1. Warm Clothing Drive for Local Youth (Community Health & Youth Support)
Context:
A recent story highlights the ongoing need for winter coats for children in the region, with the Rotary Club of St Charles-Geneva kicking off its 15th annual “Koats for Kids” campaign, aiming to collect 1,000 coats. As cold weather approaches, children in Lake County communities like Gurnee and Waukegan—where economic challenges remain prevalent—will also need warm clothing. Area-specific outreach is particularly important for serving the most vulnerable families.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Gurnee School District 56) for identifying students in need
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (distribution sites in Lake County)
- Other community groups, such as Grace Lutheran Church (Libertyville), who have experience assembling and distributing supplies
- Corporate partners like Target or Walmart (for coat donations or discounts)
Next Steps:
a. Connect with local school administrators and social workers to determine specific needs and numbers of children lacking warm winter clothing.
b. Establish collection sites at community centers, partner churches, and local businesses in Gurnee and Waukegan.
c. Solicit donations from retailers and community members; set a clear deadline and goal for coat collection.
d. Plan a volunteer distribution event in partnership with schools or at a central location in late November or early December.
e. Promote the drive through local news outlets and social media to maximize community participation.
2. Healthy Comfort Foods & Nutrition Education Series (Community Health & Education)
Context:
A recent article by Biz Velatini spotlights plant-based, healthy comfort food recipes for the fall, reflecting growing interest in nutrition and wellness. Food insecurity and diet-related health challenges (such as obesity and diabetes) are ongoing issues in Lake County, particularly among lower-income families in Waukegan and Gurnee. Many may lack knowledge or resources to make healthy, affordable meals at home, especially with rising food prices and limited access to fresh produce.
Potential Partners:
- University of Illinois Extension (nutrition education programs)
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (nutrition outreach and food access)
- Local farmers' markets or community gardens
- Area health departments
Next Steps:
a. Develop a series of hands-on healthy cooking workshops or demonstrations featuring budget-friendly, plant-based comfort foods, hosted at local schools, libraries, or community centers.
b. Partner with nutrition educators to lead classes and provide printed or digital recipe booklets in English and Spanish.
c. Combine events with a “take-home kit” (including key ingredients and informational handouts).
d. Promote the series in partnership with food pantries, schools, and family support agencies in Lake County.
e. Evaluate participation and adapt programming to meet ongoing community interest—potentially expanding to cover other topics like diabetes prevention or shopping on a budget.
These projects address immediate needs and align with Rotary’s focus on youth, health, and education, while fostering community partnerships and long-term impact.
1. Community Health & Water Security: Promoting Household Water Conservation and Safety in Vernon Township
Context:
Lake County officials just celebrated the completion of a $7.5 million water reservoir that will serve 33,000 residents and businesses in Vernon Township. While the new facility improves infrastructure, local leaders have highlighted both the high costs and the vital need for long-term water security. This presents an opportunity to engage the community in sustainable water use, support families facing utility costs, and educate about water safety, directly aligning with Rotary's "community health" and "environment" focus areas.
Potential Partners:
- Village of Vernon Hills and Vernon Township governments
- Lake County Public Works Department
- Local schools and parent-teacher organizations
- Environmental groups such as the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with township officials to develop a household water conservation awareness campaign and distribute low-cost/water-saving devices (e.g., faucet aerators, leak repair kits).
- Host educational workshops at community centers and schools with hands-on demonstrations on water safety and conservation.
- Organize a fundraiser or apply for Rotary grants to assist low-income families with utility bills caused by the transition, or secure funding for in-home water testing kits and repairs for vulnerable households.
- Engage high school environmental clubs as volunteers for outreach and peer education.
2. Youth Empowerment & Literacy: ‘Banned Books’ Community Reading Initiative
Context:
A recent local editorial called for the reading of banned books as a “revolutionary act,” in response to ongoing censorship debates. Nationally and locally, there has been increased pressure on school and public libraries to remove certain materials. Launching a Rotary-sponsored community reading initiative focused on banned and challenged books supports "basic education and literacy" and "peacebuilding and conflict prevention" by celebrating diverse voices, critical thinking, and freedom of expression.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library (Gurnee)
- Local independent bookstores
- School librarians and teachers
- Youth-led advocacy organizations (such as local chapters of the Illinois Youth and Government program)
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with libraries to host a ‘Banned Books Week’ event, including public readings, discussions with local authors, and book giveaways.
- Sponsor classroom sets of frequently challenged books for area schools to broaden access.
- Arrange for student essay or art contests addressing the importance of intellectual freedom, to be recognized at a community event.
