Rotary Service & Fundraising Recommendations for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL (as of October 2025)
Context:
Food waste and food insecurity remain persistent challenges in Lake County communities. Recent media coverage highlighted creative solutions for using food scraps (e.g., making soup from broccoli and cauliflower stems), drawing attention to both food resourcefulness and community needs. Additionally, Lake County’s diverse population, including in Waukegan, faces barriers to healthy, affordable nutrition.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (Lake County branch)
- Waukegan and Gurnee Park Districts (for community center access)
- Local chefs or culinary educators (possible feature: Emilia D’Albero, recent winner of “Best Cheesemonger in the World,” for publicity or workshops)
- School districts (D56, D60, D121) for outreach to youth and families
Next Steps:
- Organize a series of workshops on healthy cooking with food scraps and budget-friendly recipes. Leverage local culinary talent for demonstrations and tastings.
- Develop a food collection and redistribution program: partner with grocery stores, farmers markets, and restaurants to redirect usable surplus produce to those in need.
- Seek grant funding and volunteer recruitment via Rotary’s channels; collaborate with local media for awareness campaigns.
- Implement nutrition education in schools and at local events, coupling hands-on sessions with food assistance distribution.
- Explore “Rotary Recipe Kits” as a fundraising mechanism: curated boxes of ingredients and recipes to make healthy meals at home.
Context:
Recent letters and opinion pieces point to broader concerns about community health and diminished access to medical research and support, which are echoed locally by heightened youth anxiety and stress in the aftermath of the pandemic years. Schools in Gurnee and Waukegan have noted increased needs for mental health support, especially as community resources have been stretched.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department, Behavioral Health Services
- Local school districts and parent-teacher associations
- Organizations like the Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force
- Youth-oriented nonprofits and afterschool programs (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Convene a roundtable with school counselors, mental health professionals, and local youth to identify service gaps and needs.
- Launch a series of “Resilience Workshops” for teens—covering stress management, emotional literacy, healthy social media habits, etc.
- Fundraise for and distribute “Youth Wellness Kits” (journals, stress balls, resource cards, etc.), possibly co-branded with Rotary.
- Offer micro-grants to schools or student groups proposing peer-led mental health initiatives.
- Host an annual awareness event or walk to de-stigmatize mental health challenges, with fundraising to support ongoing school-based counseling.
- Pursue joint grant opportunities with the Lake County Health Department and coordinate with mental health first aid training for school staff and community members.
These initiatives directly align with Rotary’s focus areas of Community Health, Basic Education, and Youth Support, and can be tailored to the ongoing needs and current events in Lake County.
1. Literacy & Inclusion: “Banned Books Read-A-Thon” and Free Library Outreach
Context:
A recent Lake County News-Sun column (“Make reading banned books a revolutionary act”) spotlights the ongoing rise in book challenges and bans in schools and libraries. This trend restricts access to diverse literature, impacting youth education and community inclusion in Gurnee, Waukegan, and throughout Lake County.
Rotary Area of Focus: Basic education and literacy; peace and conflict resolution.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library (Gurnee)
- Local schools (such as Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School)
- Bookstores (Lake Forest Book Store, Barnes & Noble Vernon Hills)
- Advocacy groups (Illinois Library Association)
Project Concept:
Organize a community Banned Books Read-A-Thon fundraiser featuring readings, discussions, and free distribution of challenged books. Supplement the event by raising funds and collecting book donations for “Little Free Libraries” in underserved neighborhoods, ensuring all students have equitable access to literature.
Next Steps:
- Connect with local librarians and school administrators to coordinate event details and identify book needs.
- Recruit volunteers (Rotarians, youth/service clubs, teachers) to serve as event readers and facilitators.
- Seek sponsorships from businesses and donors; arrange book donation drives.
- Secure event space (library, community center) and promote the event in English and Spanish.
- Schedule a follow-up with local schools to supply donated books and promote ongoing literacy support.
2. Community Health & Environment: “Lake County Water for All” Education and Access Initiative
Context:
Lake County officials recently celebrated the opening of a new water reservoir, citing infrastructure expense and ongoing needs. Access to clean, safe drinking water remains a priority for both environmental stewardship and public health—especially relevant in older sections of Waukegan and areas facing economic hardship. Community education around water conservation and quality is also timely.
