1. Community Pumpkin Collection & Composting Initiative
Rotary Area of Focus: Environment (supporting environmental sustainability)
Context:
A recent news article ("Halloween pumpkin waste is a methane problem, but chefs and farmers have solutions" by Kiki Sideris, Oct 31, 2025) highlights the significant environmental issue posed by discarded Halloween pumpkins, which contribute to methane emissions when sent to landfills. Both Gurnee and Waukegan—like much of Lake County—see high pumpkin usage during Halloween, with insufficient sustainable disposal options. There is growing community awareness and interest in solutions involving composting and food reclamation.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves (for hosting collection sites, education)
- Local farms such as Didier Farms or Tempel Farms (for compost use or animal feed)
- Municipal public works or sustainability offices in Gurnee, Waukegan
- Youth groups (e.g., high schools, Scouts, Interact clubs)
- Chefs or restaurants willing to reclaim edible pumpkin
Next Steps:
1. Contact municipal officials to secure permissions and locations for pumpkin drop-off points the weekend after Halloween.
2. Partner with local farms/composters to arrange pumpkin transport and processing, possibly organizing a volunteer team for collection/day-of-event assistance.
3. Launch a public awareness campaign (social media, local news, school announcements) on the environmental impact and drop-off details.
4. Engage youth organizations to assist with collection and site staffing, integrating an educational component about food waste and methane.
5. Evaluate and celebrate with a Rotary-hosted event spotlighting environmental impact and next year’s opportunities.
2. Youth Theater Outreach & Literacy Partnership
Rotary Area of Focus: Education & Youth Development
Context:
Metea Valley Theater’s recent presentation of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” (Nov. 6-8, 2025) shows ongoing interest in performing arts education in the region. However, many youth in Lake County (especially in Waukegan and underserved areas) have limited access to high-quality theater or enrichment programs. Supporting youth access to arts can bolster academic literacy, confidence, and social skills.
Potential Partners:
- Area theaters and schools, e.g., Waukegan High School, College of Lake County Theater Department
- Libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee)
- Existing youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Interact clubs)
- Metea Valley Theater as mentors/visitors
Next Steps:
1. Meet with local schools and libraries to gauge needs and propose after-school or weekend drama/literacy workshops.
2. Recruit theater professionals and skilled volunteers to lead workshops, offer script readings, or host youth performances.
3. Pursue small grant funding or a Rotary fundraiser (possibly tied to a public performance) to support accessibility: transportation, materials, and snacks.
4. Create a mentorship/pen-pal program connecting high school theater students (like Metea Valley) with younger learners, fostering ongoing relationships.
5. Publicize the impact and recruit for future cycles, ensuring the opportunity grows throughout Lake County.
These projects address pressing local needs—with the first focused on environmental stewardship, the second on youth and education—directly aligned with Rotary’s priorities and offering strong partnership and visibility potential in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County.
1. Community Health: Emergency Food Distribution and SNAP Outreach
Context:
With the upcoming freeze on SNAP benefits and Governor JB Pritzker directing $20 million to Illinois food banks, there is a clear and urgent need to support food-insecure residents throughout Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan. The increased reliance on food banks is expected to persist as families adapt to benefit changes. According to recent coverage, the Northern Illinois Food Bank, among others, is receiving support but will face heightened demand.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local churches and synagogues (e.g., Gurnee Community Church, Church of the Holy Spirit in Lake Forest)
- Township and city social services
- School districts (for backpack and school pantry programs)
Next Steps:
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored food and fund drive in partnership with Northern Illinois Food Bank to address increased demand.
- Develop a volunteer schedule for sorting, packing, and distributing food at mobile pantry events in partnership with local schools and community centers.
- Host informational workshops for residents to explain changes in SNAP, assist in benefit applications, and connect families to other social supports.
- Seek in-kind donations from local grocery stores and raise funds through a community meal or "Empty Bowls" event.
- Publicize upcoming distributions and workshops via social media, school newsletters, and civic events.
2. Education & Youth: School Readiness/Support for Underperforming Schools
Context:
The release of state school report cards shows varied student achievement across Lake County, with several schools (especially in Waukegan and North Chicago) facing persistent challenges in standardized test performance and resource gaps. Supporting these schools, particularly in the early grades, aligns with Rotary’s education and literacy priorities and can help address equity issues.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Schools District 60
- North Chicago School District 187
- United Way of Lake County (noted for their ongoing early education and reading initiatives)
- College of Lake County (for volunteer tutors/mentors)
- Local parent-teacher organizations
Next Steps:
- Launch a Rotary mentoring and tutoring initiative focusing on reading and math for grades 3–5, recruiting volunteers from local businesses, colleges, and retirees.