- Seek partnerships with local media to raise awareness and foster dialogue around intellectual freedom and inclusion.
- Explore fundraising opportunities (book sales, silent auctions) to support library programs or donate books to underserved youth.
Rotary Service/Fundraising Opportunities for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL
1. Youth Literacy and Academic Achievement Support Program
Context:
The recent success of Visharad Sathish, a Lake County seventh grader from Grayslake, at the Lake County Regional Spelling Bee highlights a strong interest and talent in academic competitions among local students. With participation from 73 Lake County schools and leadership from educators like Ashley Whitaker (John Lewis Middle School, Waukegan) and the involvement of the Lake County Regional Office of Education (ROE) and Superintendent Michael Karner, there is clear community support for youth education and literacy. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on supporting education and youth.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (Superintendent Michael Karner, Assistant Superintendent Courtney Curry)
- Local middle and elementary schools (e.g., John Lewis Middle School, Lake Forest Country Day School, Matthews Middle School, Grayslake schools)
- School literacy and reading clubs
- Local libraries
- Parent-teacher associations
- Area businesses willing to provide sponsorships or prizes
Next Steps:
- Meet with the Lake County ROE and local school leadership to discuss creating or expanding spelling bees, reading competitions, and mentorship/tutoring programs with Rotary volunteer support.
- Organize a fundraising event (“Spell-a-thon” or “Read-a-thon”) to supply books, scholarship prizes, or digital resource subscriptions for students with financial needs or for school libraries.
- Recruit Rotary members as volunteer coaches, judges, or event organizers, and provide additional prizes for participants and finalists.
- Collaborate with local businesses for sponsorship and to help cover travel expenses for students representing the county at national competitions in Washington, D.C., or similar academic events.
2. Youth Leadership and Mentoring Partnership Initiative
Context:
The lengthy and spirited spelling bee competition, as well as the mentorship provided by previous participants (such as Visharad’s older brother Sahasrad’s coaching), underscores a need and enthusiasm for structured, peer-led academic and leadership development opportunities. Local educators have noted the wider benefits of spelling bees and similar challenges for youth engagement and confidence-building.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County high school and middle school honor societies
- Local universities or community colleges with education programs
- Alumni from academic competitions (spelling bee finalists, mathletes, debate team members)
- Youth leadership organizations (e.g., Scouts, Boys & Girls Clubs, afterschool programs)
- Local businesses that support youth development
Next Steps:
- Establish a Rotary-sponsored interschool mentorship initiative where high-achieving students (like former spelling bee competitors) mentor younger students in both academic and personal growth skills, with periodic workshops or leadership camps.
- Host a “Youth Success Summit” in partnership with the ROE, area schools, and civic organizations, focusing on resiliency, study skills, public speaking, and leadership (drawing guest speakers such as Superintendent Karner, local educators, and prior competition champions).
- Develop an annual scholarship fund or recognition award, administered by Rotary and selected by a committee including partner organizations, to celebrate and support Lake County youth exemplifying academic achievement, mentorship, and leadership.
- Launch a community awareness campaign (“Celebrate Lake County Achievers”) to inspire more families and students to participate in academic or leadership-building initiatives, increasing equity and access.
Both projects directly support Rotary’s focus areas of education and youth development, meet identified local needs, and leverage current community momentum and awareness.
1. Lake County Water Safety & Emergency Response Initiative
Rotary Area of Focus: Community health, saving mothers & children, disease prevention, and disaster response
Context:
There has been a recent boating accident on Fox Lake in Lake County where one man remains missing after being thrown from a boat, while another was rescued (“Search Continues For Man Thrown From Boat In Lake County: Police”). This incident underscores the need for improved water safety education, emergency preparedness, and access to life-saving equipment on area lakes—especially given the popularity of boating and water sports in the community. Additionally, a recent collision resulting in a motorcyclist’s leg being severed further highlights the importance of accident preparedness and emergency response training throughout Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit
- Fox Lake Fire Protection District
- Local YMCA and boating clubs (e.g., Fox Waterway Agency)
- Area hospitals and emergency medical services
- Scout troops and youth organizations
Next Steps:
- Organize water safety workshops for youth and adults, focusing on life jacket usage, boating rules, and rescue techniques.
- Fundraise for and distribute life jackets or throw rings at major boat ramps and rental businesses.
- Collaborate with emergency services to host CPR/first aid certification drives—potentially in conjunction with local hospital staff.
- Launch a public awareness campaign on social media and with physical signage at lakes regarding water safety.
- Invite local high school students to help design safety signage as a Rotary-sponsored contest, fostering community engagement and youth service.
