Based on the recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, two viable Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that align with Rotary’s areas of focus and current community needs are:
1. Community Assistance for Households Facing Higher Utility Costs (Area of Focus: Community Economic Development, Supporting the Environment)
Context:
A recent regulatory proposal before the Illinois Commerce Commission could lead to higher natural gas bills across Illinois. Many Lake County residents, including those in Gurnee and Waukegan, could be affected by these increased costs, especially lower-income and elderly households. Rising utility costs can lead to increased food insecurity and housing instability during the winter months.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Community Action Partnership
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local senior centers (such as Waukegan Township Park Place)
- Energy outreach organizations (e.g., ComEd CARE, NICOR Gas Sharing Program)
- Local faith communities
Next Steps:
- Organize a public forum or workshop in partnership with local agencies to inform residents about expected rate increases and resources for utility assistance.
- Conduct a fundraising drive or “Gift of Warmth” campaign, soliciting donations to help offset utility bills for vulnerable families.
- Mobilize Rotary volunteers to assist with application clinics for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) and related aid.
- Consider adding an environmental component by distributing information on energy efficiency and weatherization (in partnership with energy companies), or by organizing volunteer teams to install simple, energy-saving devices in the homes of seniors or low-income residents.
2. Youth Engagement and Support Through Sports and Wellness (Area of Focus: Supporting Education and Youth, Disease Prevention/Health)
Context:
The news highlights strong community engagement around local high school sports, such as Glenbard North, Lyons Township, and Prairie Ridge achieving notable football successes. Youth sports are a key part of the community, offering opportunities for leadership development, physical health, and positive social interaction. However, many youth in Waukegan and Gurnee face barriers to participation, including fees, equipment costs, and access to safe playing spaces.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools’ athletic departments
- Waukegan Park District and Gurnee Park District
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
- Local health clinics and youth wellness groups
- Sporting goods retailers for equipment donations (e.g., Dick’s Sporting Goods, Play It Again Sports)
Next Steps:
- Launch a “Sports from the Heart” fundraiser to provide fee waivers, uniforms, and equipment for economically disadvantaged students.
- Collaborate with school coaches and the Park District to host inclusive sports clinics or health & wellness fairs, focusing on physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health for youth.
- Arrange for Rotary volunteers to mentor at-risk youth through sports-related team-building events.
- Explore partnerships with local health organizations to provide free physicals and wellness screenings at Rotary-sponsored sports events.
By pursuing these projects, the Rotary Club can meet immediate and long-term needs—helping vulnerable neighbors stay warm and supporting local youth in building healthy, engaged futures.
1. “Healthy Families, Healthy Futures” Food Security & Wellness Program
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health, Basic Needs
Context: Recent news highlights increased immigration enforcement across Lake County, particularly Waukegan and Gurnee. This has led to fear and instability for many local families, with some pushing for remote school options to protect children, and hundreds participating in pro-immigrant unity rallies. There is also mention of Abbott’s local program providing food and backpacks to families in need. Both underscore heightened food insecurity and social stress, especially among vulnerable and immigrant populations.
Potential Partners:
- Abbott (local corporate sponsor already running food distribution program)
- Waukegan Township’s Coalition to Reduce Recidivism (experienced in community outreach)
- Local churches and faith groups (recently active in neighborhood support and advocacy)
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
Next Steps:
- Convene a joint planning meeting with Abbott and township partners to assess most urgent food and wellness gaps, especially among immigrant and mixed-status families.
- Organize monthly food distribution & health resource fairs at rotating safe locations (e.g., local churches, schools).
- Recruit bilingual volunteers for peer support, wellness checks, and help connecting families to local services.
- Build in health education modules (immunizations, preventive care, stress management) in collaboration with health department—potential tie-in with upcoming flu/COVID clinics.
- Initiate targeted fundraising through both corporate giving and a community “5K for Families” event, inviting local businesses as sponsors.
- Measure impact via distributed food, resource referrals, and wellness surveys, and report quarterly to partners and donors.
2. Lake County Urban Greening & Youth Stewardship Project
Rotary Area of Focus: Environment, Youth & Community Development
Context: A recent project by a Waukegan church planted trees in an underserved neighborhood, while the Lake Bluff nature group campaigns for stricter regulations on garden insecticides. There are also cost barriers to neighborhood greening ($500-700 per tree cited) and strong grassroots energy for community beautification. Climate, air quality, and neighborhood vibrancy are linked to both health and youth opportunity.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan-area churches, e.g., The Rev. José Landaverde’s congregation (already tree-planting)
- Lake Bluff Open Lands Association (advocates for native planting and pesticide reduction)
- School eco-clubs from Waukegan, Gurnee, and Lake County districts
- Lake County Forest Preserves (potential technical support, seedlings, and education resources)
- Local businesses (Home Depot, nursery centers for in-kind support)
Next Steps:
- Launch a “Rotary Roots” youth-led tree planting and native habitat program in partnership with local schools and churches.
