1. Rotary Home Repairs & Safety Initiative (Community Health, Housing)
Context:
A recent report details a local family’s challenges after buying an “as is” home in Lake County and subsequently discovering significant plumbing issues, including improper hot water piping. This situation reflects a broader challenge faced by low- and moderate-income residents in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding areas—hidden home repair needs undermining both health (e.g., sanitation, mold, lack of hot water) and family stability.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Community Action Partnership
- Local housing authorities
- Gurnee and Waukegan public works departments
- Area plumbing/HVAC contractor associations
- High school vocational programs (for student volunteering)
- Habitat for Humanity Lake County
Next Steps:
- Convene planning sessions with community housing organizations to gauge need and identify priority households.
- Recruit skilled volunteers and negotiate with local businesses for donated materials or labor discounts, especially from plumbing and heating trades.
- Launch a twice-yearly “Rotary Restore Day” focused on urgent repairs for seniors, veterans, and low-income families prioritizing critical health and safety.
- Publicize the opportunity through local news, social media, and by partnering with neighborhood groups, city governments, and school counselors.
- Incorporate educational workshops (e.g., simple home maintenance, identifying repair scams) for homeowners during events.
2. Mental Health Resilience Workshop Series for Youth & Families (Community Health, Youth, Education)
Context:
The Naperville Rotary’s successful “Resilience Tactics Workshop” for families of veterans and first responders (reported October 14, 2025) highlights a model that can be adapted to local needs. Given concerns over rising stress, trauma, and mental health struggles among youth and families in Lake County—exacerbated by economic stress, violence, and uncertainty—a similar program serves a pressing need.
Potential Partners:
- Schools in Gurnee (e.g., Warren Township High School), Waukegan, and Lake County
- Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center, Lake County
- Lake County Health Department Behavioral Services
- Northern Illinois Counseling
- Youth advisory boards (high school and college)
- Local mental health professionals
Next Steps:
- Secure partnership with a local school district or community center to host sessions.
- Adapt curriculum from the Naperville Rotary model, focusing on coping resilience, recognizing the signs of mental health distress, and connecting to local resources.
- Promote workshops through schools, social workers, newsletters, and youth clubs, with translation and accessibility accommodations as needed.
- Train Rotary members and volunteers in basic trauma-informed facilitation.
- Evaluate impact and community needs post-pilot for program expansion, including the possibility of annual youth resilience summits.
These two project ideas support Rotary’s areas of focus by improving both the physical and mental well-being of Lake County residents, and offer immediate and sustainable impact by addressing local needs identified in recent reports.
1. Supporting Families Impacted by Increased Immigration Enforcement (Rotary Focus: Community Health & Peacebuilding)
Context:
Recent news reports indicate that federal immigration enforcement activity has sharply increased in Lake County, with multiple arrests in Waukegan, North Chicago, and Gurnee. This unprecedented action has created acute anxiety and hardship among immigrant families—some face sudden separation, while others are struggling to access basic needs, legal aid, and mental health support. The climate risks isolating children and youth, disrupting their education, and overwhelming local nonprofits.
Potential Partners:
- HACES (Hispanic American Community Education & Services) in Waukegan
- Mano a Mano Family Resource Center
- Local churches (e.g., St. Anastasia Catholic Church, Iglesia Emanuel)
- Legal Aid Chicago
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with the above community partners to identify the most urgent family and youth support needs arising from recent enforcement actions (e.g., emergency funds, legal clinics, translation/transportation help, school support).
- Organize a Rotary-led fundraiser, such as a community dinner or online giving campaign, with proceeds to be split between emergency family assistance and youth mental health initiatives.
- Launch a “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” volunteer drive to recruit Rotarians and community volunteers for interpretation, emergency supply drives, and transportation to legal appointments.
- Coordinate with local schools to support children traumatized or destabilized by these events, possibly through after-school or tutoring programs, in collaboration with Rotaract and Interact youth clubs.
2. Promoting Safe Youth Activities and Community Cohesion (Rotary Focus: Youth, Peacebuilding, Community Development)
Context:
Recent headlines highlight both positive and troubling youth events in Lake County. On one hand, family-friendly celebrations like Gurnee’s Halloween Fun Fest draw wide participation and foster safe spaces for families. On the other, there has been a fatal shooting at a local birthday party in Ingleside, underscoring the ongoing need for violence prevention, youth engagement, and safe recreational opportunities.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District
- Gurnee Park District
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
- Warren Township High School (home to standout student-athletes)
- Local police and community policing liaisons
Next Steps:
- Collaborate to co-host a “Youth Unity & Wellness Fair” that combines recreational activities (sports, arts, Halloween/fall-themed events) with upstream violence prevention education and mental health resources.
