Certainly! Based on the current events and ongoing community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County, and drawing on Rotary’s areas of focus, here are two actionable Rotary service or fundraising opportunities:
1. Rotary Citizenship & Civic Education Initiative Context: Recent news and community letters underscore heightened concerns and confusion around immigration laws and civic engagement in the community. With evolving immigration policies, many in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County—especially new Americans, youth, and families—could benefit from accessible programs that foster understanding of civic responsibilities, legal rights, and pathways to community participation.
Potential Partners: - Mano a Mano Family Resource Center (Round Lake Park) - Waukegan Public Library’s adult education department - Local school districts such as Waukegan CUSD 60 and Warren Township High School - Lake County Immigrant Advocacy, State’s Attorney’s office
Next Steps: - Convene a working group with interested Rotarians and representatives from above partners to plan a series of free “Civic Saturdays” workshops. - Tap Rotary’s global grant resources or local business sponsors to fund materials, translation, child care, and refreshments. - Recruit local attorneys, teachers, and government leaders to volunteer as session speakers. - Publicize events through schools, faith centers, and media to ensure diverse community attendance and engagement.
2. Support for Military & Veteran Families Wellness Program Context: With national and local news commentary referencing military buildups and related anxiety, there is a timely need to support military families and veterans in Lake County. These groups often face unique mental health, wellness, and reintegration challenges, especially during times of international tension. Rotary clubs can address this by launching targeted health and resilience programs.
Potential Partners: - Lovell Federal Health Care Center (North Chicago) - Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission - Gurnee Park District (for venues) - Community organizations like Lake County Honor Flight
Next Steps: - Connect with Lovell FHCC and Veterans Assistance Commission to assess current needs—such as access to mental health workshops, integration support, or family programming. - Organize a fundraising gala or community run/walk in Gurnee or Waukegan to raise both funds and awareness for veteran support programs. - Develop quarterly “Rotary Family Wellness Days” offering free access to counseling resources, wellness activities, youth mentoring for military kids, and legal/financial literacy sessions. - Seek grants through the Rotary International Foundation under “Supporting Peace & Conflict Resolution” and “Community Health.”
These opportunities directly relate to Rotary’s focus areas of education, community health, and supporting peace, and can make an immediate and lasting impact in Lake County.
1. Food Insecurity Response: Organize a "Rotary Fights Hunger" Food Drive and SNAP Access Workshop
Context:
A recent Lake County News-Sun article highlights a looming crisis as over 71,000 Lake County residents face food insecurity due to a lapse in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Food pantries and local officials are warning that many may go hungry, with 1 in 8 residents relying on benefits to buy groceries. Gurnee and Waukegan, with significant underserved populations, will be particularly affected.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Lake County Community Action Partnership
- Local grocery stores (e.g., Jewel, Mariano’s)
- Waukegan and Gurnee school districts (for family outreach)
Next Steps:
- Connect with local food pantries and Northern Illinois Food Bank to gauge current needs and secure donation logistics.
- Plan a multi-site food drive (Rotary-staffed stations at local stores/churches), targeting nonperishable goods and hygiene products.
- Coordinate with social workers in local schools to distribute flyers and information about the drive and about alternate food resources.
- Organize a "SNAP Resources Q&A" event with County Human Services, where families can get help with navigating alternatives, eligibility, and emergency supports while federal aid is disrupted.
2. Children’s Education Accessibility: Rotary-Head Start STEM & Play Day
Context:
Illinois Head Start, in partnership with children’s museums, is working to ‘bring light back to our program,’ per a recent feature. Many young children in Lake County, especially in Waukegan, need educational enrichment and affordable early learning opportunities. There is a strong push for hands-on, playful learning after pandemic disruptions, and some families remain hesitant to access in-person programs.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library
- Kohl Children’s Museum (Glenview, but often partners with North Suburban districts)
- Lake County Head Start
- Local high school/college student volunteers (for mentorship and activity support)
Next Steps:
- Meet with local Head Start program leads and children’s museum outreach coordinators to plan an in-person “STEM & Play Day” event at the Waukegan Public Library or local park.
- Organize Rotary volunteers to assist with setup, lead literacy and STEM activities, and distribute free books and take-home activity kits.
- Invite local high school or college students (such as those in education tracks at College of Lake County) to serve as mentors and helpers.
