Based on the provided news from August 27, 2025—and wider awareness of ongoing needs and trends in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, Illinois—here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Nutrition & Healthy Eating Education Initiative
(Aligned with Rotary’s focus: Disease prevention and treatment, Community health, Education)
Context:
Recent local news articles, such as Don Mauer’s discussion on gluten-free diet challenges and a feature on easy homemade ice cream, show a community interest and need for accessible, healthy food education. This is a reflection of broader concerns in Lake County around wellness, dietary considerations (e.g., gluten-free diets), and access to nourishing food choices for all ages.
Potential Partners:
- Local food pantries (e.g., Northern Illinois Food Bank, COOL Ministries in Waukegan)
- Lake County Health Department & Community Health Center
- Area schools and PTAs in Gurnee and Waukegan
- Local grocery stores (e.g., Mariano’s, Jewel-Osco) for healthy food donations or nutrition workshops
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with potential partners to assess interest and determine key educational topics (e.g., gluten-free cooking, healthy desserts, food budgeting).
- Plan a series of community workshops (“Healthy Cooking on a Budget,” “No-Churn Ice Cream for Healthy Kid Snacks,” “Understanding Food Allergies and Gluten-Free Living”).
- Develop fundraising initiatives such as a community healthy recipe cookbook, with proceeds supporting local food access programs.
- Engage local chefs or dietitians as volunteer instructors for workshops.
- Publicize events via schools and partner organizations.
2. Adult Literacy and English Language Support for Immigrants
(Aligned with Rotary’s focus: Basic education and literacy, Economic and community development, Support for marginalized populations)
Context:
Debra J. Saunders’ piece raises a key issue: support for the area’s immigrant and migrant populations, including English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) learning and basic literacy. Given Lake County’s diversity and the challenges these residents face navigating daily life (including job safety and access to services), there is a clear need for expanded adult literacy and language resources.
Potential Partners:
- Mano a Mano Family Resource Center (Round Lake Park, serving Latinx immigrants in Lake County)
- College of Lake County’s Adult Education and ESL program
- Local libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee)
- Centro de Información and other local advocacy and service groups
Next Steps:
- Contact partners to assess current programming and identify gaps (e.g., waitlists for ESL classes, lack of conversation clubs).
- Work with local Rotary volunteers to launch or sponsor literacy tutoring, ESL conversation circles, and workplace English workshops.
- Fundraise for books and digital learning resources with a local “Read-a-thon” or book drive, engaging schools and the broader community.
- Host a cultural exchange night bringing together immigrant and local families, with proceeds supporting ongoing workshops and scholarships for ESL classes.
- Publicize opportunities in multiple languages and at community gathering spaces.
These initiatives reflect both the news context and the deep, ongoing needs of Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, while advancing Rotary’s mission of service to people of all backgrounds.
1. Youth Health and Sports Engagement: Waukegan High School Athletic Support & Leadership Development
Context:
Recent local news spotlights the accomplishments and potential of student-athletes like Waukegan senior Oswaldo Lopez, a standout in soccer. Stories emphasize athletics' positive impacts and the importance of encouragement, indicating strong community support but also needs—many local youth face barriers to participation, including funding for equipment, nutrition, and leadership training.
Rotary Area of Focus: Disease Prevention and Treatment; Supporting Education; Growing Local Economies; Youth Development
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan High School and District 60 administration and coaches
- Local youth services organizations (such as Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Sports equipment retailers (Dick’s Sporting Goods, local soccer shops)
- Healthcare providers for nutrition and wellness education (e.g., NorthShore Health System)
Next Steps:
- Meet with District 60 and athletic departments to determine specific needs (scholarships, equipment, seminars, team-building activities)
- Launch a fundraising drive (such as a charity soccer match, 5K, or dinner event) with proceeds dedicated to athletic scholarships, equipment grants, or nutrition workshops
- Enlist local sports figures (like Oswaldo Lopez and coaches) to serve as ambassadors for leadership and healthy lifestyle clinics for younger students
- Partner with healthcare organizations to provide screening and wellness checks during events
- Promote mentorship, inviting Rotary Club members to engage with student-athletes on leadership and career pathways
2. Environmental and Heritage Conservation: Zion Potawatomi Trails Pow Wow Partnership
Context:
The recent Potawatomi Trails Pow Wow in Zion highlighted the preservation of Native American culture, teaching, and environmental stewardship—traditions that include honoring and caring for the land. With a growing population and development in Lake County (e.g., Ivanhoe Village), local green space, education on conservation, and cultural heritage are increasingly important.