- Coordinate with school administrators to identify specific classroom/library needs—books, supplies, flexible seating.
- Apply for Rotary District grants to fund STEM supplies or after-school program materials.
- Organize a community book drive and literacy fair featuring guest speakers, including local authors, to promote reading at home.
- Partner with United Way’s Success by 6 program to expand pre-K literacy resources and training for parents and caregivers.
- Publicize volunteer opportunities throughout Rotary and community service channels to ensure broad engagement.
These two projects directly address pressing, identified needs in Lake County while aligning with Rotary’s global focus on health, hunger relief, education, and youth development.
Context:
Lake County seventh grader Visharad Sathish's recent victory in the regional spelling bee and advancement to the Scripps National Spelling Bee highlights educational achievement and the value of literacy programs for local youth. With 73 Lake County schools and hundreds of students participating, there is clear interest and talent in academic competition and literacy, but not all students may have equal access to enrichment resources or coaching.
Rotary Areas of Focus:
- Basic Education and Literacy
- Youth Support
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (ROE)
- Local school districts (Waukegan, Gurnee)
- Public libraries
- Family Reading Night organizers
- Literacy nonprofits (e.g., Reading Power Inc., United Way Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with the Lake County ROE and local schools to identify gaps in after-school literacy support and discuss interest in partnership.
- Design and publicize a Rotary-sponsored "Spelling Bee Workshops & Literacy Mentorship" program, including mentoring for spelling, vocabulary, and reading.
- Recruit Rotarians and community volunteers to support students as tutors and spelling bee coaches, focusing on underserved schools.
- Organize a fundraising event (such as a spelling bee challenge between Rotary clubs or community members), with proceeds supporting books and resources for participating youth.
- Evaluate program impact at year-end and explore potential expansion to related subjects or additional events.
Context:
Recent state news covers the upcoming freeze in SNAP (food stamp) benefits and a large $1.5 billion overhaul of Chicago-area public transit, both of which will directly affect vulnerable Lake County residents (including in Gurnee and Waukegan). Governor JB Pritzker’s recent direction of emergency funds to Illinois food banks signals heightened local food insecurity risks. Transportation changes may compound access issues for health care, groceries, and basic needs—especially for youth, seniors, and low-income families.
Rotary Areas of Focus:
- Community Economic Development
- Maternal and Child Health
- Disease Prevention and Treatment
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local food pantries (e.g., COOL Ministries in Waukegan, Warren Township Food Pantry)
- Pace Suburban Bus, RTA planning committees
- Local clinics (Lake County Health Department)
- Relevant municipal social services departments
Next Steps:
- Partner with food pantries and social service agencies to coordinate Rotary-led food drives and nutrition education events, especially targeting areas affected by SNAP changes.
- Organize joint Rotary–transit information sessions to help residents navigate upcoming transit system changes and maintain access to food/hospitals/clinics—possibly including distribution of transit passes.
- Seek funding or in-kind transit sponsorships for local families needing support.
- Host back-to-school health fairs in Waukegan and Gurnee, offering free basic health screenings, vaccine clinics, and resource guides for SNAP, WIC, and low-cost transit services.
- Evaluate demand for an ongoing Rotary “Food & Health Access Task Force” to monitor community needs and coordinate with local government as policy changes roll out.
1. Project Idea: Local Food Security Initiative — Supporting Food Pantries Amid Rising Need
Context:
Statewide and local reports, including those referenced on the Grayslake Patch, indicate Chicago-area food pantries have seen a spike in visits this year. Compounding this, Governor JB Pritzker recently enacted an executive order allocating $20M to Illinois food banks, triggered by a halt in SNAP benefits. This signals urgent community need in Lake County, including towns such as Waukegan and Gurnee, especially as colder months increase food insecurity.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (serves Lake County)
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Avon Township Food Pantry
- Local houses of worship (grace period for volunteers/space)
- Area high school Key Clubs, National Honor Society chapters
Next Steps: 1. Connect with local food pantries and the Northern Illinois Food Bank to assess specific needs (perishable, non-perishable, culturally appropriate foods, volunteers). 2. Organize a Rotary-driven food drive/fundraiser with local high school clubs and businesses as partners. 3. Host a public education event on food insecurity and available resources, inviting local officials and service providers. 4. Explore a matching donation program with a local business or foundation to amplify impact. 5. Provide Rotary member volunteers on high-need distribution days.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community health, Economic development, Supporting vulnerable populations.