Rotary Area of Focus: Water and sanitation; disease prevention and treatment; environment.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Government Public Works
- Lake County Health Department
- Local environmental groups (Lake County Stormwater Management Commission)
- Area schools, youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Project Concept:
Develop an outreach campaign combining water conservation/quality education with small-scale infrastructure support. This could involve:
- Hosting water education workshops for families and youth (e.g., at schools, community centers).
- Distributing water testing kits and water filters to households with older plumbing.
- Collaborating with environmental groups for local clean-up events at reservoirs, rivers, or beaches in Waukegan and Gurnee.
Next Steps:
- Meet with public works and health department officials to assess the most urgent needs and outreach gaps.
- Identify neighborhoods with greatest need for water access upgrades and environmental education.
- Design youth-friendly education materials, emphasizing water conservation and personal health.
- Apply for Rotary District Grants to fund water filters/kits and event materials.
- Organize public events on “World Water Day” or Earth Day to kick off the initiative and involve the broader community.
1. Lake County Youth Literacy & Academic Achievement Program
Rotary Area of Focus: Education, Youth
Context:
Lake County’s Visharad Sathish, a seventh-grader, is heading to the National Spelling Bee after triumphing in a marathon countywide competition involving 73 schools. His story highlights not just individual achievement, but the breadth of talent and determination among Lake County’s youth. However, participation in such academic opportunities is often uneven, and many students lack access to advanced literacy support, competitive coaching, or enrichment activities outside the standard curriculum.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (organizers of the bee)
- Local school districts (Gurnee School District 56, Waukegan CUSD 60, others)
- Local libraries (Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library)
- Community organizations supporting youth and literacy (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- The Sathish family and Bee participants as motivational speakers
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with the Lake County Regional Office of Education to assess gaps in enrichment and literacy programs.
- Develop and promote Rotary-sponsored “Academic Success Workshops” focusing on spelling, reading comprehension, and vocabulary for elementary and middle school students.
- Recruit National Spelling Bee participants (like Visharad Sathish) as program ambassadors for peer inspiration sessions.
- Secure Rotary volunteer tutors and potential fundraising for books, competition fees, and transportation to academic events.
- Host a countywide family literacy night in partnership with libraries and schools, highlighting success stories and providing resources for parents.
2. Gurnee/Waukegan Clean Water Education & Outreach Initiative
Rotary Area of Focus: Environment, Community Health, Education
Context:
Lake County officials have recently celebrated a new water reservoir, underscoring ongoing investments in local water infrastructure. Clean water access, aging infrastructure, and environmental quality are key concerns in Gurnee and Waukegan. Despite new projects, many residents remain underinformed about safe water practices, conservation, and the health impacts of water quality—an issue that touches education, public health, and environmental stewardship.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Public Works and Environmental Services
- Village of Gurnee Environmental Commission
- Waukegan Park District
- Local schools and science clubs
- Lake County Health Department
- Environmental groups (e.g., Lake County Forest Preserves Foundation)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with the Lake County Public Works Department to develop educational materials on water conservation and safe home water use.
- Launch Rotary-led workshops in schools and public libraries, tailored for families and youth, featuring interactive activities (water testing kits, conservation projects).
- Organize service days for waterway cleanup in partnership with Waukegan Park District and environmental clubs, emphasizing community engagement and education.
- Pursue sponsorships or mini-grants (possibly from Rotary International or local businesses) to provide water testing kits in underserved neighborhoods.
- Plan an annual Lake County Water Fest, celebrating clean water with demonstrations, guest speakers from the new reservoir project, and student science exhibits.
These projects directly respond to notable local news and needs while advancing Rotary’s mission through sustainable, highly visible community initiatives.
1. Food Insecurity Response: Rotary Local Pantry Drive and Resource Event
Context:
Recent news reports mention that “Chicago-area food pantries see spike in visits over the past year,” which suggests rising food insecurity in Lake County, including Gurnee, Waukegan, and the surrounding region. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on community health and supporting vulnerable populations.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake food pantries (e.g., COOL Ministries Food Pantry in Waukegan, Avon Township Pantry near Grayslake, The Warren Township Food Pantry in Gurnee)
- Local grocery stores and service organizations
- School districts (for identifying families in need)
- Youth groups and Interact Clubs
Next Steps:
- Contact local pantries to identify most needed food items and resources.
- Coordinate with Northern Illinois Food Bank to organize a food collection and potential grant resources.
- Arrange a late fall/winter “Rotary Food Action Day” with drop-off points at schools, community centers, and partner businesses.