- Publicize the event in Head Start communications, school newsletters, and on social media to reach area families, prioritizing accessibility and safety.
- Consider a fundraising component: secure sponsors or run a 50/50 raffle at the event to support ongoing program supplies and future events.
These projects are aligned with Rotary’s focus on community health, basic education, and supporting children and families most at risk in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County.
1. Literacy & Youth Empowerment Initiative: Regional Spelling Bee Support and Mentorship
Context:
The recent success of Visharad Sathish, a Lake County seventh grader who won the regional spelling bee and is now representing Lake County at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C., highlights the talent and academic dedication among local youth. Over 73 schools participated, indicating a strong interest in academic competitions, yet there may be disparities in resources and opportunities for students across the county.
Rotary Area of Focus: Education & Literacy, Youth Support
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan, Gurnee, Libertyville)
- Public libraries
- Parent-Teacher Associations
- Community volunteers (teachers, retired educators, writers)
Next Steps:
a. Launch a Rotary Spelling Bee Fund: Create a fund to help Lake County spelling bee winners and finalists cover expenses for travel and preparation when competing at state and national levels.
b. Mentorship & Workshops: Organize spelling, vocabulary, and public speaking workshops at local libraries or schools, especially targeting underrepresented schools. Engage past winners like Visharad Sathish as mentors or guest speakers to inspire younger students.
c. Literacy Resource Drive: Collect and donate age-appropriate dictionaries and books to school libraries, and provide sponsorships for students who might not otherwise have access to study materials.
d. Public Awareness Event: Host a community event celebrating local academic heroes, raising funds while also increasing the visibility of Rotary’s education initiatives.
2. Community Health and Food Insecurity Response: SNAP Gap Action Program
Context:
Recent reporting notes that the lapse or reduction in SNAP benefits could severely impact up to 71,000 residents in Lake County, with risks that “people will go hungry.” With ongoing food insecurity concerns, especially as social services experience interruptions, the community faces urgent needs for both immediate relief and long-term food stability solutions.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health, Fighting Disease, and Economic Development
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (Lake County branch)
- Cool Ministries (Waukegan food pantry)
- Township General Assistance Programs
- Local churches and faith groups
- Healthcare providers (advocacy for SNAP registration and resource provision)
Next Steps:
a. Emergency Food Drives: Organize a series of coordinated food collection events with the Northern Illinois Food Bank and local churches, inviting Rotarians and community members to contribute shelf-stable items and funds.
b. “Fill the Gap” Fundraiser: Plan a visible Rotary fundraising event (e.g., charity dinner, “walk against hunger,” or online giving campaign) specifically to fund supplemental food boxes for children and seniors most at risk from SNAP reductions.
c. Volunteer Mobilization: Recruit Rotary members and local high school students to help with food sorting, packaging, and delivery to hard-hit neighborhoods, fostering youth service learning.
d. Resource Access Workshops: Partner with township officials to host information sessions on SNAP, WIC, and other assistance programs, utilizing Rotary’s reach and facilities to increase enrollment and public awareness.
Through these targeted projects, Rotary can meaningfully respond to both educational aspirations and immediate human needs in the Gurnee, Waukegan, and wider Lake County community, in alignment with its mission and areas of focus.
1. Youth Violence Prevention and Mental Health Support Initiative
Context:
Recent news highlights teens in Grayslake being charged for shooting into homes and vehicles, signaling urgent issues around youth violence, safety, and possibly underlying mental health challenges. This aligns with Rotary’s focus areas of supporting education, youth, peacebuilding, and community health.
Potential Partners:
- Local schools (such as Grayslake Central and North High Schools)
- Lake County Youth Services
- Gurnee and Waukegan Police Departments’ Community Outreach units
- Lake County Health Department (mental health division)
- Organizations like Boys and Girls Club of Lake County or YouthBuild Lake County
Next Steps:
- Contact school administrators and the Lake County Youth Services team to discuss concerns and explore partnership for a program.
- Develop a speaker or workshop series on conflict resolution, anti-violence, mental health awareness, and leadership for teens.
- Organize a joint town hall or listening session with law enforcement, youth, parents, and social workers to identify underlying issues and program needs.
- Seek Rotary grant funding or a fundraising event (such as a community walk or benefit dinner) to support program materials, professional facilitators, or training for peer mentors.
- Publicize opportunities for students to engage in positive, skill-building volunteer efforts tied to Rotary’s mission.