- Secure grants and local sponsorships to cover the cost of trees/planting supplies, with a goal of planting 100+ native trees/shrubs in public spaces and underserved blocks over 12 months.
- Incorporate youth eco-stewardship, training teens on tree and pollinator garden care, environmental leadership, and the health benefits of greening.
- Host community planting days, pairing volunteers and families with tree experts, and providing education on pesticide-free gardening (leveraging Lake Bluff nature group’s expertise).
- Publicize the program through local media/social channels, showcasing youth impact stories to encourage additional support and participation.
- Collect data on trees planted, youth engaged, and environmental improvements to report to sponsors and the community.
1. Youth Literacy and Education Enhancement Program
Context: Lake County seventh-grader Visharad Sathish’s recent triumph in the Lake County Regional Spelling Bee—and his upcoming journey to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.—highlights both the achievements and the academic aspirations of local youth. With 73 Lake County schools and hundreds of students participating, it’s clear there is widespread interest in academic enrichment and literacy.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (including Gurnee and Waukegan public schools)
- The Scripps National Spelling Bee organization
- Local libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library)
- Tutoring centers and literacy non-profits
Next Steps:
- Host a county-wide “Words Matter” fundraising event (such as a community spelling bee for adults, trivia night, or Read-a-Thon) to raise funds for literacy programs and provide scholarships or sponsor participation fees for under-resourced students.
- Develop an ongoing mentorship program involving Rotary members, volunteers, and past spelling bee winners who can coach and encourage younger students.
- Collaborate with libraries and schools to host literacy workshops, author visits, or provide resources for students learning English as a second language.
- Publicly recognize students like Visharad Sathish at Rotary Club meetings and through local press to inspire others and forge strong youth partnerships.
2. Community Health and Youth Wellness Fair
Context:
Recent news coverage in Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, has seen attention to stress among youth and the importance of balance between academic achievement and well-being (“This is no different than a sport,” as the spelling bee winner’s parent noted). As families push for academic success, there is growing community awareness around the need for health, emotional support, and access to resources.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Schools' Parent-Teacher Associations
- Local youth mental health organizations (e.g., Lake County Youth Services)
- Park districts and recreational centers
- Local hospitals and clinics
Next Steps:
- Organize a Spring “Youth Wellness Fair” in Gurnee or Waukegan, providing free health screenings, stress-management workshops, and physical activities. Include educational booths about nutrition, exercise, sleep, and managing academic stress.
- Fundraise through community sponsors or matching donations. Rotary can underwrite key segments (such as mindfulness/yoga classes, guest health speakers, or resource handouts).
- Partner with local medical providers for vaccinations, dental checks, and general health awareness.
- Gather feedback from students and parents on current needs and expand the event into an annual initiative addressing emerging concerns (such as cyberbullying, healthy social media use, etc.), always reflecting Rotary’s Health and Youth areas of focus.
These opportunities align closely with Rotary’s emphasis on supporting literacy/education and promoting health in local communities, leveraging current events and local enthusiasm while making a lasting impact.
1. Community Food Drive & Pantry Partnership (Fighting Hunger in Lake County)
Context:
Recent coverage notes that "Chicago-area food pantries see spike in visits over past year." This indicates increasing food insecurity in Lake County, affecting families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding areas. Food pantries are under increased strain, making access to nutritious food a critical community health and economic issue.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (which serves Lake County)
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Libertyville Township Food Pantry
- Local schools (to host food drives)
- Local businesses (drop-off locations/sponsors)
Next Steps:
- Gather Rotary club members to form a Food Security Committee.
- Reach out to the food banks and pantries listed above to assess specific needs and current capacity.
- Arrange for a collection and awareness campaign, focusing on non-perishable foods and hygiene items.
- Schedule multiple drop-off dates and locations (including businesses, schools, and high-traffic neighborhood areas).
- Coordinate with social services in Waukegan and Gurnee to facilitate food delivery to homebound seniors or those with limited transportation.
- Plan a fundraising event (such as a benefit dinner or golf outing), with proceeds donated directly to local food security organizations.
