Certainly! Given your request and drawing on recent trends and ongoing challenges in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary project opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Mental Health & Youth Wellness Fair
Context:
Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, has continued to report rising concerns regarding youth mental health. Recent school board and city council meetings have highlighted a shortage of in-person counseling, increased youth anxiety post-pandemic, and a rise in emergency mental health calls—a need echoed by local families and educators. There is a growing push for accessible mental health education, wellness resources, and opportunities for youth connectedness.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Gurnee Park District and Waukegan Park District
- Schools: Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Warren Township High School (Gurnee)
- Local youth-focused nonprofits (e.g., Youth & Family Counseling, Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Rotary Interact Clubs
Next Steps:
1. Meet with school administrators and local mental health service providers to assess the most urgent needs and potential event dates.
2. Convene a planning committee including students, local counselors, and Rotary members.
3. Organize a Mental Health & Wellness Fair featuring speakers, workshops (stress management, coping with anxiety), free screenings, and information booths.
4. Secure donations/sponsorships from local businesses and the Lake County Community Foundation.
5. Publicize through partner channels and area schools, ensuring accessibility for underserved communities.
2. Environmental Stewardship: Community Pollinator Garden & Education Project
Context:
Environmental sustainability remains a key concern in Lake County. Local conservation groups and the Lake County Forest Preserves have spotlighted declining pollinator populations affecting both urban and rural areas. The region hosts several unused or underutilized public spaces (e.g., near the Waukegan River and Gurnee’s Des Plaines River Trail) where native pollinator gardens could support biodiversity, beautify neighborhoods, and serve as educational sites for schools.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Waukegan Park District and Gurnee Park District
- Local gardening clubs (e.g., Lake County Master Gardeners)
- Environmental high school clubs
- Girl Scouts/Boy Scouts chapters
Next Steps:
1. Coordinate with park districts to identify suitable, visible public spaces for pollinator gardens.
2. Host a planning workshop with environmental partners and Secure donations or in-kind support (native plants, educational signs).
3. Form teams (Rotary, students, community members) for planting events and garden maintenance.
4. Develop educational signage highlighting pollinator habitat importance—organize sessions for local schools.
5. Create a rotating stewardship schedule, offering Interact and Scout groups opportunities for community service hours.
Based on the recent news and pressing community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that directly align with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Workforce Development Program for Youth and Young Adults
Context:
Waukegan is hoping to benefit from a new Great Lakes economic initiative emphasizing “jobs for the next generation.” The College of Lake County (CLC), under its new 2030 Strategic Plan, is prioritizing partnerships to support community evolution and workforce readiness. There is a clear drive to prepare high school and college-aged youth for future job opportunities in the area, particularly in industries positioned for growth.
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (President: Lori Suddick)
- Waukegan and Gurnee Chamber of Commerce
- Local businesses involved in Great Lakes economic development
- Waukegan High School, Carmel Catholic High School
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with CLC’s workforce development office to identify gaps in youth skills and potential pilot programs for internships, resume workshops, and mentorship.
- Coordinate with local employers identified in the Great Lakes economic plan to secure guest speakers, workplace tours, and internship placements.
- Plan a career fair and/or fundraise to support transportation, resources, and stipends for participating students.
- Seek grant funding or sponsorship from local industry leaders who benefit from a stronger workforce pipeline.
2. Environmental Stewardship & Urban Greening Initiative
Context:
Mundelein’s recent decision to promote an “urban-friendly environment” by restricting car washes in downtown signals a regional interest in sustainability and improving public spaces. With the Great Lakes at the community’s doorstep, there is ongoing need for environmental stewardship and connection to green jobs—aligned with Rotary’s environmental focus and the economic themes emerging in Waukegan and Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Lake County Sustainability, Friends of the Forest Preserves)
- Mundelein, Waukegan, and Gurnee city governments
- High school environmental clubs (Libertyville, Mundelein, Carmel HS)
Next Steps:
- Organize a community clean-up and environmental education day in partnership with local schools and city governments, focusing on downtown beautification and green infrastructure awareness.
- Develop a fundraising campaign for added urban greenery (planters, trees, rain gardens) in business districts, seeking sponsorship from businesses, garden centers, and civic groups.
- Collaborate with Lake County Forest Preserves for youth engagement opportunities such as internships, volunteer days, and educational outreach—especially to connect underserved youth to environmental careers.