2. Fresh Food Access Drive and Food Pantry Support
Context:
Chicago-area food pantries, including those in Lake County, are facing a significant spike in visits over the past year, indicating rising food insecurity in communities like Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake. This fits Rotary’s area of focus on community health, fighting hunger, and supporting vulnerable populations.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries food pantries (in Waukegan & Lake County)
- Township food pantries (Warren Township, Avon Township, etc.)
- Local grocery stores and farmers markets
- School districts (for school-based pantries/backpack programs)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Northern Illinois Food Bank and COOL Ministries to identify urgent needs, supply gaps, and best times for drives.
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored “Fresh Start” food drive focused on fresh produce, dairy, and cultural dietary needs, with collection events at local stores, community centers, and club meetings.
- Collaborate with school districts to support backpack weekend meal programs for children.
- Coordinate volunteer days for Rotarians to help sort and distribute food or host pop-up food distribution events in high-need neighborhoods.
- Publicize the effort through local media, social media, and interfaith councils to maximize impact and community engagement.
- Seek local business sponsorship or matching funds for monetary or food donations.
1. Neurodiversity Resource Awareness and Support Initiative
Context:
The "Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair" scheduled for November 15 at 122 Hawthorn Ctr, Vernon Hills, highlights a significant and ongoing community need for resources, support, and awareness around neurodiversity (including but not limited to autism spectrum, ADHD, learning disabilities). As many families in Lake County seek local resources, education, and inclusion opportunities, Rotary can play an important role in amplifying awareness, supporting service expansion, and bridging gaps.
Potential Partners:
- Neuro Universe and similar local advocacy organizations (event organizers)
- Local school districts’ special education departments
- Autism Society of Illinois
- Lake County Health Department
- Special Recreation Associations
- Local parent support groups
Next Steps:
- Contact Neuro Universe organizers to co-host, sponsor, or fund a future fair or related programming, such as workshops for families and educators.
- Organize a Rotary-led series of sensory-friendly community events (library readings, music concerts, sports days), promoting inclusion for children and adults with sensory needs.
- Launch a microgrant or supplies drive for local special education classrooms or support groups in Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Raise awareness through Rotary’s platforms and networks, inviting speakers during club meetings.
- Explore district or global grant opportunities aligned with Rotary's focus on education and community health.
2. Community Food Security & Healthy Eating at Farmers Markets
Context:
The "Fall Grayslake Farmers Market" (November 8) and similar recurring markets in Lake County are community hubs that provide access to fresh, healthy food. Despite available markets, food insecurity persists in Waukegan and surrounding areas. Farmers markets present an opportunity for Rotary to address community health—a Rotary area of focus—by increasing food access for vulnerable families, supporting local growers, and providing nutrition education.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Farmers Market organizers
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local community gardens
- School districts and PTA wellness committees
- University of Illinois Extension—nutrition education programs
- Local churches and faith-based food pantries
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with market organizers to establish a Rotary-sponsored healthy food voucher program, allowing low-income families to purchase fresh produce at the market.
- Recruit Rotarians to staff an information booth about nutrition, food security resources, and SNAP/Link benefits at major markets in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Grayslake.
- Partner with local schools to arrange "Farmers Market Field Trips" where youth learn about fruits, veggies, and healthy eating.
- Organize a fundraising event (e.g., "Harvest Dinner" featuring local produce) to support mobile food pantries in high-need neighborhoods.
- Seek grant opportunities or matching funds through Rotary International or local donors for ongoing support of food security programming.
1. Safe Disposal and Awareness Campaign for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Context:
The recent fire in a Lake Forest garbage truck, started by a discarded lithium-ion battery, highlights serious environmental and safety concerns. Many residents are unaware of the dangers posed by improper disposal of batteries, which can ignite fires in waste facilities and cause environmental contamination.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest Fire Department (recent responders to the incident)
- Lake County Solid Waste Agency (SWALCO)
- Local schools for youth engagement (e.g., Lake Bluff Middle School, School of St. Mary)
- Local business sponsors (e.g., Waukegan Tire, The Episcopal Preschool)
- Municipal governments in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake Forest
Next Steps:
- Organize a battery recycling and hazardous waste drop-off event in partnership with SWALCO.
- Develop and distribute educational materials (flyers, social media posts) on the dangers of improper battery disposal and safe recycling alternatives.