2. Project Idea: Youth Health and Wellness Campaign — Dental Health Education & Access
Context:
Recent events in Grayslake included the tragic death of a local teen girl following a dental extraction at a clinic. This has raised broad concern about dental health access, education, parental awareness, and potentially the need for improved protocols or preventive care in the community. Dental health is a well-documented foundation for overall well-being, especially in youth.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department Oral Health Program - Local dental clinics (e.g., All Family Dental, Gurnee Dental Care) - School Districts 121 (Waukegan) and 50 (Gurnee) - University dental outreach programs (e.g., University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry)
Next Steps: 1. Reach out to the county health department and local school nurses to identify gaps and opportunities for youth dental education. 2. Plan a "Healthy Smiles" fair or school-based program covering dental hygiene, parental Q&A, and information on what to expect before/after dental procedures. 3. Explore funding/or donations for dental kits (toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss) to distribute at schools or community centers. 4. Work with local dental professionals to arrange free or sliding-scale dental screening days in Waukegan and Gurnee. 5. Offer Rotary volunteer support for translation services or educational materials in Spanish/Russian/Polish, as needed for diverse families.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Disease prevention and treatment, Maternal and child health, Basic education and literacy.
Based on recent events and trends in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, the following two Rotary service or fundraising project ideas meet urgent community needs and align with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Neurodiversity Support and Resource Fair Initiative
Context:
The Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair in Vernon Hills (Nov 15) signals heightened community interest in neurodiversity and resources for families dealing with autism, ADHD, and other neurological differences. Such events show both the local need for educational support and service coordination for families in Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Neuro Universe resource fair organizers
- Local special education staff at Lake County schools
- Autism Society of Illinois (Lake County chapter)
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (for families facing food insecurity)
Next Steps:
- Connect with organizers of the Vernon Hills resource fair to discuss gaps and assess ongoing needs of neurodiverse individuals and their families.
- Develop a Rotary-sponsored neurodiversity education night or mini-resource fair (perhaps hosted at a school or YMCA) with educators, clinicians, and local agencies.
- Arrange for sensory-friendly event spaces and invite local therapy, respite, and support groups to participate.
- Fundraise for scholarships enabling local youth to attend summer or after-school programs tailored for neurodiverse learners.
- Promote the event through participating schools, community centers, and the Patch events calendar to maximize outreach.
2. Healthy Families Holiday Food and Warmth Drive
Context:
Seasonal events like the Fall Grayslake Farmers Market, Halloween at the YMCA, and upcoming holiday festivities (KC’s Cabin Holiday Pop Up Shop, Hot Cocoa Stroll) highlight both a sense of community and the underlying need for support among local families as winter approaches. Food insecurity and access to warm clothing persist, particularly in Waukegan and broader Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Food Pantries (e.g., COOL Ministries Food Pantry in Waukegan)
- Local YMCAs (such as Lindenhurst and Waukegan)
- Schools (Grayslake, Waukegan) for collection points
- Local farmers and vendors from the Grayslake Farmers Market
Next Steps:
- Launch a Rotary “Healthy Families” holiday drive to collect non-perishable foods, gently used coats, hats, and new socks/gloves.
- Set up collection bins at YMCAs, schools, and market booths; coordinate drives to coincide with holiday pop-up shops and community events for maximum participation.
- Organize a festive volunteer packing and distribution day—potentially paired with the Hot Cocoa Stroll—to build community and highlight Rotary’s local impact.
- Partner with pantries and schools for identification of recipient families; weave in health screenings or resource booths at pick-up sites for additional outreach.
- Promote the drive via newsletters, Patch event listings, and social media, emphasizing needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and all of Lake County.
These opportunities invite both fundraising and hands-on service, strengthen high-impact community partnerships, and reinforce Rotary’s local leadership in health, education, and family support.
1. Community Environmental Safety and Education Initiative: Lithium-Ion Battery Disposal Awareness and Collection
Context:
A recent incident in Lake Forest involved a lithium-ion battery sparking a fire inside a garbage truck. Improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries is an escalating environmental and public safety issue in Lake County and nationally. Most community members are unaware of the dangers or the correct methods for disposal of these batteries.