- Apply for Rotary and regional environmental grants to expand project reach, and measure impact through community surveys and visible downtown improvements.
These initiatives respond directly to current events, economic development priorities, and environmental aspirations in Lake County, engaging youth and supporting the broader community.
1. Youth Education Advancement: Lake County Spelling Bee Support and Literacy Initiatives
Context:
Local seventh grader Visharad Sathish recently won a marathon Lake County Regional Spelling Bee and will represent the area at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This achievement, with participation from 73 Lake County schools and hundreds of students, highlights both the enthusiasm for academic challenge and the need for ongoing support for youth literacy and enrichment programs.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Participating Lake County schools
- Local libraries (e.g., Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee)
- The Scripps National Spelling Bee organization
- Parent-teacher organizations
Next Steps:
- Host a Literacy Celebration/Fundraiser: Organize an event to honor Visharad Sathish and other spelling bee participants, featuring spelling competitions, book drives, and guest speakers. Proceeds could fund literacy programs or scholarships for under-resourced students.
- Adopt-a-School Initiative: Work with underperforming or underfunded schools to provide spelling/literacy resources—such as books, coaching sessions, or transportation to academic competitions.
- Mentorship Program: Establish a mentorship or tutoring network leveraging Rotarians, high school students, and community members to support spelling and reading skills throughout the year.
2. Workforce Development and Youth Empowerment: Waukegan Great Lakes Economic Plan Engagement
Context:
Waukegan is seeking to benefit from a new Great Lakes economic initiative focused on creating career opportunities for the next generation. This aligns closely with Rotary's focus on economic development, vocational service, and supporting youth in preparing for future jobs—especially in sustainability, environmental technology, and manufacturing, where Lake County has historical presence.
Potential Partners:
- City of Waukegan Economic Development Office
- College of Lake County (President Lori Suddick has emphasized the importance of community partnerships)
- Local employers and manufacturers
- Environmental and technical training organizations
Next Steps:
- Career Awareness Workshops and Scholarships: Plan and host a series of career exploration events focusing on sectors highlighted by the Great Lakes economic plan. Collaborate with the College of Lake County and local companies for hands-on demos, internships, and informational sessions.
- Youth Environmental Innovation Challenge: Launch a challenge or hackathon for local teens to develop innovative solutions to environmental or economic problems relevant to the Great Lakes region. Provide seed funding or scholarships for winning teams.
- Sponsorship and Fundraising: Organize a fundraising campaign or gala in support of vocational training scholarships for Lake County youth entering in-demand or STEM careers linked to the new economic opportunities.
These service ideas leverage timely news and community interests, and directly address literacy, education, economic development, and youth empowerment.
1. Support for New Domestic Violence Facility in Lake County (Community Health & Peacebuilding)
Context:
A recent news item highlights that a local organization is seeking support for a new domestic violence facility in Lake County. Domestic violence remains a critical issue in the area, affecting women, children, and families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and the surrounding communities. The need for expanded shelter, resources, and support is acute.
Potential Partners: - A Safe Place (Lake County’s leading provider of services addressing domestic violence) - United Way of Lake County - Local law enforcement - Lake County Health Department
Next Steps: - Reach out to A Safe Place or the lead organization requesting support (coordinate with your local Patch news contacts or the organization's development director to establish initial communication). - Organize a service project or fundraiser, such as a benefit dinner, fun run, or online giving campaign, with proceeds going directly to the new facility’s construction or operations. - Engage Rotary and Interact Club members in assembling welcome kits for new residents, including toiletries, school supplies, and basic necessities. - Publicize the initiative within the Rotary district, using social media, local news outlets, and partnerships with area businesses to maximize fundraising and volunteer recruitment. - Follow up by developing a long-term support plan, possibly sponsoring programs (e.g., job readiness, counseling workshops) once the facility is open.
