retirement communities - Law enforcement (on safe driving strategies) - Illinois Secretary of State/Department of Aging
Next Steps: 1. Reach out to Local DMV and Healthcare Providers: Coordinate to set dates, acquire educational materials, and arrange for medical staff or volunteers. 2. Secure Venue(s): Senior centers, libraries, or park district facilities for ease of access. 3. Plan the Safety Fair: Include informative talks, driving safety refresher courses, health screenings (eye, hearing, medication management), and Q&A sessions regarding new laws. 4. Publicize Widely: Work through senior centers, churches, and local media to ensure good attendance. 5. Fundraise/Provide Support: Seek sponsorships to cover costs of vision tests, printed handouts, or ride services for seniors who need transportation to the event.
These projects will address pressing needs—youth mobility/education and senior safety—while strengthening partnerships across sectors in Lake County and aligning with Rotary’s mission.
Based on the recent news and community updates from Lake County, particularly in Gurnee, Waukegan, and the surrounding region, here are two Rotary project or fundraising opportunities that align with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. “Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities” Nutrition and Wellness Initiative
Context:
Waukegan is facing budget considerations that may impact local services, particularly in light of the discussion regarding possibly replacing the state grocery tax and the potential $2 million loss in revenue. This situation could threaten access to fresh, healthy foods among vulnerable populations, especially children and seniors. Food insecurity is likely to rise if resources such as local food pantries and school nutrition programs are strained.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Waukegan Park District
- Local school districts (Waukegan, Gurnee)
- Lake County Health Department
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with local food assistance organizations and government officials to assess gaps and needs.
- Organize a fundraising campaign (e.g., a community walk, poker tournament at American Place Casino, or healthy cooking competition) to raise money for supplementing food pantries and supporting nutrition/health education programs in schools.
- Mobilize Rotary volunteers to assist with food drives, healthy meal kit assembly, or health screening events at community centers and schools.
- Offer educational workshops in partnership with local health experts on budgeting, nutrition, and food access.
2. “Youth Empowerment & Leadership” Mentoring and Scholarship Program
Context:
The article highlighting Mundelein’s Cutler Wyss—a high school football prospect who also acts as a role model—underscores the importance of positive youth mentorship. With ongoing challenges for young people post-pandemic, youth engagement, mentorship, and supporting educational opportunities are crucial in Lake County communities like Waukegan and Gurnee.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools (Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School)
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
- Mundelein High School’s athletics and leadership programs
- College of Lake County
- Local businesses (for internship/scholarship sponsorships)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to high schools and youth organizations to identify students in need of mentorship or support, and those who can serve as peer mentors.
- Develop a scholarship or micro-grant program for students who demonstrate leadership, character, or need financial support for further education/training.
- Organize career days or leadership workshops (potentially leveraging spaces at local schools or American Place Casino’s event rooms) featuring local role models and business leaders.
- Host fundraising events such as a youth talent show, sports tournament, or gala dinner to support scholarships and youth programs.
Both initiatives address clear, recent community needs and align with Rotary’s focus on community health, education, and youth.
Project 1: Lake County Literacy Champions – Youth Spelling, Reading, & STEM Empowerment
Context:
Lake County’s Visharad Sathish, a seventh grader, recently won the regional spelling bee and will represent the area at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. His accomplishment highlights the strong interest in literacy and academic achievement among local youth. With 73 schools participating and hundreds of students involved, there is clear enthusiasm and need to support ongoing literacy efforts throughout Gurnee, Waukegan, and the greater Lake County area. Rotary’s global area of focus on basic education and literacy aligns directly with this need.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (contact: Michael Karner, Regional Superintendent)
- Local school districts (Gurnee School District 56, Waukegan Public Schools)
- Public libraries (Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library)
- Organizations such as the Illinois Reading Council
Next Steps:
1. Contact the Lake County Regional Office of Education to congratulate Visharad Sathish and discuss ideas for supporting literacy, such as sponsorship for county-wide spelling bees, donating books, or organizing literacy workshops.
