Certainly! Based on current issues and community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, and considering Rotary’s areas of focus, here are two service or fundraising opportunities well-matched to the region:
1. Youth Mental Health Support Initiative
Context:
Over the past year, Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, has seen a surge in concerns about youth mental health, with local schools reporting higher incidents of anxiety, depression, and related challenges among students. National and statewide media have also spotlighted the growing mental health crisis affecting Illinois youth. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on community health and supporting children and youth.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Waukegan Public Schools District 60 & Gurnee School District 56
- NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Youth & Family Counseling in Libertyville
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with local school administrations and the Lake County Health Department to identify specific needs and potential Rotary involvement.
- Plan and sponsor workshops focused on mental wellness, coping strategies, and suicide prevention.
- Organize a fundraising event or awareness walk, engaging the community and local businesses to support the cause and fund free counseling sessions or resource materials for students.
- Recruit volunteers among Rotarians for mentorship or peer-support initiatives in area schools.
2. Lake Michigan Waterway & Park Clean-Up Campaign
Context:
Environmental issues persist as a local concern, especially in Waukegan with its shoreline, parks, and conservation areas occasionally cited for illegal dumping and pollution. Summer events and increased recreation also heighten the risk of waste accumulation. Environmental stewardship is a core Rotary area of focus.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District & Gurnee Park District
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Alliance for the Great Lakes (supports Adopt-a-Beach programs)
- Local youth volunteer groups (e.g., Key Clubs, Scouts)
Next Steps: - Coordinate with Waukegan and Gurnee Park District officials to identify high-need locations and ideal times for large-scale clean-ups. - Register with Alliance for the Great Lakes to adopt a beach or park area and set a recurring clean-up schedule. - Promote the event at schools and through local media, inviting families and youth, and providing community service hours or educational talks about conservation. - Seek sponsorship or donations of supplies (gloves, trash bags, safety gear) from area retailers and businesses. - Document and publicize results to encourage ongoing stewardship and recruit new partners.
These projects address urgent and high-visibility needs in Lake County and can leverage Rotary’s reputation for meaningful, high-impact service.
1. Lake Michigan Environmental Health Initiative
Context:
Recent news highlights ongoing efforts to improve Waukegan’s North Beach with a $1.5 million project and notes persistent issues with bacteria causing widespread beach closures around the Great Lakes. This points to urgent and ongoing community needs regarding water quality, environmental health, and public safety for residents who enjoy Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
Rotary Area of Focus:
Environment, Community Health
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District and City of Waukegan (as lead on North Beach project)
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Alliance for the Great Lakes, Lake County Stormwater Management Commission)
- Lake County Health Department
- Schools (for educational outreach)
Project Idea:
Organize a multi-faceted “Lake Michigan Health Day” including a volunteer-led beach cleanup, environmental education booths about bacteria safety and stormwater runoff, and water sampling demonstrations. Proceeds from a community walk/run or festival could be directed toward funding infrastructure or educational signage to prevent pollution.
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Waukegan Park District for coordination and timing
- Secure partnerships with local environmental groups for technical support and outreach
- Apply for local grants or seek Rotary District support
- Develop educational materials and recruit volunteers
- Promote the event broadly to attract participation
2. Youth Sports and Wellbeing Fundraiser in Support of Girls Volleyball
Context:
Lake County’s strong girls volleyball scene, with highlighted achievements such as Vernon Hills’ Kiersten Cieslinski becoming a Division I recruit and Libertyville’s team success, underscores local pride in youth athletics. However, not all teams and athletes have equitable access to equipment, coaching, and safe playing spaces.
Rotary Area of Focus:
Youth, Education, Community Health
Potential Partners:
- Local high school athletic programs (e.g., Vernon Hills, Libertyville, Warren Township)
- Lake County high school sports associations
- Small businesses and sports equipment suppliers
- Media (Lake County News-Sun for publicity)
Project Idea:
Launch an annual “Rotary Rally for Volleyball” tournament and youth mentorship day in Gurnee or Waukegan. Entry fees, community sponsorships, and a parallel skills clinic can raise funds for need-based athletic scholarships, upgraded uniforms/equipment, and wellness workshops (nutrition, sports psychology). Invite local volleyball stars as guest coaches and speakers.