2. Lake County Trails Environmental Project & Hiking Challenge Support (Environment & Youth Development)
Context:
The Lake County Forest Preserve District recently released details for the 2025 Hike Lake County Program, spotlighting thirteen local trails for the community to explore. This annual event encourages health, wellbeing, and appreciation of local natural resources but can be expanded to further promote environmental stewardship and youth engagement.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Forest Preserve District - Scout troops and youth groups in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding towns - Local schools (especially those with environmental clubs) - “Friends of the Forest Preserves” and similar volunteer groups
Next Steps: - Collaborate with the Forest Preserve District to organize a trail cleanup and restoration day involving local youth, Rotary, and Interact volunteers. - Host educational hikes with environmental experts to teach about native species, responsible recreation, and conservation. - Launch a fundraising campaign to sponsor new trail signage or provide equipment (such as litter grabbers, gloves, or educational materials) for community volunteers and school groups. - Reward participants with special patches, certificates, or recognition at a Rotary event, encouraging sustained engagement. - Establish an ongoing stewardship program, adopting one or more trails for quarterly cleanups and “trail buddy” mentorships between youth and Rotarians.
1. Promoting Community Literacy and Access to Education through a Rotary Used Book Drive and Literacy Grants
Context:
The upcoming Used Book Sale on September 27 at 31 Park Ave, Grayslake, highlights strong community interest in literacy and books. Many areas within Lake County, including Waukegan and portions of Gurnee, face barriers to affordable access to books and educational resources, particularly for children and low-income families. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on supporting education and literacy.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Public Library
- Waukegan Public Library
- Local school districts (e.g., District 50, District 121)
- Nonprofits such as Bernie’s Book Bank (Lake Bluff)
- Local independent bookstores
- Community centers
Next Steps:
- Contact organizers of the September 27 Used Book Sale to explore a Rotary partnership or sponsorship for the event or host a parallel book drive targeting underserved communities.
- Organize Rotary-led collection drives in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake in the weeks preceding the sale; focus on collecting children’s books, Spanish/English bilingual titles, and STEM materials.
- Recruit volunteers (including Rotary youth/Interact, local scouts, and students) for sorting and distribution.
- Distribute books at the sale, local shelters, after-school programs (e.g. at Waukegan Park District centers), and Little Free Libraries.
- Leverage the event to raise funds for literacy grants or classroom supply grants for local schools.
- Promote ongoing literacy programs, including “Rotary Readers” (members reading in schools), and explore starting a community book club in partnership with libraries.
2. Youth Arts Engagement and Mental Health through a Community Mural Project
Context:
Events like the “Canvas Mural Collaboration” (October 12, Beer Bazaar in Grayslake) and other fall arts events (Grayslake Arts Alliance Fall for Art: Oktoberfest) suggest a vibrant local arts culture and interest in youth and community art. Art enrichment, especially community mural projects, build belonging, beautify public spaces, engage youth, and support mental wellness—directly linked to Rotary priorities in youth development, mental health, and community engagement.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Arts Alliance
- Local high schools’ art departments (e.g., Grayslake North High School, Waukegan High School)
- Lake County Youth Services Organizations
- Local artists (Sinéad Carus, as highlighted in events)
- Municipal parks and recreation departments
- Painting supply retailers and local businesses for sponsorship
Next Steps:
- Contact the Grayslake Arts Alliance and Beer Bazaar to co-organize or sponsor the next mural event, focusing on inclusion of youth from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County at large.
- Host an art contest at area schools, inviting students to submit mural designs with themes of mental health, community unity, or environmental stewardship (crossing Rotary’s focus areas).
- Provide funding and supplies for the winning mural to be realized in a public space (e.g., school, library, community center, or popular park trail in Gurnee or Waukegan).
- Engage students, families, and community members in painting days to foster intergenerational connections.
- Promote mental health resources at the mural unveiling, inviting youth services organizations to provide information and support.
- Document and share project impact through local news and social media, raising Rotary’s profile as a youth and arts champion—and using event proceeds or sponsorships to fund further youth programs or scholarships.
Rotary Service & Fundraising Opportunity #1:
Supporting People with Developmental Disabilities at the Riverside Foundation
Context:
The Riverside Foundation, a Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board (VTCMHB) grant recipient, provides services and a supportive community for individuals with developmental disabilities in the Lake County area. Their mission of enrichment aligns closely with Rotary’s areas of focus on supporting people with disabilities, strengthening community health, and promoting inclusion.
Potential Partners:
- Riverside Foundation (contact through VTCMHB)
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- Local high schools and colleges for volunteer involvement (e.g., Woodlands Academy, Lake Forest High School)
- Local businesses such as Waukegan Tire, as community sponsors
Next Steps:
1. Reach out to Riverside Foundation staff and VTCMHB to discuss current needs—such as facility improvement, program support, or supplies—for their residents and day program.
