Based on the provided news excerpts, there is limited coverage of specific events or issues directly affecting Gurnee, Waukegan, or broader Lake County, IL, as of September 12, 2025. However, by considering ongoing community needs and Rotary International’s areas of focus, as well as what is typically front-of-mind in local communities (such as polarization, public health, and education), I recommend the following two Rotary opportunities:
1. Community Mental Health & Resilience Forums
Context:
Recent columns and letters to the editor reflect heightened political tension and stress in the community. Polarization, contentious local and national issues, and even references to high-profile acts of political violence (e.g., “Why was Charlie Kirk assassinated?”) signal anxiety, confusion, and stress among residents. Beyond the headlines, ongoing national trends indicate post-pandemic communities face increased rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma, particularly among youth and families.
Rotary Alignment:
This project addresses Rotary’s focus areas of Disease Prevention & Treatment and Community Peacebuilding.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Lake County Public Schools (District 50, District 121, etc.)
- Local faith organizations and community centers
- Lake County Crisis Care Program
- Advocate Aurora Health or Northwestern Medicine
Next Steps:
a) Convene a meeting with local mental health professionals and school counselors to assess needs and identify focus topics (e.g., anxiety management, civil communication, parent/youth coping).
b) Develop a 3-part forum series (hosted at schools, community centers, or libraries) offering expert panels, small-group discussions, and resource tables.
c) Apply for a district or foundation grant to support speaker fees, venue costs, and refreshments.
d) Publicize widely using social media, local news, and partner newsletters.
e) Consider integrating art or essay contests for youth on the theme of “Building Resilient Communities.”
2. Youth Civic Engagement & Critical Media Literacy Workshops
Context:
Local letters and opinion pieces underscore confusion, misinformation, and distrust connected to rapidly shifting news cycles and contentious issues. With the 2024 and possible 2026 elections on the horizon, there is a particular need to foster responsible news literacy and civic engagement among youth—strengthening both Education and Peacebuilding goals.
Rotary Alignment:
This project addresses Education & Literacy and Youth Service.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library, Gurnee Public Library
- Local high schools and after-school programs
- Lake County Bar Association (for civics education)
- Daily Herald or local journalists (workshop leaders)
Next Steps:
a) Connect with librarians and social studies teachers to design age-appropriate interactive workshops that teach students (middle/high school) how to spot misinformation, verify sources, and understand civic responsibilities.
b) Recruit volunteer facilitators, including Rotarians with journalism, law, or education backgrounds.
c) Launch a pilot event at the Waukegan or Gurnee library, evaluating turnout and feedback for future expansion.
d) Offer certificates or community service hours to participants as incentives.
e) Seek funding for workshop materials and refreshments through the Rotary club's annual budget or a small local foundation grant.
Both projects are timely, highly visible, and aligned with Rotary’s mission and strengths as a convener, educator, and service organization.
1. Supporting Immigrant Families and Youth in Lake County
Context:
Recent reporting notes that an immigrant assistance hotline received more than 500 calls in one day, the highest since January, indicating heightened need among immigrant families in the area and potential policy uncertainty. There are also concerns about “hundreds of hotline calls but no clear arrest numbers,” showing fear, instability, and urgent need for community support. Lake County Board member Esiah Campos specifically called for community action in the wake of national policy shifts.
Potential Partners:
- HACES (Hispanic American Community Education & Services)
- Waukegan Public Library (offers ESL and citizenship classes)
- Lake County Immigrant Advocacy organizations
- Waukegan Public Schools’ bilingual and family engagement programs
Rotary Service/Fundraising Opportunity:
Rotary could organize a Family Support Day, featuring free legal clinics, citizenship and “Know Your Rights” workshops, mental health resource booths, language support, basic health screenings, and youth activity corners. Rotary members with legal, education, or health backgrounds could volunteer, and funds raised would support ongoing legal or counseling services for families.