- Engage local athletes—such as Warren Township High School standouts or even members of the Brisker family—to promote positive role models.
- Include a “Speak Up/Speak Out” forum for youth perspectives on safety and inclusion, with support from Rotaract/Interact leadership.
- Use this event as a platform for a fundraising campaign supporting safe youth spaces, such as after-school clubs, mentorship programs, or scholarships to sports leagues.
- Post-event, develop a task force with law enforcement, schools, and community organizations to sustain anti-violence and youth engagement programming year-round.
These two opportunities directly address urgent local needs and embody Rotary’s commitment to service above self, dialogue, and community-building.
1. Youth Education & Literacy: “Spellbound for Success”—Supporting Local Students in Academic Competitions
Context:
Lake County’s Visharad Sathish, a 12-year-old seventh grader, recently won the marathon Lake County Regional Spelling Bee and is headed to the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This highlights not only Visharad’s achievement but a surge of academic enthusiasm among hundreds of students from 73 schools involved in the local competitions. Educators and families in Lake County are eager to celebrate academic achievement and inspire literacy, but many gifted students face barriers to participating in these enrichment opportunities, such as travel and registration costs.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts and PTAs
- Waukegan Public Library & Gurnee Public Library
- Local businesses (especially those with a focus on education or youth)
- Other youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Clubs)
Next Steps:
- Organize an annual “Spellbound for Success” fundraiser to underwrite costs for academic competition participants (spelling, math, science fairs), provide resource materials, and celebrate local achievers with an awards event.
- Collaborate with local schools to identify students with financial need.
- Engage libraries and education foundations to co-host literacy workshops and spelling bee prep programs, increasing broader access and participation.
- Invite business sponsors and community leaders as event partners, judges, and mentors.
2. Community Health & Safety: “Safe Routes—School Bus & Child Safety Program”
Context:
A recent report highlights the adoption of a new Waukegan schools app that tracks students’ buses, giving families greater peace of mind regarding student transportation and safety. With growing concern about child safety during commutes (highlighted by the enthusiastic local media coverage and school communication), there is an opportunity to help further enhance community safety and children’s well-being.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 and other area school districts
- Local law enforcement (Waukegan, Gurnee police departments)
- Parent-teacher associations and school transportation coordinators
- App developers/tech volunteers
- Local hospitals and pediatricians
Next Steps:
- Host a community “Safe Routes” workshop series for parents, bus drivers, and students focusing on transportation safety, digital literacy for using new safety apps, and peer-to-peer safety ambassadors—aligning with Rotary’s commitment to health, safety, and youth empowerment.
- Provide grants or donated tech devices (tablets/phones) for families who lack access, enhancing equity.
- Collaborate with app developers to troubleshoot or propose improvements based on community feedback gathered at Rotary-sponsored forums.
- Establish a recognition program for “Safety Champions” among students and bus drivers, building positive culture and community ownership.
1. Community Food Drive & Support for Local Food Pantries
Context:
Recent news reports indicate that food pantries in the Chicago area, including Grayslake and surrounding Lake County communities, are experiencing a significant increase in visits over the past year. This reflects growing food insecurity among local families and individuals, aligning with Rotary’s focus area of supporting community health and fighting hunger.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (serves Lake County)
- Local pantries such as the Warren Township Food Pantry, COOL Ministries in Waukegan, and Avon Township Food Pantry
- Grayslake and Waukegan schools (for student and family outreach)
- Area grocery stores such as Jewel-Osco or Mariano’s (for donation drop-off and corporate support)
Next Steps:
- Meet with representatives of major local food pantries to assess current needs and gaps, especially ahead of the holidays when demand spikes.
- Organize a multi-location Rotary-run food drive, engaging schools, businesses, and civic organizations as co-collection points.
- Launch a public awareness campaign, potentially partnering with Patch Media and local press for promotion.
- Schedule Rotary volunteers for delivery and assistance at pantry distribution days and consider ongoing “adopt a shelf” or monthly support.
- Explore grant or matching gift opportunities for both food and monetary donations through the Rotary Foundation or local sponsors.
