Based on the recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and the broader Lake County, IL area, the following two Rotary service or fundraising project ideas directly align with Rotary’s areas of focus, current community needs, and recent events:
1. "Tools for Schools": Addressing the High Cost of Back-to-School Supplies
Rotary Area of Focus: Basic Education and Literacy; Supporting Families & Children
Context:
A recent letter to the editor expressed concern about the increasing costs families face with school starting earlier each August. The financial stress of back-to-school shopping has become a burden for many parents in Lake County, potentially impacting students’ ability to be prepared for the school year.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Gurnee School District 56)
- Churches and community resource centers (e.g., COOL Ministries in Waukegan, Warren Township Youth Services)
- Local businesses (Target, Walmart, Staples) for in-kind donations
- Other service organizations (Lions Club, United Way of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Convene a committee to connect with school social workers to identify priority needs.
- Launch a donation drive (“Tools for Schools”) collecting school supplies, backpacks, and monetary contributions.
- Organize a back-to-school fair in partnership with school districts or community centers in late July 2026, offering supplies, health screenings, and family resources.
- Seek matching grants through Rotary International for additional impact.
- Publicize the event to maximize participation and community awareness.
2. "Lake County Fresh for All": Supporting Community Health and Nutrition
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health; Supporting the Environment; Disease Prevention and Treatment
Context:
With a focus in the news on summer recipes featuring fresh produce (corn, tomatoes, peaches), and knowing that food insecurity and access to healthy foods are ongoing issues in parts of Waukegan and Gurnee, there is an opportunity to promote both nutrition and local agriculture.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local farmers markets (Waukegan Downtown Farmers Market, Gurnee Park District events)
- Lake County Health Department
- Community gardens (e.g., Warren-Newport Public Library Community Garden)
- Area chefs (inviting local chefs or nutritionists to offer demonstrations)
Next Steps:
- Partner with food banks and farmers to organize fresh produce distribution in targeted neighborhoods, especially before the school year starts.
- Host cooking demonstrations during farmers markets or at public libraries, teaching families easy, healthy recipes using local, seasonal produce.
- Arrange for volunteers to help with home gardeners or community gardens, encouraging “grow an extra row” initiatives for food bank donations.
- Apply for Rotary district or global grants if expanding to nutrition education, health screenings, or urban agriculture training.
By focusing on these two projects—one supporting educational access and the other improving community nutrition and health—the Rotary Club can make a measurable difference in Lake County and align with Rotary’s core mission.
1. Mosquito-Borne Disease Prevention Initiative
Rotary Area of Focus: Disease Prevention and Community Health
Context:
Recent news (“Column: Lake County Board takes a swat at mosquito district”) highlights ongoing efforts and community concerns regarding the Lake County Mosquito Abatement District’s activities. The prevalence of mosquitoes and the district’s control efforts, including larviciding and spraying, are particularly relevant given rising concerns over mosquito-borne illnesses (e.g., West Nile Virus). Residents may be unaware of personal protection methods or ways to reduce breeding sites at home, and marginalized neighborhoods are often at higher risk.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Mosquito Abatement District
- Lake County Health Department
- Local schools and neighborhood associations
- Homeowners alliances
Next Steps:
- Meet with district and health officials to identify highest-risk neighborhoods.
- Develop and distribute educational packets (multilingual as needed) about eliminating standing water, using repellents, and identifying disease symptoms.
- Coordinate neighborhood cleanup days focused on removing potential water collection/breeding sites.
- Host informational events at community centers, schools, and summer festivals, providing free mosquito repellent and basic health screenings.
- Initiate a fundraiser (e.g., community fun run or family festival) to purchase and distribute cost-effective mosquito prevention kits to vulnerable households.
2. Youth International Exchange Enhancement and Local Culture Week
Rotary Area of Focus: Youth, Education, and Peacebuilding
Context:
A recent visit by Japanese exchange students to Waukegan through a ‘sister city’ program illustrates a strong foundation for international understanding. These exchanges, however, often engage only a small number of youth and miss opportunities for broader community impact and more inclusive youth participation—especially among less privileged students in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding areas.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Sister Cities Committee
- Local high schools and community colleges
- Japanese cultural organizations in Chicagoland
- Waukegan Public Library, Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Meet with sister city program coordinators and area educators to identify opportunities for expanding exchanges and scholarships, particularly for underrepresented students.