Rotary Area of Focus: Supporting the Environment; Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention; Promoting Health; Supporting Education
Potential Partners:
- Zion-based Native American organizations and Pow Wow organizers
- Lake County Forest Preserves and environmental groups (Lake County Audubon, Openlands)
- Local schools and libraries for educational outreach
- The Waukegan, Gurnee, and Zion park districts
- Businesses with eco-conscious programs (REI, local gardening centers)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Pow Wow organizers to discuss a partnership for next year’s event (logistics, funding, and educational programming)
- Host a fundraiser/volunteer day centered around land restoration, native plantings, or a “learn from Native stewards” event, with proceeds supporting both the Pow Wow and environmental programming in local schools
- Collaborate with Lake County Forest Preserves for a native species planting in honor of Native American Heritage Month, inviting Rotary members, students, and the broader community
- Support indigenous-led environmental workshops, amplifying local voices and teaching all ages about conservation, health, and cultural respect
- Publicize these actions widely in partnership with local media to encourage broader involvement and educational impact
*1. Youth Literacy and Academic Excellence Initiative (Education and Youth)
Context:
Lake County’s recent success at the Regional Spelling Bee, with 12-year-old Visharad Sathish winning and advancing to the National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C., highlights strong youth achievement in academics and literacy. However, not all students in Gurnee, Waukegan, and other Lake County communities have equivalent access to resources and academic support. Rotary can leverage this moment to champion literacy, reading, and public speaking among youth, promoting equitable opportunities for enrichment and success.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee School District 56, Woodland School District 50)
- Local libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library)
- Youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
a. Reach out to the Lake County Regional Office of Education and local district literacy coordinators to identify gaps in literacy programming or resource needs (e.g., tutoring, books, after-school programs).
b. Organize a Rotary Spelling/Reading Festival celebrating participants like Visharad, featuring reading challenges, spelling contests for different age groups, and guest speakers. Use the event to raise funds for books and literacy materials for under-resourced schools.
c. Develop an ongoing literacy mentorship program where Rotarians or trained volunteers provide support, especially in schools with lower reading proficiency rates.
d. Seek sponsorships or donations from local businesses to provide dictionaries, study materials, or scholarships for academic competitions.
2. Pickleball for All: Community Health and Inclusion Project (Community Health & Inclusion)
Context:
The opening of Pickleball Kingdom in Waukegan signals momentum in promoting active lifestyles and community engagement. Pickleball is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, making it ideal for fostering health and social connection, especially for youth, seniors, and those who may feel excluded from traditional sports programs.
Potential Partners:
- Pickleball Kingdom of Waukegan
- Lake County Health Department
- Senior centers and retirement communities (e.g., Park Place Waukegan)
- Local youth groups and after-school programs
- Physical education teachers in area schools
Next Steps:
a. Collaborate with Pickleball Kingdom to launch a Rotary “Pickleball for All” clinic, offering free instructional sessions for youth, families, and seniors, particularly targeting those in under-served neighborhoods.
b. Organize a community Pickleball Tournament as an annual Rotary fundraiser—proceeds could support health education, access to sports equipment, and scholarships for athletic programs in local schools.
c. Work with the Health Department and schools to promote safe physical activity and educate about healthy lifestyles during the event, including health screenings and resource booths.
d. Publicize the event and program through local media, schools, and community organizations to boost participation and awareness.
Both projects align with Rotary’s focus on education, youth, and community health, and would leverage current local momentum and partnerships to address ongoing needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County.
1. Project: School Staff Appreciation & Support Initiative
Rotary Area of Focus: Education and Basic Community Needs
Context:
Recent news highlights efforts like “Crossing Guards, Custodians, Bus Drivers & Beyond — Who Makes Your School Awesome?!” recognizing unsung school staff. Amid ongoing staff shortages, budget constraints, and stress from the past few years, school operational staff (drivers, custodians, aides, cafeteria teams) in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County continue to face high demands but receive little appreciation or tangible support. These unsung heroes are vital to student well-being and safety.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (Gurnee’s Woodland, Waukegan CUSD 60, Grayslake D46/D127)
- Parent-Teacher Organizations
- Local businesses such as bakeries, florists, or restaurants (e.g., The Vine Grayslake)
- Village governments and community event organizers
- Media partners including Patch and local newspapers
Next Steps:
- Contact district administrators and PTOs to identify priority staff in need of appreciation or assistance.
- Develop a campaign around National School Support Staff Appreciation week (usually in March), or choose another locally appropriate date.
- Organize thank-you events (e.g., appreciation breakfasts, gift bag giveaways), or coordinate mini-grants for personal or classroom needs.