2. Coordinate with local schools and libraries to identify gaps in after-school reading programs, spelling training, or STEM/STEAM activities.
3. Develop a Rotary-sponsored “Literacy Champions” program—including scholarships for spelling bee winners, volunteer tutoring, and resource donations for underfunded classrooms.
4. Plan a fundraising event (e.g., a Spelling Bee Gala or Read-a-thon) to support program costs and raise community awareness about youth literacy and education initiatives.
Project 2: Healthy Communities Initiative – Casino Impact Mitigation & Wellness Outreach in Waukegan
Context:
The opening of the new poker room at the Waukegan casino presents economic prospects but also potential challenges related to community health, financial literacy, and responsible gaming. With city officials considering changes to the state grocery tax and casinos drawing increased traffic, Rotary can play a proactive role in supporting public health and financial wellness—especially for youth and vulnerable populations, in line with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and community health.
Potential Partners:
- City of Waukegan (Mayor Ann Taylor's office)
- Lake County Health Department
- Oasis Health and Wellness Center
- Local nonprofits (A Safe Place Lake County, Nicasa Behavioral Health Services)
- Waukegan Public Schools’ health educators
Next Steps:
1. Reach out to the City of Waukegan and Lake County Health Department to discuss potential risks and opportunities related to the casino’s expansion, such as increased gambling harms or nutrition challenges if the grocery tax is changed.
2. Partner with local health/wellness providers and schools to create educational workshops on responsible gaming, financial management, and nutrition for families.
3. Launch a Rotary “Healthy Communities” campaign—organize free wellness fairs, host speakers on safe gaming and mental health, and distribute resource guides about addiction prevention and nutrition.
4. Plan a fundraising night at the casino with a responsible gaming theme, using proceeds to support substance abuse prevention and healthy youth programs in Waukegan and neighboring communities.
1. Food Security Drive Supporting Local Pantries
Context:
Recent reports highlight that Chicago-area food pantries, including those in Grayslake and Lake County, have experienced a significant spike in visits over the past year, reflecting rising food insecurity in the region. This aligns with Rotary's focus on community health and fighting hunger.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank: Regional food distribution network aiding local pantries.
- Local Food Pantries: Notably Warren Township Food Pantry, COOL Ministries, and others serving Waukegan, Gurnee, and Grayslake.
- Local Businesses: Ray Auto Group (recent successful fundraiser for USO) for sponsorship/matching gifts.
- Schools and Youth Organizations: Partner with local high schools (e.g., Grayslake Central) and youth clubs to mobilize volunteers and create awareness.
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Northern Illinois Food Bank and local pantries for priority needs and partnership.
- Organize a community-wide food and fundraising drive, leveraging Rotary’s network and local business sponsorship.
- Involve schools for sorting, packaging, and distributing collected goods; consider creating friendly competitions to maximize engagement.
- Share success stories and needs with local media (e.g., Patch) to raise awareness and encourage ongoing support.
2. Supporting Community Wellness and Breast Cancer Awareness
Context:
A recent Grayslake news item reported a local breast cancer patient being honored at a Chicago Bears game, highlighting the importance of cancer support in the community. Health and education around cancer prevention and early detection remain vital, especially for underserved populations in Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Advocate Condell Medical Center (Libertyville) and local clinics for medical expertise and access to patients.
- Non-Profits like the Grayslake Woman's Non-Profit (famous for their holiday outreach to sick patients), Gurnee Park District, and Waukegan Park District for venue support.
- Schools and Youth Groups: For educational event engagement and helping to disseminate information.
- Bears Care or similar local sports charities: For visibility and fundraising collaboration.
Next Steps:
- Consult with local healthcare providers and non-profits to determine gaps in support, such as meal deliveries, transportation to treatment, mental health, or education.
- Organize a wellness fair in partnership with local hospitals, featuring free breast cancer screenings, educational talks, and wellness resources.