- Promote the drive via local media, social media, and partner organizations.
- Integrate resource tables at distribution points, sharing information about SNAP, SNAP-Ed, food pantry hours, and health screenings.
- Engage youth volunteers to support collection, sorting, and event logistics.
2. Community Health & Safety: Motorcycle and Roadway Safety Awareness Initiative
Context:
In the last week, a motorcyclist suffered a traumatic injury (leg severed) in a Lake County vehicular collision, and a deputy was also injured in a separate crash. These recurring incidents highlight the urgent need for community education about road safety and first-response preparedness—connecting to Rotary’s focus on disease prevention, saving lives, and supporting first responders.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff’s Department
- Advocate Condell Medical Center or Vista Medical Center (for trauma education)
- Local driving schools and motorcycle safety instructors
- High schools (for youth driver programs)
- Local civic organizations and insurance agencies
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Lake County Sheriff’s Department and local hospitals to co-host a “Safety Town Hall” for the public, focusing on roadway and motorcycle safety, and accident prevention tips.
- Secure safety experts and trauma nurses as speakers to discuss the impact of distracted or impaired driving, and provide basic first aid training for bystanders.
- Arrange special workshops at high schools targeting new drivers, incorporating real local accident scenarios to drive awareness.
- Host an open community event with helmet giveaways, safety equipment displays, and simulation activities in high-traffic public spaces or school gyms.
- Partner with local businesses for event sponsorship, refreshments, and promotional giveaways.
- Develop ongoing educational materials and distribute via libraries and social media, amplifying year-round road safety awareness in Lake County.
Project 1: Rotary Youth Engagement Through Art & STEM
Context:
The local calendar highlights several youth- and community-oriented events in Grayslake and surrounding Lake County, including the “Canvas Mural Collaboration” at Beer Bazaar and the “Lake County Area Computer Enthusiasts (LCACE) Meeting.” There is a clear interest in creative arts, technology, and collaborative activities among local families and youth. These types of programs not only enrich education but also contribute to youth development, one of Rotary’s core focus areas.
Potential Partners:
- Beer Bazaar (host of the mural event)
- Lake County Area Computer Enthusiasts (LCACE)
- Grayslake North High School (recent host of an arts workshop)
- Local school districts (e.g., Grayslake Community High School District 127)
- Area artists and tech professionals
Next Steps:
1. Meet with organizers of the mural event and LCACE to propose a “Rotary Youth Art and Tech Day” in early 2026, combining mural creation, digital art, basic robotics, and coding workshops.
2. Recruit Rotarians with relevant skills as volunteers, and invite local artists and tech mentors as workshop leaders.
3. Apply for a Rotary District Grant to help cover materials (paint, canvas, computer kits, snacks).
4. Collaborate with local schools and youth clubs for event promotion and to identify interested students, with a focus on low-income youth and increasing access.
5. Use the event to launch an ongoing Rotary mentorship program for youth interested in arts and technology.
Project 2: Community Health & Wellness at Local Festivals
Context:
The area’s annual “Fall Grayslake Farmers Market,” various Harvest Fests, and the Lake County Home Show draw residents from across Gurnee, Waukegan, and other localities. These well-attended public events offer ideal platforms for Rotary to promote community health—another area of focus—particularly as Lake County (including Waukegan and Gurnee) faces challenges including chronic disease, food insecurity, and gaps in wellness education. Farmers markets and family-friendly fests are natural settings for outreach and hands-on prevention.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Farmers Market organizers
- Local health departments (Lake County Health Department)
- Non-profits such as Northern Illinois Food Bank and Mano a Mano Family Resource Center
- Regional hospitals or clinics (e.g., NorthShore HealthSystem, Advocate Aurora)
- Fitness studios, nutritionists, and wellness coaches
Next Steps:
1. Contact Grayslake Farmers Market and Harvest Fest organizers to reserve a Rotary booth for spring/summer 2026.
2. Plan interactive booth activities—e.g., free blood pressure screenings, healthy recipe demos, youth activity challenges, and resource handouts.
3. Partner with the Lake County Health Department to provide flu shots or nutrition education on-site.
4. Engage local food producers to help assemble and distribute fresh produce “starter kits” for families in need.
5. Promote Rotary’s work on social media and invite attendees to join future service projects, strengthening ties between Rotary, area residents, and potential future partners.