2. Safe Communities Youth Intervention & Education Initiative
Context:
Recent tragic events, including a fatal birthday party shooting involving teenagers in Ingleside in Lake County, point to serious challenges facing youth regarding violence and safety. This situation calls for proactive youth intervention and education on conflict resolution, safety, and support resources. Such a program addresses Rotary’s focus areas of peace & conflict prevention and supporting youth development.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools and middle schools (e.g., Grayslake Central/South, Waukegan High School)
- Lake County Regional Office of Education and Youth Services of Lake County
- Local law enforcement, Grayslake and Waukegan police departments
- Organizations such as YouthBuild Lake County, Boys & Girls Club, and faith-based youth centers
Next Steps:
- Convene a listening session or roundtable with youth, school counselors, and community safety officers to identify pressing needs, misconceptions, and gaps in existing programming.
- Develop a Rotary-sponsored “Safe Communities” workshop series for youth and parents, including topics on conflict de-escalation, mental health resources, and the dangers of gun violence.
- Coordinate with law enforcement for positive engagement activities (e.g., sports or arts events with officers and teens) and seek professional speakers or survivors to share their stories.
- Seek grants or funding to provide incentives, educational materials, and food for participants, and collaborate with local media to highlight success stories and promote ongoing dialogue.
Based on recent and upcoming events in Gurnee, Waukegan, and wider Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service and fundraising project ideas that address clear community needs and Rotary’s focus areas:
1. Community Health and Resource Fair at the Lake County Home Show
Context:
The "HUGE, FREE Lake County Home Show" at the Lake County Fairgrounds (October 25 & 26) attracts a large and diverse audience from the county, offering an excellent opportunity to meet residents where they are. Health disparities and limited access to health information/resources persist in Lake County, particularly in lower income and underserved populations (such as nearby parts of Waukegan and Round Lake).
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department & Community Health Center
- Vista Health System (Waukegan)
- Advocate Condell Medical Center
- Local pharmacies (e.g., Walgreens, CVS)
- Community organizations such as Mano a Mano Family Resource Center and the Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
Recommended Project:
Host a "Community Health & Resource Fair" as a featured area/booth within the Home Show. Rotary volunteers could coordinate:
- Free flu shots or basic screenings (blood pressure, blood sugar, vision)
- Mental Health information sessions and resource giveaways
- Distribution of information on local clinics, food banks, and social services
- Child safety & wellness materials, e.g., nutrition, dental care
Fundraising Element:
Invite optional donations (with matching opportunities from Home Show vendors/businesses) to support local food pantries or cover future health fairs.
Next Steps:
- Immediately contact the Lake County Home Show organizers to secure space/permission for a Rotary health fair booth
- Reach out to local healthcare partners for volunteers and resources/screening personnel
- Coordinate with community agencies for resource materials and service referrals
- Recruit and schedule Rotary volunteers for both days
- Promote via Patch, social media, school newsletters, and Home Show ads
2. Neurodiversity/Disability Awareness and Support at the Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair
Context:
The "Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair" (November 15, 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills) highlights local needs around neurodiversity and disabilities—an area that has grown in community conversations, especially post-pandemic, as families navigate support for children and adults with autism, dyslexia, ADHD, and other conditions.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (e.g., Grayslake North High School)
- Autism Society of Illinois
- Special Recreation Associations of Lake County
- Advocate Medical Group’s behavioral health programs
- Parent support organizations such as JCC’s Inclusion Services
Recommended Project:
Rotary could sponsor a "Neurodiversity Inclusion Microgrant Fund" and provide hands-on event support:
- Raise funds leading up to and during the Resource Fair (through social media and at the event) to create a grant program benefiting families in need of equipment, therapy, or camp/school experiences for neurodiverse children in Lake County
- Host a booth on Rotary’s inclusion initiatives, sensory toy donations, and share resources for families
Next Steps:
- Contact Neuro Universe Fair organizers to confirm partnership and booth availability
- Set up a Rotary fundraiser page and begin pre-event virtual campaign
- Coordinate with partner agencies to identify specific funding/equipment needs
- Design print and digital awareness materials about neurodiversity and Rotary’s mission
- Schedule Rotary volunteers for event day and organize a sensory-friendly activity at the booth to attract families
Both initiatives would visibly support Rotary’s core areas: community health, education, and support for children/youth, while deepening ties with Lake County partners and raising Rotary’s positive profile in the region.
1. Community Health & Immigrant Support Initiative in Waukegan
Context:
A recent news item highlighted the intervention of Waukegan’s Mayor when a U.S. citizen was detained by Border Patrol agents near city hall. This underscores ongoing anxiety and vulnerabilities for immigrant and diverse communities in Waukegan and Lake County. There is a local need for health access, mental wellness, and know-your-rights outreach, particularly for immigrant families who may feel isolated or underserved.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Mayor’s Office
- Local immigrant advocacy groups (e.g., Mano a Mano Family Resource Center)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local schools and faith communities
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with the Mayor’s liaison and Mano a Mano to assess needs and existing supports.