Next Steps:
- Meet with HACES and library/welcome center staff to assess immediate needs and shape event content
- Secure space (possibly at the Waukegan library or a large school) and recruit volunteers
- Arrange translation, mental health, and legal professionals as event partners
- Publicize event in multiple languages through schools, churches, and local Spanish-language media
- Consider an ongoing partnership for either quarterly legal/resource clinics or a youth mentorship program for immigrant students
2. Native Plant Community Planting with Youth Leadership
Context:
Local coverage highlights a “surge” in native planting initiatives in Lake County—likely reflecting both growing public interest in nature-based solutions and calls for local environmental action. Schools face budget pressures and may cut “non-essential” programming, so engaging youth in service-learning environmental projects could fill a need both for education and outdoor activities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves, especially Ryerson Woods or Rollins Savanna
- Local school environmental clubs (e.g., Waukegan High School, Warren Township in Gurnee)
- Wild Ones Lake to Prairie Chapter
- Go Green Waukegan/Gurnee civic groups
- Business partners such as local nurseries
Rotary Service/Fundraising Opportunity:
Sponsor and lead a “Youth Native Planting Challenge,” bringing together student leaders for a Saturday hands-on planting project in a high-visibility location (such as a local park or school grounds). Rotary can fundraise for supplies, donate time, and use the event to raise environmental awareness. Incorporate educational workshops on pollinators, habitat restoration, and local ecology, ensuring both environmental and educational impact.
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Forest Preserve staff to determine planting locations and needs
- Coordinate with schools to recruit youth leaders and volunteers; offer service hours or certificates
- Partner with local experts (Wild Ones, nurseries) for plant material and expertise
- Plan for publicity and a follow-up event or tour in the spring, highlighting student involvement
- Seek grant opportunities or Rotary District funding to expand the initiative city- or countywide
Here are two Rotary project opportunities based on recent news and community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Youth Achievement & Education: Spelling Bee Support and Literacy Enhancement
Context:
Lake County seventh grader Visharad Sathish, a 12-year-old, just won a marathon regional spelling bee and will represent the area at the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This highlights strong local interest in literacy, academic achievement, and youth education. With over 73 schools participating, there’s a clear passion for academic enrichment, but many students may lack resources for similar opportunities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local schools (public and private, including those represented in the bee)
- Public libraries (Waukegan, Gurnee, and Lake County system)
- Parents’ associations
- Local sponsors interested in youth achievement (e.g., educational supply stores, tutoring centers)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Lake County Regional Office of Education to discuss co-sponsoring next year's spelling bee, including providing lunch, trophies, and travel stipends for winning families.
- Launch a Rotary Youth Literacy Fund, using donations and a fundraising event to purchase books, spelling bee preparation materials, and cover fees for under-resourced participants.
- Host a “Words Matter” Family Literacy Festival: organize spelling games, reading circles, and interactive literacy workshops at local libraries with local educators and authors.
- Consider an annual “Rotary Academic Achievement Award,” recognizing not just winners but participants who demonstrate dedication.
- Engage Rotary members as mentors for spelling bee participants or reading buddies for younger children.
2. Lakefront & Environmental Stewardship: Waukegan Lakefront Revitalization Initiative
Context:
Waukegan's historic lakefront has seen multiple businesses close, such as the long-standing Dockside Dogs, and the area faces economic and environmental revitalization challenges. With native plants on the rise and increasing environmental awareness, Rotary can make a difference emphasizing sustainability, beautification, and community health.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District
- Waukegan Port District
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Environmental groups (e.g., Lake County Audubon Society)
- Local businesses and waterfront property owners
- Schools and youth organizations for volunteer STEM and environmental learning
Next Steps:
- Meet with city agencies (Waukegan Park and Port Districts) to determine key lakefront improvement goals and identify areas needing the most support.
- Organize a “Lakefront Clean-Up and Native Plant Day,” inviting residents, students, and local businesses to clean debris and plant pollinator-friendly, native Illinois vegetation. Provide environmental education stations at the event.
- Create a Rotary “Adopt-a-Shoreline” project: commit to regular maintenance, trash pickups, and seasonal environmental awareness activities at the lakefront.
- Fundraise for bike racks, benches, and signage to increase lakefront accessibility and promote stewardship, recognizing Rotary’s contribution.
- Collaborate with local schools for hands-on service learning projects tied to science/environmental curriculum.
In both initiatives, Rotary would advance its areas of focus: youth education, community health, and the environment. These projects offer immediate impact with visibility and opportunities for deeper, ongoing engagement in Lake County.
1. Sensory-Safe Community Events for Neurodiverse Youth and Families
Context:
The Gurnee Police Department recently utilized a new “drone as first responder” program to rapidly locate a missing autistic child. This underscores both the local need for enhanced safety and inclusion for neurodiverse individuals (such as those with autism) and the community’s willingness to embrace innovative tools and outreach.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department (Chief Brian Smith)
- Local autism advocacy organizations (e.g., Autism Society of Illinois)
- School districts (District 50, District 56)
- Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Gurnee Police Department to express interest in co-hosting or supporting sensory-friendly community events or emergency-preparedness workshops for families of neurodiverse children.