2. Mobile Food Pantry and Family Wellness Day
Rotary Area of Focus: Community health, fighting disease, supporting education, growing local economies
Context:
Recent reports highlight a surge in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, including those in Lake County, signaling increasing food insecurity locally (“Chicago-Area Food Pantries See Spike In Visits Over Past Year”). Economic pressures persist while vulnerable families, especially those with children, face limited access to healthy food as well as preventive health resources. The honor given to a local breast cancer patient at a Bears game also points to ongoing community concern for health and wellness.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank and local food pantries (e.g., Warren Township Food Pantry in Gurnee, COOL Ministries in Waukegan)
- Local churches and civic groups
- Healthcare partners such as Advocate Aurora Health, Lake County Health Department
- Schools (for outreach to families)
- Area businesses that can sponsor or contribute nutritious food items or wellness resources
Next Steps:
- Plan a monthly or bi-monthly Mobile Food Pantry event in partnership with Northern Illinois Food Bank, rotating between Gurnee, Waukegan, and other high-need areas.
- Integrate free health screenings (blood pressure, glucose, breast cancer awareness information) through local clinics and nurses on-site.
- Provide health education for families, including COVID-19 vaccine updates and resources, nutritional advice, and connections to local healthcare.
- Collect donations of healthy, shelf-stable foods, hygiene supplies, and new children’s books for distribution.
- Develop a volunteer sign-up and logistics plan, inviting local high school Interact clubs to participate and serve their communities.
Both projects directly target current, documented needs in Lake County and leverage Rotary’s strength in mobilizing community partnerships and resources for sustainable impact.
Based on recent news and the events calendar in Grayslake and the surrounding Lake County area, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Health & Resource Accessibility: Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair (Nov 15, 1:00 pm, 122 Hawthorn Ctr, Vernon Hills)
Context:
This November’s “Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair” focuses on neurodiversity, likely supporting families with neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, and related conditions. Given the ongoing, growing needs for accessible resources, inclusive events, and health education in Lake County, there is clear community demand for awareness and hands-on support.
Potential Partners:
- Neuro Universe and fair organizers
- Local healthcare providers and clinics
- Autism Society of Illinois, NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Special education departments at Grayslake and Vernon Hills area schools
Next Steps:
- Connect with the Neuro Universe event organizers to offer Rotary support: volunteer staffing, event promotion, or logistical help.
- Set up a Rotary-sponsored booth providing free sensory kits, educational resources, or screening resources for families.
- Organize a follow-up Rotary community info night on neurodiversity, inviting local experts.
- Consider fundraising for scholarships to local neurodiversity summer programs or sensory-friendly toolkits for classrooms.
2. Environment & Community Engagement: Fall Grayslake Farmers Market (Oct 11, 10:00 am, North Whitney St & Center St, Grayslake)
Context:
The Grayslake Farmers Market is a trusted community event fostering local food systems and environmental sustainability. With growing awareness of climate change and environmental stewardship in Lake County, partnering with the market supports Rotary’s environment and economic development focus.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Farmers Market organizers
- Local environmental groups: Conserve Lake County, Liberty Prairie Foundation
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Local schools’ eco-clubs
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with market organizers to host a Rotary “Green Booth” providing education on recycling, composting, and sustainable home practices.
- Launch a community initiative (possibly a fundraiser) to distribute native trees or pollinator plants to attendees.
- Recruit volunteers and school groups for a “Clean Up Our Downtown” day coinciding with the market.
- Create a social media campaign highlighting local farmers and Rotary’s environmental initiatives.
- Follow up with a Rotary-hosted workshop or Earth Day event in the spring to sustain momentum.
By seizing these timely opportunities, Rotary can meaningfully address local health and environmental needs, build new partnerships, and enhance visibility and impact in the Grayslake/Waukegan/Lake County region.
Based on recent news and developments in Lake County, Illinois—including Gurnee, Waukegan, and the surrounding communities—here are two Rotary service or fundraising project ideas that align with Rotary’s areas of focus and address current local needs:
1. “Inclusive Communities” Resource Fair and Ongoing Support Initiative
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community Health, Supporting Education, and Inclusion
Context:
A recent story highlights Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board’s campaign to make residents aware of supportive services for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. There is ongoing need for promoting awareness, inclusion, and access to local resources for this community.
Potential Partners:
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- NSSED (Northern Suburban Special Education District)
- Local schools (e.g., Woodlands Academy, local public high schools)
- Community organizations serving people with disabilities (e.g., NorthPointe Resources, Clearbrook, Lake County Center for Independent Living)
- Local businesses willing to provide employment, sponsorship, or accessible services
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with key partners to discuss gaps and needs in the current support structure.