2. Teen Mental Health and Safety Workshop Series (Youth Support & Education)
Context:
Multiple recent news stories highlight youth vulnerability, including the tragic loss of a 19-year-old in a motorcycle accident. Further, local high school sports teams and youth organizations (such as volleyball teams) are in the spotlight, revealing a strong youth presence in the community. With increasing awareness of youth mental health challenges and safety concerns, there is an opportunity to support mental/emotional wellness and physical safety among local youth.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools (Grayslake North & Central, Waukegan, Gurnee Warren)
- Lake County Health Department – Behavioral Health Services
- Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (Gurnee) for wellness and safety topics
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) or local traffic safety organizations
- Local public safety departments (police, fire)
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with school counselors and youth leaders.
- Identify key topics: mental wellness, safe driving, stress management, addiction/substance prevention, and healthy peer relationships.
- Arrange for expert speakers from the Health Department and nonprofits.
- Schedule age-appropriate workshops and promote them through schools, social media, and community centers. Consider both daytime (school assemblies) and evening sessions for families.
- Develop complementary resources (pamphlets, online content, referral lists).
- Seek sponsorships or grants to offer incentives (gift cards, scholarships) for student participation.
- Create an evaluation plan to measure participation and impact, informing future youth-oriented initiatives.
1. Project: Youth Environmental Education and Garden Revitalization Initiative
Context:
With the Grayslake Greenery Garden Club presenting its "Putting Your Garden to Bed" program in partnership with State Bank of The Lakes, and the popularity of local farmers markets and harvest festivals, there's strong community engagement around gardening and environmental stewardship. Engaging youth in these efforts aligns with Rotary’s areas of focus on the environment and education.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Greenery Garden Club
- Grayslake Central or North High School environmental clubs
- State Bank of The Lakes (venue/resource support)
- Local 4-H Clubs or Scout Troops
Next Steps:
- Contact leaders of the Grayslake Greenery Garden Club to explore collaboration for an annual youth gardening day or adopt-a-garden program in local parks or schoolyards.
- Coordinate with local schools and youth organizations to recruit student participants and volunteers.
- Plan an educational event or workday coinciding with existing events, such as a fall or spring market, to maximize awareness and participation.
- Seek sponsorships, in-kind donations (plants, tools), and small grants (possibly from State Bank of The Lakes or Rotary District funds).
- Develop a schedule of workshops, ongoing service opportunities, and promotional materials to sustain involvement.
2. Project: Community Health & Resource Access Fair
Context:
The upcoming Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair (Nov 15, Vernon Hills) highlights ongoing community need for access to health and support services. Lake County, Waukegan, and Gurnee face disparities in healthcare access, mental health support, and community resources, especially for families with children who have special needs.
Potential Partners:
- Neuro Universe and associated nonprofit organizations
- Lake County Health Department
- Local schools and special education teachers
- Advocate Condell Medical Center, Vista Health System
- Local businesses from the Home Show, which regularly draw crowds (for potential sponsorship and outreach)
Next Steps:
- Connect with Neuro Universe organizers to discuss expanding the fall resource fair or organizing a Rotary-sponsored spring edition, aiming to increase participation among underserved Waukegan/Gurnee/Lake County residents.
- Enlist healthcare providers and local agencies to offer free screenings, flu shots, mental health resources, and information on insurance/benefits.
- Promote the event through partner organizations, local schools, and high-traffic community events like the Lake County Home Show.
- Apply for Rotary grants or organize a fundraiser (e.g., health walk, raffle at the Home Show) to cover costs and benefit partnering nonprofits.
- Develop a volunteer team for event organization, outreach, and day-of support.
1. Playground Access & Inclusion Initiative – Supporting Lake Forest’s Newest Playground and Community Health
Context:
The City of Lake Forest is launching its newest playground at the beginning of next month. This presents an excellent opportunity to support Rotary’s areas of community health, child development, and inclusive play. While Lake Forest is one of the wealthiest communities, many families from the greater Lake County area, including those from Waukegan and Gurnee, frequent its public parks. National trends and local feedback frequently stress the need for accessible playgrounds that accommodate children with diverse physical and sensory abilities.
Potential Partners:
- City of Lake Forest Parks and Recreation Department
- North Suburban Special Recreation Association (NSSRA)
- Local parent-teacher organizations
- Lake County Health Department
- Local Rotary and Interact Clubs
Next Steps:
- Meet with Lake Forest officials and NSSRA to assess existing playground accessibility and identify needs for further adaptive equipment or programming.