Both projects support Rotary’s areas of focus: the first advances education and youth development, while the second addresses community health. These efforts will build goodwill, meet local needs, and raise Rotary’s profile across Lake County.
1. Promote School and Community Safety: “Safe Spaces for Youth” Initiative
Area of focus: Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution, Youth
Context: Recent news highlights a man being arrested for bringing a concealed gun to a Highland Park High School football game, underscoring concerns about safety at school and community events. This incident has likely heightened anxiety among students, parents, and school staff in the surrounding communities, including Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Local police departments (Highland Park Police, Lake County Sheriff)
- School districts (Gurnee School District 56, Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Highland Park High School)
- Parent-Teacher Associations
- Student government and leadership groups
- Local mental health organizations (e.g., National Alliance on Mental Illness Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to school administrators and local law enforcement to assess needs and interest in joint safety promotion events.
- Host a “Safe Spaces for Youth” community forum, inviting youth, parents, educators, and officers to discuss preventative strategies, conflict de-escalation, and mental wellness resources.
- Fundraise for and help implement improved security measures or self-defense/awareness training in schools (e.g., “See Something, Say Something” campaigns, workshops on nonviolent communication).
- Develop a scholarship fund for youth leaders who champion school/community safety initiatives.
2. Supporting Inclusion for People with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities
Area of focus: Community Economic Development, Basic Education and Literacy
Context: A recent feature promoted the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board’s efforts to increase awareness of supportive services for those with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Advocacy and access remain gaps in the community, and Rotary could amplify this message or help bridge resources for these residents.
Potential Partners:
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- Local organizations serving those with disabilities (e.g., For Scout, The Harbour, Special Olympics Illinois Lake County Region)
- Lake County Center for Independent Living
- Local schools and employers with inclusive hiring practices
- Faith communities with relevant outreach programs
Next Steps:
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored resource fair, bringing together service providers, families, and disabled residents to foster connections and raise awareness.
- Fund and host inclusive community events (job workshops, social nights, or sporting events) that support life skills and social integration for those with disabilities.
- Seek grant funding to help provide adaptive equipment, educational technology, or transportation solutions.
- Partner with schools to support buddy programs that match student volunteers with peers who have disabilities for mutual learning and friendship.
1. Community Health & Safety: Mental Health and Domestic Violence Awareness Program
Context:
Recent news in Libertyville (Sep 29) reports a severe domestic violence incident: Maurice Freeman of Gurnee was arrested after injuring his mother with a metal pipe. This highlights the ongoing issues of family violence and the critical need for mental health and intervention services in Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan.
Potential Partners: - A Safe Place (Zion, IL): Lake County’s leading organization for domestic violence support and prevention. - Lake County Health Department Behavioral Health Services. - Local schools (for youth-focused programs). - Police departments of Gurnee and Waukegan.
Next Steps:
- Connect with A Safe Place and the Lake County Health Department to co-host a Mental Health First Aid and Domestic Violence Awareness workshop for community members, educators, and parents.
- Organize a fundraising event (e.g., a walk/run, community breakfast, or silent auction), with all proceeds supporting mental health counseling and emergency services for domestic violence victims.
- Develop a school-based program offering peer support training for youth, integrating professionals for workshops on recognizing and responding to signs of trauma or domestic violence.
2. Youth & Health: Cancer Awareness and Prevention Initiative for Young Adults
Context:
A recent report (Sep 29) highlights that rates of certain cancers are rising among young adults in Illinois (by Dr. Abbie Miller, UnitedHealthcare). There’s a community need for early education, prevention, and support resources geared toward high school and college-aged youth in Lake County, especially Waukegan and surrounding communities where access to health education may be limited.
Potential Partners:
- UnitedHealthcare of Illinois (specifically Dr. Abbie Miller’s office).
- Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (North Chicago).
- Local school districts (Waukegan, Gurnee).
- Gurnee Park Districts or Waukegan Park District for event venues.
Next Steps:
- Partner with UnitedHealthcare and local healthcare providers to host informational seminars on cancer prevention, healthy lifestyle habits, and the importance of early screening for youth and young adults.
- Organize a fundraising event aligned with Rotary's health focus month (for example, a youth volleyball tournament or a school wellness fair), with proceeds supporting local cancer screening programs or student-led health initiatives.
- Develop a “Youth Cancer Awareness Ambassadors” program in partnership with area schools, training students as peer educators to spread awareness and health resources throughout their communities.