- Collaborate with local advocacy groups and schools to identify families who could benefit and to co-develop educational resources.
- Seek grant or sponsor support from area businesses for specialized materials (sensory kits, safety tools).
- Organize “Safe Spaces Days” at public venues (libraries, parks), including police and first responder meet-and-greets, drone demonstrations, and caregiver training on safety and rapid response.
- Measure impact via attendee feedback and potential partnerships formed for longer-term advocacy/support efforts.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community Health, Basic Education and Literacy, Child & Maternal Health
2. Food Security Fundraiser and Volunteer Mobilization
Context:
Recent reports of a spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries mirror what’s being seen in Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee. Inflation, job instability, and pandemic after-effects have led to increased food insecurity for families and individuals. Food pantries are under strain to meet the needs of the community.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (Lake County branch, CEO Julie Yurko)
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- PADS Lake County
- Local supermarkets (e.g., Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s)
- Local schools and houses of worship
Next Steps:
- Plan a “Rotary Fights Hunger” campaign: a fundraiser (community dinner, walkathon) and/or a large-scale food drive, engaging local businesses and schools to collect both funds and non-perishables.
- Work with Northern Illinois Food Bank and local pantries to establish most-needed items and donation schedules.
- Recruit Rotary members, Interact and Rotaract clubs, and community volunteers for food sorting, packing, and distribution.
- Consider a “Backpack Program” for schools to send weekend food supplies home with students in need.
- Publicize the effort jointly with partner organizations to expand reach and encourage ongoing support.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community Economic Development, Disease Prevention and Treatment, Maternal and Child Health
Based on recent events and ongoing activities in the Gurnee/Waukegan/Lake County area, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities tied to Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Mental Health Support Collaborative: Gala Partnership with CYN Counseling Center
Context:
The upcoming "4th Annual Behind the Mask Gala benefiting CYN Counseling Center" (September 26) highlights community concern for youth and family mental wellness. In Lake County, access to affordable, stigma-free mental health care is an urgent need. CYN Counseling Center, a local nonprofit, addresses issues such as youth anxiety, trauma, and family conflict, directly supporting Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and treatment, as well as supporting education by fostering emotional wellness among youth.
Potential Partners: - CYN Counseling Center (lead beneficiary) - College of Lake County (possible student volunteers/interns) - Local school districts (promote resources to families) - Local businesses as event sponsors or donors
Next Steps: 1. Connect with CYN Counseling Center to explore co-sponsorship of the Gala or a parallel Rotary-led fundraising drive to augment event impact. 2. Form a volunteer team to help with Gala planning, promotion, and on-site event support (decor, logistics, registration). 3. Develop an outreach campaign to educate families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and neighboring communities about available counseling resources and the importance of youth mental health. 4. Seek in-kind or financial donations from area businesses as part of the Rotary’s contribution and highlight these partnerships during the event.
2. Environmental and Community Engagement at the Waukegan Waterfront Market
Context:
The "Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina" (September 26) is a popular community event that attracts families from Gurnee, Waukegan, and throughout Lake County. Rotary’s focus on the environment aligns well with supporting clean water initiatives, litter prevention, and education about Lake Michigan’s health and sustainability—especially critical in urban shore communities. Markets provide a venue to reach youth and families while emphasizing environmental stewardship.
Potential Partners: - City of Waukegan and its Harbor & Marina staff - Local environmental organizations (e.g., Friends of Lake Michigan, Waukegan Park District, Alliance for the Great Lakes) - Area schools and student ecology clubs - Local vendors, who could support green initiatives or donate a percentage of sales
Next Steps: 1. Reserve a Rotary booth at the Waukegan Waterfront Market dedicated to water conservation, pollution prevention, and environmental education for families and youth. 2. Organize a “Lakefront Litter Challenge,” inviting youth groups to collect trash before/during the market, with prizes and recognition provided at the event. 3. Partner with local environmental organizations to provide hands-on demos (e.g., water quality testing, pollinator gardens) and distribute educational materials. 4. Use the market event to launch a fundraising micro-campaign in support of lakefront cleanup supplies or expanded environmental programs in Lake County schools.
These two opportunities not only respond to current events and identified needs in Lake County but also showcase Rotary's commitment to sustainable impact in mental health, youth support, and environmental stewardship.
1. Mental Health Awareness and Support Initiative
Context:
A Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board recently hosted a mental health fair, bringing together agencies specializing in mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities to educate residents. This highlights local recognition of growing mental health needs in Lake County, especially in light of recent traumatic events—including a police-involved shooting and public safety anxieties.