2. Identify specific fundraising or service projects, such as accessible garden installations, recreational space upgrades, or resource drives for daily needs.
3. Mobilize Rotary volunteers for hands-on service days and plan a fundraising event (e.g., charity dinner, silent auction) partnering with local businesses.
4. Publicize the project through local media and school networks to encourage community engagement and volunteerism.
Rotary Service & Fundraising Opportunity #2:
Promoting Youth Achievement & Educational Excellence
Context:
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart was recently named a National Blue Ribbon School, and Lake Forest High School saw 16 students recognized as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. This highlights academic achievement and the drive for educational excellence in Lake County. However, many students and schools—especially in nearby Waukegan and underserved communities—may lack similar resources or access to academic enrichment, mentorship, and scholarship support.
Potential Partners:
- Woodlands Academy (to serve as a resource or mentoring hub)
- Lake Forest and Waukegan public school districts
- National Honor Society/local PTAs
- Public libraries and after-school programs
Next Steps:
1. Connect with school officials and educators in both affluent and under-resourced districts to identify gaps in student support and potential mentees/mentees.
2. Develop a Rotary-led mentorship and tutoring initiative, pairing high-achieving students (like those from Woodlands and Lake Forest High) with youth from Waukegan and Gurnee.
3. Plan a fundraising campaign to support scholarships, enrichment activities, or STEM programs for students in need (including technology, supplies, and transport).
4. Host joint community recognition events, highlighting academic achievements and building youth leadership pathways across Lake County.
1. Rotary Road Safety and Victim Support Initiative
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community Health, Peace & Conflict Prevention/Resolution, Supporting Families
Context:
Recent tragic events, such as the fatal hit-and-run that killed a pregnant Mundelein mother in Waukegan (with Rosalinda Vaca of Waukegan charged), highlight urgent road safety issues and trauma in the community. Beyond immediate law enforcement actions, there appears to be a critical need for public education campaigns, support to victims’ families, and trauma recovery resources.
Potential Partners: - Waukegan Police Department and Lake County Sheriff's Office - Local hospitals and trauma centers - Safe Kids Lake County - Lake County Victim Services, Illinois Department of Transportation - MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) – Lake County chapter
Next Steps: - Reach out to local law enforcement and hospitals to assess ongoing needs for victim support and identify gaps. - Organize a community awareness event, such as a “Day of Remembrance” for road victims, which could also serve as a fundraiser for supporting impacted families. - Launch an educational campaign in partnership with schools and community centers, focusing on road safety, including pedestrian awareness and anti-hit-and-run messaging. - Set up a victim emergency fund (or support existing ones) to provide short-term financial assistance to families affected by road violence. - Enlist Rotarians as volunteers for support roles—including organizing vigils, providing meals, or coordinating trauma counseling.
2. Rotary Safe Youth Spaces and Empowerment Project
Rotary Areas of Focus: Youth Service, Disease Prevention, Peace & Conflict Prevention/Resolution, Basic Education
Context:
Area headlines about a child sexual predator targeting school zones in Vernon Hills, continuing trials regarding police violence, and youth violence (such as the shooting in Round Lake Beach) stress the need for proactive youth engagement and safer community spaces. Concerns about safety can be directly addressed by providing positive alternatives and bolstering protective measures around children.
Potential Partners: - Lake County schools and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) - Boys & Girls Club of Lake County - Lake County Children's Advocacy Center - Community youth centers and after-school programs - Local mental health organizations
Next Steps: - Convene a stakeholder roundtable with school administrators, PTA reps, and advocacy organizations to determine immediate needs for enhanced after-school safety and support. - Develop or expand after-school programs providing mentorship, safe recreation, and life skills training—Rotary could fundraise for equipment, supplies, or scholarships. - Work with local authorities to secure and brighten school parking areas/walkways (lighting, surveillance, safe walk programs supported by Rotarian volunteers). - Offer free youth empowerment workshops on self-esteem, anti-bullying, cyber-safety, and conflict resolution, enlisting Rotarians and expert partners. - Create and publicize a “Safe Spaces” initiative, training local businesses and volunteers to identify and assist at-risk youth.
Each project directly addresses urgent local challenges, aligns with Rotary’s areas of focus, and leverages strong local partners for maximum community impact.