- Launch a fundraising campaign (e.g., “Pink October” events) to support transportation or wellness kits for local cancer patients.
- Recruit Rotary and local youth volunteers for event logistics, distribution, and awareness campaigns, ensuring broad community involvement.
1. Community Health Initiative: Free Health Screenings & Healthy Living Education at Waukegan Harbor Waterfront Market
Context:
The recurring Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina brings together hundreds of residents and families, drawing a diverse crowd from Waukegan, Gurnee, and surrounding Lake County communities. Waukegan and neighboring areas have reported ongoing challenges with access to preventive healthcare, elevated rates of diabetes and hypertension, and health disparities, particularly among low-income families and seniors. Community health aligns directly with Rotary’s focus on “Disease Prevention and Treatment.”
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department (Public Health Partnership) - Vista Health System, Advocate Aurora, or NorthShore hospitals (health professionals, nurses, resources) - Northern Illinois Food Bank (integrate healthy eating information) - Local YMCA or fitness centers (activity and exercise demos) - Existing Waterfront Market organizers for logistical support
Next Steps: - Reach out to Waterfront Market organizers to reserve space and collaborate on promotion. - Engage the Lake County Health Department and area hospitals to secure medical professionals and arrange for basic screenings (blood pressure, glucose, BMI, etc.). - Organize Rotarians and Interact/Rotaract youth volunteers for event staffing, translation (Spanish preferred), and educational outreach. - Develop and print culturally relevant educational materials about preventive health, local clinics, and wellness programs. - Set a date, coordinate with market calendar, and promote via Rotary, partner, and Patch event channels.
2. Youth Literacy & Family Engagement: Pop-Up Storytime and Free Book Distribution at Grayslake Area Public Library Escape Room Event
Context:
The Grayslake Area Public Library is hosting creative “Escape Into Adventure: Escape Room” events, attracting families and children. Literacy gaps persist across Lake County, especially affecting younger children and ESL families. Rotary’s focus on “Basic Education and Literacy” makes this an ideal opportunity to further enrich these events by promoting reading and family engagement.
Potential Partners: - Grayslake Area Public Library (host and outreach) - Bernie’s Book Bank (nonprofit book supplier) - United Way of Lake County—Success By 6 (literacy initiative) - Local schools and PTAs (promotion, participation) - Interact Clubs (youth volunteers as storytellers or helpers)
Next Steps: - Collaborate with the Grayslake Area Public Library to add a Rotary-sponsored pop-up storytime and free book table during their Escape Room event dates. - Coordinate with Bernie’s Book Bank to secure a selection of diverse, age-appropriate, and bilingual books for children and families. - Recruit club members and Interact students to serve as storytellers and activity leaders, making reading interactive and fun. - Prepare culturally relevant take-home literacy kits (books, bookmarks, activity sheets). - Promote through library, Rotary, and local school communications; gather feedback to assess interest in recurring collaborations.
These projects directly respond to current events and community interests in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Grayslake, while aligning with Rotary’s commitment to health, education, and youth development.
Certainly! Based on the recent news and community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising project ideas that align with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Youth Mental Health Support & Awareness Campaign
Context:
Recent news highlights OMNI’s mental health support services for youth and families in Vernon Township—a neighboring area in Lake County—indicating both regional recognition and a growing need. With increasing mental health challenges among youth post-pandemic, and with OMNI’s programming serving as a model, Lake County could benefit from increased coordination, funding, and awareness around youth mental health support.
Potential Partners: - OMNI Youth Services (existing provider with strong local ties) - Local school districts (Waukegan, Gurnee, Lake Forest High School) - Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board - NorthShore University HealthSystem and other area hospitals
Next Steps: - Convene a planning meeting with OMNI and local school counselors to identify the most urgent needs. - Organize a community-wide “Mental Health Awareness Fest” or speaker series at a local school, featuring mental health professionals, youth testimonials, and wellness activities. - Fundraise through a Rotary-hosted walk-a-thon or silent auction, with proceeds supporting new counseling or peer-support groups in partnership with OMNI. - Promote and destigmatize mental health conversations through social media, student clubs, and parent workshops.