- Develop an annual “Lake County Culture Week” involving visiting and local students working together on community service, cultural presentations, and language workshops.
- Secure sponsorships and Rotary club support to underwrite student participation fees, travel, or host family stipends.
- Publicize opportunities for community members to get involved—hosting, volunteering, attending cross-cultural events, or providing resources.
- Launch a fundraising dinner and silent auction featuring multicultural performances, with proceeds supporting student exchange scholarships and program sustainability.
Certainly! Based on recent news from Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, and the identified needs and achievements in the community, here are two service or fundraising opportunities for Rotary that align with Rotary’s areas of focus such as education, youth, and community health:
1. Literacy & Youth Achievement Support: Spelling Bee Champions Program
Context:
Lake County’s Visharad Sathish, a 12-year-old, won the regional spelling bee after a rigorous 45-round competition and will represent the county at the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This achievement highlights the level of academic talent and dedication present among local youth, as well as the broad participation (73 schools and hundreds of students).
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts and PTAs
- Libraries (e.g., Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee)
- Local businesses for sponsorships
- Media outlets (Lake County News-Sun)
Next Steps:
- Launch an annual “Spelling Bee Champions” fundraiser dinner or awards night, inviting recent competitors, their families, educators, and community stakeholders. Proceeds could support literacy initiatives, competition entry fees, and scholarships for underserved students.
- Create a mentorship program, pairing spelling bee alumni with younger students interested in literacy and academic competitions.
- Sponsor travel and preparatory expenses for county and regional winners heading to state or national competitions, easing financial barriers for families.
- Work with partner organizations to run workshops at local libraries, focusing on vocabulary, public speaking, and confidence-building for youth.
2. Youth Exchange & Cultural Awareness Enhancement
Context:
Recent news mentions Japanese students visiting Waukegan as part of a “sister city” exchange, with the goal to “open their eyes to the world.” These programs foster international understanding, global citizenship, and leadership skills for local and visiting youth, aligning with Rotary's focus on youth services and peacebuilding.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Sister Cities International Committee
- Waukegan Public Schools and other district international clubs
- Local businesses with global ties
- Rotary Youth Exchange program
- Cultural and arts organizations (e.g., Jack Benny Center for the Arts)
Next Steps:
- Organize joint cultural events during exchange weeks, such as international dinner nights, collaborative art workshops, or youth forums on global issues, sponsored and facilitated by Rotary.
- Develop a Rotary Host Family Scholarship Fund to reduce participation costs and enable less-privileged families to host or send their children abroad.
- Publicize and promote the Rotary Youth Exchange program among middle and high schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County to encourage diversity in participation.
- Convene a roundtable with sister city committees, school officials, and recent exchange student alumni to identify support gaps—then fundraise or apply for Rotary grants to meet those needs (e.g., travel stipends, translation services, uniforms).
Both opportunities leverage recent news and momentum in Lake County, align with Rotary’s areas of focus, and create lasting benefits for youth, their families, and the broader community.
Context:
Recently, "Dead fish wash up in Grayslake's Valley Lake" was reported, indicating an environmental issue possibly linked to water quality, pollution, or harmful algal blooms. This affects local wildlife, community recreation, and points to a need for environmental stewardship and education.
Potential Partners:
- Village of Grayslake Environmental Commission
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Sierra Club Lake County Chapter
- Lakes Management Association
- Local schools’ environmental clubs (e.g., Grayslake Central and North High Schools)
Next Steps: 1. Connect with local environmental authorities (e.g., Village of Grayslake, Lakes Management Association) to understand the causes and scope of the Valley Lake incident. 2. Organize a community lake clean-up and restoration day with local environmental partners, students, and residents—potentially host water testing demonstrations, education booths, and distribute information on preventing runoff and pollution. 3. Fundraise for water testing kits, native plantings along the shoreline, or signage to educate visitors about protecting lake health. 4. Publicize the event through Patch, social media, and at the Grayslake Farmers Market to maximize outreach. 5. Follow-up by advocating for or supporting long-term water quality monitoring, building Rotary’s role as a steward for Lake County’s vital natural resources.