Next Steps:
- Approach athletic directors at highlighted schools for needs assessment and buy-in
- Work with local sports clubs and parks departments for venue logistics
- Engage service clubs, family businesses, and newspapers for sponsorship and promotional support
- Recruit Rotary and community volunteers to manage the event
- Plan a pilot event for the upcoming season and measure impact for expansion
Based on the information provided and recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Youth Literacy Enhancement & Recognition Program (Education/Youth)
Context:
A Lake County seventh-grader, Visharad Sathish, recently won the local regional spelling bee and is headed to Washington, D.C. for the National Spelling Bee. This achievement highlights academic talent in the area and presents an opportunity to encourage literacy, language skills, and scholastic achievement among local youth.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Regional Office of Education - Local school districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County - Local libraries (e.g., Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library) - Businesses willing to sponsor youth programming - Media partners, such as the Lake County News-Sun
Next Steps: - Reach out to the Regional Office of Education and area schools to develop an annual youth literacy recognition event, inviting spelling bee participants and other young achievers. - Organize a scholarship fundraising dinner or spelling bee for adults, with proceeds going toward literacy programs or to support future academic competitors (e.g., travel fund for the National Spelling Bee). - Establish a Rotary-sponsored reading or spelling club at partner libraries or schools, offering mentorship and resources. - Partner with local businesses to provide prizes, books, or scholarships.
2. Waukegan North Beach Environmental Stewardship Initiative (Environment/Community Health)
Context:
Recent news points to ongoing improvements at Waukegan’s North Beach, making it “like a dream come true” for local stakeholders. With renewed interest and investment in the area, this is an ideal moment to support environmental sustainability and community health.
Potential Partners: - Waukegan Park District and City of Waukegan - Local environmental groups like the Lake County Forest Preserves and Alliance for the Great Lakes - Schools and youth groups for volunteer engagement - Local businesses for sponsorship and in-kind donations
Next Steps: - Coordinate with the city and parks department to identify specific environmental needs for North Beach, such as litter clean-ups, invasive species removal, and native plantings. - Develop and promote a Rotary "Adopt-a-Beach" season kickoff event, inviting families, youth, and community members for a clean-up, educational workshops (e.g., about lake ecology and pollution prevention), and fun activities. - Launch a fundraising campaign—potentially a run/walk or beach festival—to support ongoing beach maintenance or install educational signage. - Explore partnership opportunities with schools for STEM/environmental education field trips or curriculum enhancements connected to beach ecology.
Both opportunities align with Rotary’s commitment to empowering youth, supporting education, enhancing the environment, and strengthening community well-being in Lake County.
1. Community Environmental Health & Education: Valley Lake Restoration and Awareness Initiative
Context:
Recent reports noted "dead fish wash up in Grayslake's Valley Lake," raising concerns about local water quality, ecosystem health, and educating residents about lake stewardship. As environmental protection and education are core Rotary focus areas, this event highlights a need for intervention combining hands-on restoration with public awareness.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Grayslake Park District
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Friends of the Lake County Watersheds)
- Grayslake Central High School’s Science Club
- Village of Grayslake Environmental Committee
Next Steps:
- Contact the Lake County Forest Preserves and village officials for water testing reports and possible causes behind the fish kill.
- Organize a community Lake Clean-Up Day, inviting families, local schools, and civic leaders.
- Host an educational event featuring environmental experts, focusing on lake health, invasive species, and pollution prevention.
- Fundraise for lake signage explaining best practices for residents (fertilizer use, waste disposal).
- Invite sponsors like local breweries (e.g., Black Lung Brewing) and businesses for event support and donations, blending community health, environment, and local enterprise.
2. Community Health & Economic Support: Food Pantry Partnership and Awareness Drive
Context:
Chicago-area food pantries, including those in Lake County, are experiencing a spike in visits, indicating increased food insecurity. With families in Grayslake, Waukegan, and Gurnee needing support, Rotary can mobilize resources to address hunger—a key Rotary focus area.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Warren Township Food Pantry (Gurnee)
- Local schools and faith organizations
- Grayslake Woman's Non-Profit (noted for bringing hope to patients; possible collaborative spirit)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to local pantries and the Northern Illinois Food Bank to assess immediate needs (food, funding, volunteers).