2. Community Environmental & Health Improvement Initiative: Mosquito Abatement and Education
Context:
News reports confirm that Lake Bluff is spraying for mosquitoes as West Nile Virus activity peaks, signaling ongoing community health risks related to vector-borne illness. Proactive outreach, prevention efforts, and education can have an important public health impact across Lake County.
Potential Partners: - North Shore Mosquito Abatement District - Lake County Health Department - Local park districts and schools (for events or educational activities) - Environmental science students and clubs
Next Steps: - Organize a “Mosquito Control & Healthy Yards Day” with educational workshops for families about safe mosquito reduction practices—emphasizing the removal of standing water and environmentally friendly repellents. - Launch a Rotary-sponsored “Adopt-a-Yard” program: volunteers help elderly or disabled neighbors with yard clean-up to reduce mosquito breeding sites. - Fundraise for the purchase and distribution of free mosquito repellent, larvicide dunks, or window screens to at-risk residents. - Collaborate with schools for art/poster contests on West Nile prevention, spreading educational messages throughout the community.
Both opportunities engage key Rotary concerns—youth development, health, and environmental sustainability—and respond directly to recent local developments highlighted in community news.
1. Mental Health & Youth Wellness Initiative
Context:
Recent tragic events, including the death of Navy recruit Kayshawn Wilkerson at Great Lakes Naval Station (Libertyville News, Aug 8), highlight a pressing need for mental health awareness and suicide prevention resources among youth and young adults in Lake County. Additionally, the high achievement environment in communities like Libertyville and D128 Schools (which rank among the top 25 high schools nationwide) can contribute to student stress, yet positive attention, wellness, and support resources are not always equally visible or accessible.
Potential Partners: - Local School Districts (D128, Waukegan District 60, Gurnee District 56) - Lake County Health Department - Family Service of Lake County (mental health support) - NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness) - Youth and Outreach groups at Great Lakes Naval Station
Next Steps: 1. Convene a roundtable with school counselors, the Lake County Health Department, NAMI, and youth leaders to discuss gaps in mental health resources and ways Rotary can assist. 2. Develop a youth-led campaign to promote mental health awareness, including a speaker series or wellness fair at local high schools and Great Lakes Naval Station. 3. Seek Rotary District or Global Grant support for mental health training for school staff, peer leaders, and military personnel. 4. Organize a community fundraiser (such as a wellness walk or art auction) to support suicide prevention and youth mental health initiatives, with proceeds benefiting community partners.
2. Access to Nature & Environmental Education Expansion
Context:
The Lake County Forest Preserves’ 27th annual Hike Lake County program encourages people of all ages to engage with nature, but many youth—particularly from underserved communities in Waukegan and Gurnee—lack consistent access to environmental programming and transportation to natural sites. With growing concerns for both community health and environmental literacy, Rotary can promote equitable access and stewardship by supporting field trips, environmental education, and youth nature clubs.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Forest Preserves - Waukegan Park District - Boys & Girls Club of Lake County - Lake County Public Schools - Local bus companies or sponsors for transportation - Local businesses for event support
Next Steps: 1. Meet with staff from the Lake County Forest Preserves and Boys & Girls Club to identify barriers for underserved youth to participate in programs like Hike Lake County. 2. Develop a Rotary-sponsored “Access to Nature” initiative: fundraising for transportation, equipment (hiking boots, rain gear), and support for environmental educators in schools. 3. Host a family-friendly environmental fair or “Rotary in the Forest” day with educational booths, stewardship projects (trash cleanups, tree plantings), and healthy outdoor activities. 4. Pursue Rotary grant funding and corporate sponsorships while publicizing the program through local schools, social media, and community partners.
Both project ideas are sustainable, address real-time community health and youth needs, and directly reflect Rotary’s focus on health, education, environment, and supporting youth in Lake County.