- Organize a Rotary-hosted “Wellness and Rights Resource Fair” providing free flu shots, basic health screenings, access to local resources, and “know your rights” workshops for residents, in partnership with clinics and legal experts.
- Fundraise through a fall benefit dinner; highlight stories of local families and invite community leaders to engage donors and raise public awareness.
- Measure impact via participant feedback and follow-up support connections.
2. Youth Enrichment and Opportunity Fund for Lake County Students
Context:
Lake County includes both highly affluent and under-resourced areas. While the prestigious Woodlands Academy received accolades (Niche 2026 rankings), there are many local youth in less privileged circumstances who lack access to quality extracurricular and educational programs. Additionally, with the Chicago Marathon participation story, there’s a potential to connect fitness, youth, and community service.
Potential Partners:
- Local schools and PTAs, including Waukegan and Gurnee districts
- Woodlands Academy student leadership groups
- Local running clubs and Chicago Marathon alumni
- Youth-serving organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Launch a “Rotary Youth Opportunity Fund” to provide scholarships for extracurriculars (sports, arts, STEM), enrichment camps, and leadership retreats for low-income students.
- Coordinate a fundraising “Community Fun Run/Walk” event, leveraging recent marathon interest; invite local runners, students, and sponsors.
- Develop a mini-grant program with school counselors to identify and award youth most in need.
- Evaluate outcomes by tracking participation rates and student testimonials, reporting results at a Rotary/community meeting.
1. Project: Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence and Family Trauma
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health, Maternal and Child Health, Peace and Conflict Prevention
Context:
Recent news from Libertyville reports a tragic incident: a man stole an SUV with a 2-year-old boy inside and attacked his pregnant mother, seriously injuring her. While she and the child are now reportedly healthy, the violence highlights urgent local needs: support for survivors of domestic violence, expanded resources for children and mothers affected by trauma, and heightened community awareness.
Potential Partners: - A Safe Place (Zion, IL): Lake County's leading provider of services to survivors of domestic violence. - Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office (Victim Support Services). - Lake County Health Department. - Local police departments (Gurnee, Waukegan, Libertyville). - Faith-based groups and schools for safe spaces and resource connections.
Next Steps: - Connect with A Safe Place to identify top needs (e.g., emergency shelter kits, counseling funds, childcare for survivors). - Organize a Rotary fundraising event (community walk, benefit dinner, or online auction) with proceeds going to direct victim support. - Include an educational workshop on domestic violence prevention and services, inviting law enforcement and health experts to speak. - Explore ongoing Rotary volunteer opportunities, such as assisting with shelter repairs, donation drives for clothes/toiletries, or mentorship programs. - Promote the event in collaboration with local churches, businesses, and schools to mobilize broad community support.
2. Project: Youth Engagement and Safe Mobility in Light of E-Bike and Scooter Ban
Rotary Area of Focus: Youth Services, Community Development, Environment
Context:
Libertyville recently passed an ordinance banning electric bikes and scooters in parks and downtown areas due to safety and community concerns. However, e-bikes and scooters provide youth and lower-income residents with affordable, green transportation. The ban underscores a need for positive youth engagement and education on mobility safety, as well as alternative eco-friendly activities.
Potential Partners: - Libertyville Parks and Recreation Department. - Middle and high schools in Libertyville, Gurnee, and Waukegan. - Active Transportation Alliance (Chicago-based nonprofit). - Environmental groups (e.g., Lake County Forest Preserves). - Local bike shops and mobility businesses.
Next Steps: - Host a Rotary-sponsored Youth Mobility Safety Fair: include hands-on bike safety classes, helmet giveaways, and education on responsible e-bike/scooter use. - Offer alternative structured youth programs—such as a “bike rodeo,” guided nature rides, or green commuting challenges—promoting safe, healthy outdoor activity. - Collaborate with schools to identify youth interested in eco-friendly transportation and gather input for future community projects or infrastructure planning. - Work with the Parks Department and Active Transportation Alliance on public information sessions about micro-mobility, safety infrastructure, and environmental benefits. - Seek grants or local business sponsorships to subsidize helmets, lights, bike repairs, or safe storage solutions for youth.
These projects respond directly to recent events and community needs in Lake County, and align with Rotary’s core mission of service and sustainable impact.