- Organize a Rotary-led community food drive or “Pack a Pantry” campaign, incorporating schools and local businesses as donation sites.
- Host fundraising events at venues such as the new Black Lung Brewing taproom or during major community events listed in the Patch calendar.
- Launch a community awareness campaign about food insecurity, with stories of need and impact, using local media and Rotary networks.
- Explore establishing a monthly volunteer “Rotary Day of Service” supporting pantry operations, food distributions, and mentoring for youth at risk of hunger.
Based on the recent and upcoming events in Gurnee, Waukegan, and the broader Lake County/Grayslake area, as well as Rotary’s mission, here are two highly relevant Rotary service or fundraising projects:
1. Community Health and Resource Fair Enhancement (Aligns with: Disease Prevention & Community Health, Supporting Education)
Context:
The "Community Cares Resource Fair & Volunteer Recruitment Event," scheduled for September 10 at College of Lake County (19351 W Washington St, Grayslake), is a clear sign of ongoing regional efforts to connect residents to health, social, and educational services. Lake County communities, including Waukegan and Gurnee, demonstrate continued needs for accessible health resources, mental health support, and education on wellness—particularly for under-resourced populations.
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (organizer/venue)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local hospitals (e.g., Advocate Condell, Vista Medical Center East)
- Mental health nonprofits (e.g., Lake County Community Health Center)
- Township social services
- Gurnee/Waukegan/Grayslake area schools
Recommended Rotary Actions and Next Steps:
- Sponsor or co-host an expanded wellness booth at the Resource Fair, focusing on vital topics such as mental health support, diabetes screening, immunization education, access to nutritional resources, or dental hygiene.
- Recruit local health professionals as volunteer presenters and screeners.
- Promote the event via Rotary’s networks—helping to increase turnout and access for families who may benefit most.
- Consider providing translation services to reach non-English-speaking residents.
- Coordinate with fair organizers to identify gaps and offer to fundraise for necessary resources (e.g., transportation vouchers, health supplies, educational materials).
- Encourage club members to volunteer and build ongoing relationships with agencies present.
2. Youth Literacy and Family Engagement Initiative at Local Farmers & Library Events (Aligns with: Education & Literacy, Supporting Youth, Economic Development)
Context:
Upcoming Grayslake community events—including the "Grayslake Farmers Market" (August 27), "Hawthorn Morning Market Series" (September 6 & 20), and library-based programs ("Escape into Adventure: Escape Room" at Grayslake Area Public Library, September 20-21)—offer strong platforms for youth- and family-centered service initiatives. Many Lake County children may face summer and early fall learning gaps, while local families value safe, accessible enrichment opportunities.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Area Public Library
- Local schools and PTAs
- Village of Grayslake, Gurnee, Waukegan
- Farmers Market organizers
- Local youth-serving organizations (e.g., United Way of Lake County, Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Recommended Rotary Actions and Next Steps:
- Host a Rotary "Family Literacy Tent" or reading corners at Farmers Markets and Library events, distributing free children’s books, STEM kits, and bilingual literacy materials.
- Organize interactive storytime or learning activity sessions, possibly partnering with librarians or local teachers, to encourage family engagement.
- Collect donated books for children (with a fundraising drive if needed).
- Develop and promote a volunteer schedule for Rotarians to assist at key community events.
- Collaborate with local teachers or youth agencies to guide content and ensure impact (e.g., age-appropriate resources, alignment with school readiness needs).
- Publicize the initiative across Rotary and partner social media to maximize reach and attract volunteers/donations.
Both project ideas reflect Rotary’s core commitments by directly addressing current community health gaps, supporting youth and families, and leveraging large, well-attended local events for maximum impact. Immediate steps include reaching out to event organizers to secure partnership roles, rallying membership support, and publicizing Rotary involvement to draw further collaboration and resources.