- Seek business donations (gift cards, meals, flowers) and engage volunteers for event staffing.
- Involve Rotary club members as guest speakers, mentors, or program facilitators.
- Publicize the initiative via local media (Patch, school newsletters) for community engagement and awareness.
2. Project: Lake County Mobile Food Pantry Outreach
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health & Basic Needs
Context:
According to recent coverage (“Chicago-Area Food Pantries See Spike In Visits Over Past Year”), food insecurity is a rising challenge in Lake County. The need is acute in Waukegan and Gurnee, especially affecting families with school-age children and seniors. Existing pantries are stretched thin and may lack mobile capacity to reach underserved neighborhoods.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank or local food pantries (e.g., Cool Ministries in Waukegan, Avon Township Food Pantry)
- Local faith-based organizations
- Municipal social service agencies
- Local business sponsors (grocery stores, Grayslake Farmers Market vendors)
- Local media for outreach and awareness
Next Steps:
- Connect with food banks and pantries to pinpoint service gaps or neighborhoods lacking regular food access.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers to staff pop-up or mobile pantries, or coordinate food drives at recurring events like farmers markets.
- Seek business and individual donations, or host fundraising events (possibly in partnership with new local businesses like Black Lung Brewing).
- Organize outreach in collaboration with school district social workers to identify families in need.
- Launch awareness campaigns in partnership with local news outlets and on social media to reduce stigma and maximize impact.
Both projects concretely address identified current local needs and align directly with Rotary’s focus on education, community health, and supporting children, families, and vulnerable populations.
1. Community Health & Resource Access: Rotary Support for the Community Cares Resource Fair & Volunteer Recruitment Event
Context:
A Community Cares Resource Fair & Volunteer Recruitment Event will take place at the College of Lake County (Grayslake Campus) on September 10. Such events typically bring together local agencies providing information and services related to healthcare, food security, social services, volunteer opportunities, and more. The large number of participants suggests a need for more resources, outreach, and support to underserved populations in Lake County (including Gurnee and Waukegan).
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (host)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local food pantries and shelters (such as PADS Lake County)
- United Way of Lake County
- Other service organizations present at the fair
Next Steps:
- Rotary Club members can staff an informational booth highlighting Rotary’s focus areas and membership opportunities, and distribute translated resources on health, literacy, and job training.
- Partner with the College of Lake County and service agencies to co-sponsor specific offerings (e.g., free flu shots, health screenings, or school supply giveaways).
- Fundraise for targeted needs (such as hygiene kits or transportation vouchers) in advance and distribute them at the fair.
- Begin outreach to fair organizers as soon as possible to discuss needs and available service gaps Rotary can help fill.
2. Environmental/Economic Development: Support for Waukegan Waterfront Market
Context:
The Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina, held on September 26, features local vendors and small businesses. Waukegan’s lakefront revitalization is a significant priority, supporting both environmental sustainability and economic opportunity for residents—two Rotary areas of focus. Local farmers markets also connect communities with fresh, healthy foods and can serve as a platform for youth engagement and health education.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Main Street and City of Waukegan
- Lake County Environmental Groups (e.g., Lake County Forest Preserves)
- Local community gardens and food cooperatives
- High school or college environmental clubs
Next Steps:
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored Clean Lake initiative in conjunction with the market—volunteers can help clean the shoreline and distribute educational materials about local environmental stewardship.
- Sponsor market “Healthy Living Days,” underwriting the costs of bringing in nutritionists, youth fitness activities, and/or organizing SNAP EBT sign-ups to promote fresh food access for lower-income families.
- Connect with market organizers and city officials to discuss ongoing partnerships, including Rotary banners at the event, youth engagement/internship programs, or a fundraising raffle for waterfront improvements.
- Coordinate with food access organizations to run a fresh food donation drive supporting local pantries.
These initiatives can raise Rotary’s profile in Lake County while addressing clear community needs in health, environment, and youth engagement.
1. Mental Health Awareness and Support Programs for Youth
Context:
Recent coverage highlights OMNI’s work as a Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board grant recipient, addressing mental health support for kids, adults, and families. In suburban Lake County communities (including Gurnee and Waukegan), increased awareness of adolescent mental health concerns (anxiety, depression, stress) is a widely reported need post-pandemic. Schools like Woodlands Academy are launching the new school year, presenting a timely opportunity for supportive initiatives.