- Organize an “Inclusive Communities Resource Fair” where families and individuals connect with local services, employment pathways, educational opportunities, adaptive recreation, and health resources.
- Secure sponsorship and volunteers from the Rotary network.
- Consider extending the fair into an ongoing mentorship or service program (Rotarians serving as inclusion champions, career coaches, or resource navigators).
- Publicize through local schools, municipal channels, and Patch news.
2. Cancer Awareness and Early Detection Outreach Campaign
Rotary Areas of Focus: Disease Prevention and Treatment
Context:
Local reports cite rising rates of certain cancers among younger adults in Illinois, per Dr. Abbie Miller of UnitedHealthcare of Illinois. Early detection and education are crucial, but barriers persist around health literacy, access, and stigma.
Potential Partners:
- UnitedHealthcare of Illinois
- Lake County Health Department
- Advocate Aurora Health, NorthShore University HealthSystem (local hospital providers)
- Area community centers (Gorton Center, Waukegan Public Library)
- School districts for youth/family outreach
Next Steps:
- Contact UnitedHealthcare and local health providers for data and collaboration on high-impact outreach.
- Launch a Rotary-led “Cancer Aware Lake County” campaign, featuring educational workshops, free screening events (mammograms, skin checks, colon cancer kits), and distribution of multilingual health materials.
- Engage youth ambassadors from local high schools and the League of Women Voters to assist with campaign logistics and community engagement.
- Seek grant funding or local business sponsorship to cover medical costs for residents without adequate insurance or financial barriers.
- Evaluate impact and publish annual results to local news and Rotary channels to increase participation, outreach, and funding sustainability.
These projects leverage existing local initiatives and relationships, directly address immediate needs highlighted in recent news, and embody Rotary’s commitment to health, education, and inclusive communities.
1. Youth and Family Violence Prevention & Support Initiative
Context:
Recent news from Libertyville and neighboring communities has included disturbing incidents involving violence affecting families and youth, such as the woman attacked while her toddler was present (Libertyville, October 2023), and a reported case where a Gurnee resident injured his 68-year-old mother. These incidents highlight a pressing need for more community support around youth safety, domestic violence prevention, and family mental health.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Peacebuilding and conflict prevention, maternal and child health, disease prevention and treatment (mental health focus).
Potential Partners: - A Safe Place - Lake County: Local organization offering comprehensive services for families impacted by domestic violence. - Lake County Health Department: For mental health resources and parenting workshops. - Local school districts (e.g., Gurnee District 56, Waukegan Public Schools): To reach youth and families directly. - Police Departments in Gurnee, Waukegan, Libertyville: Collaboration for prevention programs and safe community events.
Next Steps: - Convene a planning meeting with A Safe Place and the Lake County Health Department to identify current service gaps for at-risk youth and families. - Develop and sponsor community workshops on conflict resolution, healthy parenting, and youth mental health first aid. - Organize a family resource fair bringing together agencies, with Rotary leading as the event sponsor and volunteer coordinator. - Pursue district or Rotary Foundation grant funding to enhance services such as emergency shelter kits, counseling sessions, or youth mentorship programs.
2. Youth and Community Road Safety Campaign (“Safe Streets for All”)
Context:
Recent Lake County news notes a number of traffic-related incidents including drunk driving with a child in the car (Deerfield) and a Libertyville crash resulting in life-threatening injuries for a motorcyclist. These underscore the need to address traffic safety, educate youth on responsible behavior, and support accident prevention, especially as communities see changes in laws affecting road use (e.g., Libertyville’s electric bike/scooter ban).
Rotary Areas of Focus: Disease prevention and treatment (injury prevention), basic education, supporting the environment (safer, walkable communities).
Potential Partners: - Lake County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments - IDOT (Illinois Department of Transportation) – Division of Safety Programs - Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Illinois Chapter - Local PTAs and school safety committees - Bike Lake County and advocacy groups for pedestrians/cyclists
Next Steps: - Initiate a "Safe Streets for All" campaign with local government endorsement, focusing on distracted/drunk driving, child passenger safety, and pedestrian/bike safety. - Host educational assemblies in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Libertyville schools, bringing in law enforcement and survivor speakers. - Organize a “Family Safety Day” with child car seat checks, helmet fittings, e-bike safety demos, and safe driving pledges. - Mobilize Rotary members as volunteers and event marshals, and develop fundraising for items like bike helmets, reflective gear, and educational materials. - Coordinate with local media to broaden campaign reach and encourage local businesses to sponsor awareness materials.
These initiatives are tailored to address the acute needs evidenced in current news, while also harnessing Rotary’s strengths in partnership, fundraising, and hands-on service.