- Organize a fundraising campaign or Rotary Day of Service to help provide adaptive swings, communication boards, or sensory paths, ensuring the playground is accessible and welcoming to all.
- Promote awareness events (such as “Ability Awareness Play Day”) at the playground’s opening, with information booths from community organizations and inclusive group activities.
- Engage youth volunteers from local schools and Interact Clubs to help with installation and opening events.
2. Supporting Education and Youth Achievement—Scholarship/Resource Drive for Waukegan and Gurnee Students
Context:
Recent recognition of Woodlands Academy in Lake Forest as a Blue Ribbon school (state and national honors) spotlights the disparities in educational access and achievement across Lake County. Neighboring communities such as Waukegan face ongoing challenges in resource availability and academic outcomes. Rotary can help bridge this gap by mobilizing community support and fostering inter-district partnerships in support of Rotary’s education and youth focus.
Potential Partners:
- Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
- Waukegan Public Schools
- Gurnee School District 56
- Local PTA/PTOs
- Public libraries in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Lake Forest
- Youth-serving nonprofits such as Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Initiate a cross-community school supply drive or scholarship fund, collecting donations at area schools, businesses, and events (such as the Lake County Home Show).
- Collaborate with Woodlands Academy students and leadership to mentor or tutor youth in Waukegan and Gurnee—focusing on literacy, STEM, and college/career readiness.
- Host a community education celebration or expo at a central location, featuring student achievements, local resources, and workshops for parents and students.
- Apply for Rotary District grants to support scholarships, book donations, or classroom technology for under-resourced schools in Waukegan and Gurnee.
Both initiatives are strongly rooted in current community developments, address Rotary’s designated areas of focus, and offer meaningful partnership and impact potential for greater Lake County.
Based on recent news and community updates from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities tailored to current events and community needs. Both align with Rotary’s areas of focus, specifically community health, education, and support for youth and families.
1. Youth & Family Mental Health Awareness and Support Initiative
Context:
In light of the recent tragic incident at the Great Lakes Naval Station Housing Complex, where two individuals were fatally shot, mental health and wellness—especially among families and youth—has come to the forefront in Lake County. The stress faced by military families and local youth, coupled with a broader national concern for rising mental health issues, highlights an urgent need for awareness, education, and accessible resources.
Potential Partners:
- Rosalind Franklin University Health Clinics (North Chicago)
- Lake County Health Department
- Lake County Veterans and Family Services Foundation
- Local schools and PTAs (Waukegan, Gurnee, Libertyville districts)
- Great Lakes Naval Base family support programs
Next Steps:
- Organize mental health first aid training or awareness seminars for parents, educators, and students (focus on suicide prevention, stress management, and community resources).
- Host a fundraising event (such as a fun run, dinner, or concert) to support local mental health resource organizations and expand counseling services in schools.
- Collaborate with school districts and military family teams to distribute informational materials and offer peer support circles for youth.
- Develop a recurring “Family Wellness Fair” featuring free screenings, resource booths, and activities for kids and parents with a focus on resilience and support.
2. “Warm Homes, Healthy Families” – Winter Preparedness & Home Energy Assistance Drive
Context:
With multiple freeze warnings and widespread frost forecasted, many vulnerable families—especially seniors, low-income residents, and those in older housing—face significant challenges staying warm and safe. The winter months also bring increased risk of home fires from unsafe heating. Local Patch news has highlighted the impending cold and the need for community response.
Potential Partners:
- Catholic Charities Lake County Services (Waukegan)
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (Gurnee distribution location)
- Lake County Community Action Partnership (CAP)
- Local fire departments (for home safety checks)
- Local HVAC and home improvement businesses
- School and faith-based youth groups for volunteer mobilization
Next Steps:
- Launch a community drive to collect new/gently used blankets, winter coats, hats, and gloves to be distributed in partnership with food pantries and service agencies.
- Fundraise to support energy assistance programs helping families pay their heating bills during the coldest months.
- Coordinate with fire departments and trained volunteers to provide free or low-cost in-home safety checks (focus on safe heating).
- Host winter preparedness workshops for seniors and families on low-cost ways to keep homes warm and safe.
- Involve youth volunteers in assembling “winter kits” and distributing resources at community events or schools.
Both projects directly address timely, local needs and are well aligned with Rotary’s focus on supporting healthy communities, education, and vulnerable populations. Collaboration with existing agencies and robust outreach will ensure long-term impact and higher visibility for Rotary service in Lake County.