Potential Partners:
- OMNI Youth Services
- Local school districts: Woodland CCSD 50, Waukegan CUSD 60, and Woodlands Academy
- Lake County Community Foundation
- School counselors and PTAs
Next Steps:
- Contact OMNI Youth Services to discuss partnership for co-hosting educational mental health workshops, wellness fairs, or support groups for students and families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding communities.
- Coordinate with local school administrators to identify needs and set dates for in-school or community center events.
- Seek funding or volunteers from Rotary and engage local healthcare professionals as speakers.
- Promote events through school newsletters and social media.
- Measure participation and gather feedback to improve future programs.
2. Environmental Education and Community Gardens Collaboration
Context:
A reported "Field-To-Fork Collaboration" at Elawa Farms in Lake Forest demonstrates interest in sustainable agriculture and local food sourcing. With food insecurity still impacting Waukegan and Lake County, and with landscaping businesses (e.g., J. Brick Paving & Landscaping) cited as community assets, there is momentum for hands-on environmental education, healthy food access, and beautification projects.
Potential Partners:
- Elawa Farms Foundation
- Local environmental nonprofits or garden clubs
- Waukegan Park District and libraries
- J. Brick Paving & Landscaping
- Schools seeking STEM/environmental enrichment
Next Steps:
- Meet with Elawa Farms and local schools to explore expanding youth-oriented community gardening and food literacy programs into Gurnee and Waukegan.
- Recruit volunteer Rotarians and community experts to mentor youth and families in gardening, nutrition, and sustainability.
- Collaborate with landscaping businesses for in-kind donations (plants, materials) and hands-on instruction.
- Organize a spring/fall "community planting day" to launch or revitalize local gardens, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.
- Leverage Rotary’s resources for small grants or tool purchases.
- Publicize project progress and encourage ongoing engagement with harvest events or farm-to-table tastings.
1. Community Mental Health and Wellness Fair (Aligned with Community Health and Education)
Context:
The news highlights that Libertyville High Schools (D128) are recognized among the top schools in the nation, reflecting a strong academic environment. However, incidents like the recent pretrial release of an individual accused of inappropriate acts near a school underscore the need for continued vigilance and proactive community support for student well-being and safety. The return to school, along with heightened public awareness about school safety and staff (as seen in the “Who Makes Your School Awesome?!” campaign), points to an opportunity to foster mental health, stress management, and resilience for students, families, and educators.
Potential Partners:
- Community Consolidated High School District 128 (Libertyville and Vernon Hills High Schools)
- Lake County Health Department
- Advocate Aurora Health or Endeavor Health Systems (noted as local health leaders)
- Local youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs)
- Libertyville/Grayslake Rotary clubs
Next Steps:
1. Reach out to D128 administrators and PTAs to discuss partnership and event logistics.
2. Invite local health professionals, mental health advocates, and youth mentors to provide workshops and resource tables.
3. Organize speakers or panels addressing topics like digital safety, coping with stress, and family resources.
4. Consider hosting the event at a school gymnasium or the Libertyville Civic Center.
5. Seek Rotary volunteers for event support and sponsorship to cover materials and refreshments, possibly holding a parallel fundraiser (e.g., raffle) to fund scholarships for counseling or after-school programs.
2. Environmental Action and Outdoor Education Day (Aligned with the Environment and Youth Development)
Context:
Lake County Forest Preserves’ “Hike Lake County” program is in its 27th year, encouraging residents and families to enjoy local trails and parks. Environmental awareness and stewardship are growing focus areas, especially as local governments like Libertyville introduce new policies such as grocery taxes, which could open dialogue on sustainability. Recent coverage of housefires and heroic rescues in Grayslake also raises awareness of community response and environmental hazards.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves District
- Local scout troops (noting the upcoming Boy Scouts’ Good Scout Award Dinner)
- Schools’ environmental clubs (Libertyville, Grayslake)
- Sierra Club, local chapter
- Business sponsors (e.g., REI Vernon Hills)
- Lake County Audubon Society
Next Steps:
1. Coordinate with the Forest Preserves District to host a special “Rotary Environmental Day,” combining trail walks with family-friendly activities like invasive plant pulls, pollinator garden planting, or educational booths.
2. Engage scout troops and school clubs for hands-on stewardship projects earning community service hours.
3. Involve local business sponsors to provide snacks, supplies, or branded giveaways.
4. Publicize the event in local news (e.g., Patch) and through school/partner newsletters.
5. Use the day as a platform for a Rotary fundraiser—such as pledges per mile hiked or dollars for trees planted—benefiting future conservation or outdoor youth education programs.
These initiatives both directly meet current community needs and align with Rotary’s core focus areas, bringing together local leaders, youth, and families for positive, sustainable impact.