Context:
"Chicago-Area Food Pantries See Spike In Visits Over Past Year" points to a growing need for food assistance in the region, including Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding Lake County communities. With many families continuing to struggle, expanding food access is a critical need.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Cool Ministries (Waukegan-based food pantry)
- Staben House Family Resource Center (Waukegan)
- Local grocery stores or farmers (e.g., through Grayslake Farmers Market)
- Local faith congregations
Next Steps: 1. Reach out to Cool Ministries, Staben House, and Northern Illinois Food Bank to determine current resource gaps and most needed items (e.g., shelf-stable food, fresh produce, hygiene kits). 2. Plan a Rotary-led food and fund drive at high-visibility local events, such as the Grayslake Farmers Market, Black Lung Brewing’s new taproom opening, or community festivals. 3. Partner with local businesses and churches for collection bins and to match donations. 4. Recruit volunteers for delivery, sorting, or meal-packing shifts. 5. Offer nutrition education sessions, possibly in partnership with Lake County Health Department, at pantries or via local schools, helping families maximize healthy food options. 6. Evaluate impact and plan regular drives or support for ongoing sustainability.
These projects directly address Rotary’s areas of focus by tackling urgent environmental concerns and persistent community health needs in Lake County, providing opportunities for meaningful local engagement and impact.
1. Rotary Community Resource & Volunteer Collaboration Fair
Context:
On September 10, the Grayslake campus of the College of Lake County is hosting a "Community Cares Resource Fair & Volunteer Recruitment Event." This is an excellent opportunity to address community needs connected to education, workforce development, health, and youth services—directly aligning with Rotary's areas of focus.
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (host and connector to students seeking service hours and work experience)
- Local nonprofits exhibiting at the fair (e.g., food pantries, youth mentoring organizations, health clinics)
- Grayslake, Waukegan, and Lake County school districts
- Service-oriented student clubs (Key Club, Interact, NHS)
Next Steps:
1. Register for a Rotary informational table at the Resource Fair. Prepare engaging displays and handouts explaining Rotary’s scholarships, youth programs, and current service projects.
2. Recruit Rotary volunteers to staff the table and, if possible, schedule a mini-presentation or Q&A session during the event.
3. Proactively network with non-profit exhibitors to form partnerships for joint service days and cooperative drives (e.g., book drives, hygiene kits, or mentorship pairings for high-need youth).
4. Follow up post-event by inviting interested students and community members to attend upcoming Rotary meetings, and schedule planning sessions with partner organizations for joint initiatives.
5. Publicize all collaborative outcomes and volunteer opportunities to build broader community awareness.
2. Waterfront Environmental Restoration & Education Event at Waukegan Harbor
Context:
Waukegan’s Waterfront Market (September 26 at the Harbor and Marina) enables direct engagement with the community in an area with ongoing environmental and economic revitalization efforts. This is an ideal opportunity to merge Rotary’s environmental sustainability focus with hands-on action and public education.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Harbor & Marina
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Friends of the Forest Preserves, Lake County Audubon, Illinois Extension)
- Waukegan Park District
- Local schools and youth groups (Scout troops, Waukegan High School Environmental Club)
Next Steps:
1. Contact market organizers to collaborate on a “Rotary Clean Water & Harbor Day” adjacent to the market, including harborfront cleanup, invasive species removal, or stormwater education.
2. Develop and distribute educational materials about water conservation, microplastic pollution, and citizen science water quality monitoring.
3. Organize a visible Rotary “service in action” station—where attendees can participate in shoreline clean-up, plant native pollinator plants, or engage in youth learning activities.
4. Recruit student and community volunteers—possibly offering community service credit or drawing from groups met at the Resource Fair.
5. Document the event for local media and Rotary publications, reinforcing Rotary’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community partnerships.
These timely, locally-rooted initiatives both address specific Lake County needs and advance Rotary’s mission with high local impact and visibility.
Certainly! Based on current news and ongoing community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that closely align with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Youth & Education Support: Enhancing Mental Health Resources in Schools
Context:
News reports highlight OMNI Youth Services receiving grants for mental health support in Vernon Township, and a Winnetka teacher’s recognition for creating inclusive classroom spaces. With mental health challenges continuing to rise among local youth and increased awareness in neighboring communities, there’s an urgent need to bolster support services and resilience-building programs in Lake County schools, including Gurnee and Waukegan.