1. Youth Mental Health Awareness and Support Initiative
Context:
Local coverage highlighted OMNI Youth Services as a recipient of Vernon Township’s Mental Health Board grants, showing a current focus on supporting kids, adults, and families coping with mental health challenges. This aligns with growing concerns nationwide, especially post-pandemic, about youth mental health. Rotary’s area of focus on disease prevention and treatment, and supporting youth, is directly applicable here. There is a clear local need for expanded mental health education, destigmatization, and access to resources for young people in Gurnee, Waukegan, and nearby Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- OMNI Youth Services (OMNI / OMNI Youth Services)
- Local school districts (District 60 - Waukegan, District 56 - Gurnee, District 115 - Lake Forest)
- Lake County Community Foundation
- Vernon Township Mental Health Board
Next Steps:
- Reach out to OMNI Youth Services and area school staff to assess their current programs, needs, and identify gaps Rotary can help fill (e.g., hosting speaker events, assembling and distributing mental health resource packs, or sponsoring youth mental health first aid training for students and staff).
- Convene a planning meeting with identified partners to coordinate a fall mental health awareness campaign or an educational workshop series for teens and parents in Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Raise funds through a community wellness walk/run or a themed dinner event with local businesses (such as Waukegan Tire as a sponsor), with proceeds supporting resources for school-based mental health programs.
2. Mosquito Abatement and Public Health Education Campaign
Context:
Lake Bluff is actively spraying for mosquitoes due to increased West Nile Virus activity, which typically peaks in late summer in Lake County. Mosquito-borne illnesses are a continuing concern, particularly as climate change may be increasing the risks and duration of the mosquito season. Rotary’s focus on disease prevention, community health, and environment makes this a strong fit. There is a need for more education about preventive measures (especially for the elderly and vulnerable), and possibly for distributing prevention supplies to low-income families.
Potential Partners:
- North Shore Mosquito Abatement District
- Lake County Health Department
- Local environmental groups and neighborhood associations
- Big box retailers or pharmacies for in-kind donations (e.g., Walgreens, Home Depot)
Next Steps:
- Contact the Lake County Health Department and North Shore Mosquito Abatement District to coordinate a community information session about mosquito safety and disease prevention.
- Organize a volunteer day to distribute mosquito repellent, larvicide “dunks,” and educational flyers in vulnerable neighborhoods in Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Apply for grants or solicit donations from local businesses for supplies, and engage youth (such as Scouts or Interact Clubs) in outreach and distribution, simultaneously teaching environmental responsibility.
- Evaluate possibility of a fundraising campaign to support families who need window screens and other protective resources, or to help senior residents with yard cleanup to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
1. Youth & Education: Mental Health and Personal Safety Workshops for Schools
Context:
Recent news of a man accused of performing a lewd act near a Libertyville school and other high-profile safety issues have raised concerns about child safety and mental health in local communities. At the same time, several area schools (notably D128 schools) have received national recognition for academic excellence, showing strong community engagement but also underscoring the need to protect and support students’ wellbeing.
Potential Partners:
- Community Consolidated School District 128 (D128)
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office or Libertyville Police Department
- Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center
- Lake County Health Department (for mental health resources)
Next Steps:
- Initiate a dialogue with school administrators (starting with D128 leadership) to assess needs and interest.
- Connect with local police and advocacy organizations to coordinate content about personal safety, cyber safety, and mental health awareness.
- Develop a program calendar for in-person workshops or virtual events.
- Promote workshops to parents through school channels and local news outlets.
- Seek volunteers within the Rotary to assist in event facilitation and follow-up resource provision.
2. Environment: Trail Cleanup & Nature Education as Part of “Hike Lake County”
Context:
The Lake County Forest Preserves has launched its 27th annual Hike Lake County program, which encourages residents to explore local forest preserves. Increased trail usage highlights both the need for environmental stewardship and opportunities for community education on protecting natural resources.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves District
- Local environmental nonprofits (such as Citizens for Conservation or Conserve Lake County)
- Scout groups, schools, and local businesses for volunteers and sponsorships
Next Steps:
- Contact the Lake County Forest Preserves volunteer coordinator to discuss partnership opportunities.
- Organize Rotary-led cleanup events at several preserves during the “Hike Lake County” season.
- Incorporate educational stations about invasive species, waste reduction, and local biodiversity during trail events.
- Publicize the effort with local media and encourage family participation for youth engagement.
- Identify opportunities to fundraise for kiosks, trail signage, or park benches dedicated to Rotary and partner contributions, deepening the long-term community impact.