Potential Project:
Organize a Rotary-sponsored Community Mental Health Expo or ongoing mental health support workshop series. The event(s) would connect residents to available resources, provide education on stress management, promote destigmatization, and offer direct support or screening.
Potential Partners:
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- Lake County Health Department
- Local mental health agencies (e.g., NAMI Lake County, Lake Behavioral Hospital)
- Local schools and other civic organizations
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board to discuss collaboration.
- Assemble a planning committee including mental health professionals, school counselors, and Rotary club members.
- Secure a location and promote the event through local media and community partners.
- Consider offering scholarships for mental health first aid training to local youth leaders or educators as an ongoing service commitment.
2. Holiday Giving and Family Support Drive
Context:
Vernon Township has launched holiday giving programs, collecting donations for Thanksgiving baskets, holiday wish list gifts, and meals for local families. Economic hardship continues to impact many in Lake County, with food insecurity and the need for essentials persistently high.
Potential Project:
Partner with township agencies to expand holiday giving efforts into a Rotary-led “Season of Service” drive, collecting food, winter clothing, and gifts for children and families in need across Waukegan, Gurnee, and the broader area.
Potential Partners:
- Vernon Township Social Services
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire, supermarkets, and community centers)
- Faith groups and area youth organizations (such as Boy Scouts, school clubs)
Next Steps:
- Contact Vernon Township to coordinate efforts and identify unmet needs or gaps in current donation/volunteer coverage.
- Mobilize Rotary club members and local partners for donation and distribution logistics.
- Plan coordinated collection events at area businesses, schools, and public spaces.
- Incorporate educational elements about local poverty and food insecurity to inspire ongoing service engagement beyond the holidays.
1. Project: Community Safety Awareness & Youth Engagement – Promoting Neurodiverse Safety and Training
Context:
Recent news from Gurnee highlights the swift, successful use of the Gurnee Police Department's new drone program in locating a missing autistic child (“New Police Drone Quickly Locates Missing Autistic Child: Authorities”, Patch, Grayslake, 14h ago). With autism rates rising and ongoing concerns about the safety of neurodiverse youth, this presents a clear need for enhanced community education, resources, and support around neurodiversity safety and police interaction.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department (especially the drone program team)
- Autism Speaks or local ASD support non-profits (e.g., Autism Society of Illinois)
- Local school districts (Gurnee, Waukegan, Zion, North Chicago)
- Crisis intervention trainers
- Park districts (potential for safe meet-up venues)
Next Steps:
- Convene an initial meeting with Gurnee PD’s drone team and school representatives to discuss gaps and needs.
- Develop a “Neurodiversity Safety Awareness Day” featuring interactive safety workshops for families, first responders, and educators.
- Secure speakers from local ASD non-profits to offer resources and training on engaging with autistic individuals.
- Fundraise for safety kits (ID tags, communication cards) for at-risk youth.
- Publicize through schools, social media, and local press to maximize reach.
- Establish follow-up programs (e.g., social stories, resource handouts) in schools and libraries.
2. Project: Support for Immigrant and Vulnerable Families – Know Your Rights & Community Resource Drive
Context:
Recent reports of increased ICE operations and immigration stings in the North Suburbs (“Flash Bang Grenades Used In Training, Daily ICE Stings To Begin From IL Naval Base: Sources”; “'Unsettling' Presence Of ICE Agents At Great Lakes Naval Base: Leaders Urge Residents To Know Their Rights”, Patch, Libertyville, Sep 4) have created unrest among immigrant families, many of whom may now fear accessing vital community resources. The need for legal, food, housing, and educational support is expected to rise, particularly in Waukegan and surrounding communities with significant immigrant populations.
Potential Partners:
- Local legal aid organizations (e.g., Mano a Mano, ICIRR – Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights)
- Lake County Health Department
- School social workers (for outreach and family engagement)
- Public libraries (for hosting information sessions)
- Local food pantries and faith-based groups
Next Steps:
- Organize a “Community Resource & Know Your Rights” fair at a neutral and safe location (church, library, school gym).
- Recruit legal experts to offer brief, confidential consultations and distribute multilingual “Know Your Rights” materials.
- Coordinate with food pantries to provide food boxes and hygiene kits for attendees in need.
- Incorporate school supply and winter clothing drives to help families prepare for seasonal needs.
- Raise funds to support emergency grants and resource distribution.
- Develop a follow-up contact list to provide ongoing information and support as ICE activity continues.