Potential Partners: - OMNI Youth Services (existing mental health grant recipient) - Lake County schools and school districts - Mental health organizations (e.g., Lake County Health Department Behavioral Services) - Local Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs)
Next Steps: - Convene a meeting with OMNI Youth Services and local school administrators to identify gaps in mental health resources or programming. - Plan a fundraising initiative to sponsor on-site mental health workshops, peer support training, and access to licensed counselors for students. - Engage school PTAs in event planning and promotion. - Invite local businesses (such as Waukegan Tire) to sponsor workshops or provide matching donations. - Publicize the initiative via newsletters, school bulletins, and local media. - Evaluate project impact through student/parent feedback and follow-up metrics from mental health professionals.
2. Community Health & Environment: Mosquito Abatement and Public Awareness Campaign
Context:
A recent article noted Lake Bluff is actively spraying to address seasonal peaks in West Nile virus activity—a recurring threat for Lake County, especially in late summer and early fall. Public awareness, personal protection, and environmental mitigation are all vital to reducing risk, especially for seniors and young families.
Potential Partners: - North Shore Mosquito Abatement District - Lake County Health Department - Municipal Parks & Recreation Departments in Gurnee and Waukegan - Community centers, senior centers, and youth groups
Next Steps: - Coordinate an educational outreach campaign with Mosquito Abatement officials to distribute information about mosquito prevention (e.g., eliminating standing water, using repellents, and window screens). - Organize volunteer teams for neighborhood “clean-up days” to remove potential mosquito breeding grounds—aligning with Rotary’s environment focus. - Host free community health events to distribute insect repellent and demonstrations on protective clothing, targeting vulnerable populations. - Launch a social media and local press campaign, leveraging Rotary networks to increase reach. - Evaluate success by surveying resident awareness post-campaign and working with the health department to monitor reported West Nile activity reductions.
Context:
Following a recent incident involving a lewd act near a Libertyville school and the pretrial release of the suspect, there is community concern for youth safety, mental health, trauma response, and overall well-being. With the start of the school year and community attention on these issues, there’s a timely opportunity to offer supportive, preventative, and healing resources for families, educators, and students in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County. Rotary’s focus on community health and youth aligns directly with this need.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department (Behavioral Health Division)
- Local school districts (e.g., Libertyville D70, D128, Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee D56)
- Illinois Safe Schools Alliance
- Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center, Gurnee
- Local parent-teacher associations (PTAs)
Next Steps:
- Meet with school representatives and local law enforcement to identify immediate community needs and gaps in trauma resources.
- Coordinate with behavioral health professionals and organizations like the Zacharias Center for workshop topics (e.g., trauma-informed care, youth safety, mental health first aid, recognizing/reporting unsafe behaviors).
- Plan a service event series: host free workshops/panels for parents, educators, and students (both in English and Spanish).
- Leverage Rotary volunteers for organization, logistics, and event facilitation.
- Apply for a Rotary District Community Grant to support materials, professional speakers, and refreshments.
- Promote the events via school channels and Rotary communication platforms.
Context:
The Lake County Forest Preserves’ 27th annual Hike Lake County program is underway, encouraging residents to enjoy the outdoors and complete scenic walks. With increasing interest in wellness, environmental stewardship, and family-friendly outdoor activities—especially post-pandemic—there’s momentum for Rotary to enhance and expand this initiative. This aligns with Rotary’s focus areas of the environment, wellness, and youth development.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Local businesses (outdoor gear shops, coffee shops, health providers)
- Scouting groups (referencing regional events like the Good Scout Award Dinner)
- Local artists (especially from Libertyville, recently featured in regional art festivals) for nature-inspired art workshops
- Local media (Patch, local newsletters)
Next Steps:
- Meet with Lake County Forest Preserves staff to discuss opportunities for Rotary to sponsor or co-host special themed hikes (focusing on environmental education, fitness, and community-building).
- Organize guided wellness hikes for families, students, and seniors, potentially including “plogging” (trash pickup while jogging/hiking), birdwatching, or nature photography sessions.
- Collaborate with local artists to offer art-in-nature activities along hiking trails.
- Develop a fundraising component by inviting donations or suggesting corporate sponsorship, with proceeds supporting environmental education in local schools.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers as hike leaders, cleanup coordinators, and event promoters.
- Publicize these special hikes in coordination with forest preserves and local media.
Both of these projects address urgent and ongoing community needs while strengthening Rotary’s presence, mission, and partnerships in the Lake County region.