Potential Partners: - Lake Forest Fire Department (for safety demonstrations and outreach) - SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County) for collection site coordination - Local schools (for educational workshops) - Municipal governments of Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake Forest
Next Steps: 1. Connect with the Lake Forest Fire Department and SWALCO to develop a short educational campaign and coordinate safe battery drop-off days at community centers, schools, and public events. 2. Design educational materials (flyers, social media content, school presentations) about lithium-ion battery safety and environmental impacts. 3. Organize an “Environmental Safety Day” event including battery collection, safety demonstration, and environmental workshops for families. 4. Involve youth (e.g., Girl/Boy Scouts, school eco-clubs) to participate in promotion and logistics, aligning with both youth and environment areas of focus. 5. Measure participation and collect feedback to improve future collection and education efforts.
2. Rotary-North County Food Relief Drive and Resource Fair
Context:
Governor Pritzker’s recent executive order is providing $20 million to Illinois food banks after a halt in SNAP benefits. Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in Waukegan and other parts of Lake County, exacerbated by the SNAP changes and rising costs. Many families may be unaware of available resources or need immediate assistance until these funds are fully distributed.
Potential Partners: - Northern Illinois Food Bank - Local pantries and community organizations (e.g., COOL Ministries in Waukegan) - Lake County Health Department (for co-located health screenings) - Local businesses (Waukegan Tire, area groceries for sponsorship/donations) - Houses of worship and schools for food collection and event hosting
Next Steps: 1. Contact Northern Illinois Food Bank and COOL Ministries to confirm unmet needs and capacity for a Rotary-organized relief drive. 2. Secure a central, accessible venue (e.g., school gym, church hall) in Waukegan or Gurnee for a Food Relief & Resource Fair event. 3. Mobilize Rotary club and youth volunteers for food collection, packing, and distribution. 4. Arrange for additional services at the event—basic health screenings, resource tables (SNAP/WIC sign-up, employment aid, etc.)—by partnering with the Lake County Health Department and social service agencies. 5. Seek sponsorships/donations from local businesses, and promote the event widely through schools, churches, and social media. 6. Post-event, assess community impact and explore opportunities for ongoing mobile food pantries or periodic resource fairs.
Both initiatives utilize Rotary’s strengths in community health, environment, education, and youth engagement, while directly addressing documented Lake County needs.
1. Food Insecurity Relief in Partnership with Food Banks
Context:
The recent executive order by Governor JB Pritzker, directing $20 million to Illinois food banks amid halted SNAP benefits, highlights ongoing food insecurity in Lake County—including Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding communities. With a surge in demand at food pantries, local families, especially children and seniors, are likely to face hunger and nutritional shortfalls.
Potential Rotary Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (operates in Lake County)
- Cool Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Warren Township Food Pantry (Gurnee)
- Lake County government and social service agencies
Next Steps:
- Organize a Rotary-led food drive in Gurnee and Waukegan to collect shelf-stable foods, baby formula, and hygiene items.
- Organize volunteer shifts for Rotarians to assist at local pantries—sorting, packing, and distributing food.
- Hold a community fundraising event (e.g., “End Hunger Now” dinner, partnering with local restaurants or service clubs) with proceeds benefiting regional food pantries.
- Publicly advocate and distribute information on available food resources to vulnerable residents.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community health and basic needs.
2. Community Safety & Violence Prevention Education
Context:
Recent incidents in Lake County—including the road rage stabbing in Mundelein and other reports of violent events—underscore the need for greater community mental health resources, conflict prevention education, and youth engagement. Providing safe spaces and positive alternatives for youth, as well as supporting trauma-informed care, can address underlying causes of violence.
Potential Rotary Partners:
- Lake County Health Department (community mental health outreach)
- Youth & Family Counseling (Libertyville/Waukegan)
- Mundelein Police Department’s community liaison officers
- School districts (e.g., Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee SD 56)
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Host a “Peace in the Community” forum co-led by local police, mental health professionals, and youth advocates to address conflict de-escalation, anti-bullying, and self-care for youth and families.
- Launch a fundraising campaign for trauma-informed counseling in schools or youth centers.
- Sponsor after-school programs or safe spaces for at-risk youth, incorporating mentorship from Rotarians and community partners.
- Support local campaigns raising awareness about mental health first aid and violence prevention resources.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Peacebuilding, youth development, and disease prevention/mental health.