- Invite the fire department to offer live demonstrations for families and students about fire risks.
- Engage lake county businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire) as collection points or sponsors.
- Encourage local government participation to spread messaging and link to existing waste programs.
- Seek Rotary District grants to assist with collection supplies or campaign materials.
2. STEM Mentorship and Math Enrichment for Local Middle Schools
Context:
Recent news celebrated Lake Bluff Middle School and School of St. Mary teams for high placement at the Woodlands Academy Mathalon, but such opportunities often reach only a subset of students. Expanding access to STEM mentorship and math enrichment aligns with Rotary’s commitment to youth development and education, especially for underserved communities (e.g., Waukegan).
Potential Partners:
- Woodlands Academy (host of Mathalon)
- Lake Bluff Middle School, School of St. Mary
- Waukegan Public Schools and after-school programs
- Local universities or colleges with STEM outreach programs
- Business sponsors interested in STEM promotion
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with Woodlands Academy and local schools to launch an annual student mentorship program, pairing Rotarians and community STEM volunteers with students (focusing outreach to Waukegan and under-resourced schools).
- Organize math and science enrichment workshops, after-school clubs, or competitions, with materials and transportation provided for low-income participants.
- Approach local companies and educational organizations for sponsorships, prizes, and volunteer mentors.
- Apply for education-focused community grants from Rotary International.
- Publicize success stories and highlight participating students to encourage broader community involvement.
These project ideas both meet immediate community needs and align strongly with Rotary’s areas of focus, creating lasting local impact.
1. Youth Violence Prevention & Mental Health Support Initiative
Context:
Recent incidents in the Gurnee/Waukegan/Lake County area, such as the shooting into homes and vehicles by local teens (Jabreon Bell, 19, and Sir Mark Hill, 18), as well as other violent altercations, reflect a pressing need for youth violence prevention and mental health resources. Youth-related violent acts often stem from unaddressed mental health concerns, lack of positive engagement, and unmet social needs.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Workforce Development/Job Center of Lake County
- Local law enforcement outreach programs
- School districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding communities
- Youth-focused organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Mano a Mano Family Resource Center)
- Mental health nonprofits (e.g., Lake County Health Department Behavioral Health Services)
Next Steps:
- Convene a forum with community leaders, school officials, police/youth outreach, and mental health professionals to assess needs and define existing service gaps.
- Design an annual Youth Empowerment Day that includes workshops, mentorship sign-ups, and access to counseling services.
- Launch a fundraising campaign (community walk, benefit dinner, or online giving event) with proceeds supporting scholarships to local youth programs and free youth mental health screenings.
- Promote awareness by hosting speakers and distributing resource directories through schools and libraries.
- Monitor and measure impact through youth participation rates and feedback surveys.
2. Pedestrian & Transportation Safety Campaign
Context:
Community safety concerns are evident from recent events, including a 41-year-old woman being struck by a freight train near the Mundelein Metra station and discussions about distracted walking (see survey on “Should Texting And Walking Cluelessly Be Illegal?”). As Lake County communities encourage walkability and reliance on public transportation, there’s an urgent need to address pedestrian safety – especially for seniors, children, and daily commuters.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Division of Transportation
- Metra (public transit) and local commuter advocacy groups
- Local schools and PTA organizations
- Village police departments’ traffic safety units
- AAA and related transportation safety advocacy groups
Next Steps:
- Organize a “Safe Streets/Safe Crossing” awareness week in partnership with schools, Metra, and law enforcement, including interactive safety demonstrations and giveaways of reflective gear or LED lights for night commuters.
- Apply for grants or sponsor a Rotary fundraising event (silent auction, charity run/walk) to install additional crosswalk visibility improvements (lighting/signage) near high-traffic stations and school zones.
- Develop and distribute educational materials highlighting the risks of distracted walking and driving to both youth and adults in the community.
- Facilitate a town hall with residents, local officials, and transportation planners to identify priority areas for safety improvements and cultivate ongoing dialogue about pedestrian needs.
- Seek regular feedback and review local accident statistics to track campaign effectiveness and advocate for ongoing infrastructure enhancements.
Both project ideas address Rotary’s areas of focus—supporting peace and conflict prevention (through youth interventions), community health, and safety (through pedestrian safety initiatives), and foster strong relationships with local partners for sustainable impact.