Certainly! Here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, based on recent news context and ongoing community needs:
1. Food Security and Nutrition for Local Families
Context:
Although recent news on November 7th, 2025, did not highlight urgent crises, ongoing food insecurity remains a concern in Lake County, particularly in Waukegan and Gurnee, where many families face challenges accessing healthy food. As colder months approach, demand at local food pantries and community kitchens like the Northern Illinois Food Bank and COOL Ministries tends to rise. This aligns with Rotary's Area of Focus: "Community Health and Disease Prevention."
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries (Waukegan)
- Local supermarkets (e.g., Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s)
- Schools in Waukegan and Gurnee
Next Steps: - Organize an awareness campaign and food drive in partnership with local grocery stores and schools. - Set a fundraising target to sponsor weekly family meal kits distributed by the Northern Illinois Food Bank. - Mobilize Rotary members for volunteer shifts at food banks and distribution sites. - Engage community leaders and local media to boost participation and sponsor contributions.
2. Supporting Youth Mental Health and Wellness
Context:
Lake County schools, including those in Gurnee and Waukegan, report ongoing concerns about student well-being, post-pandemic behavioral health, and access to supportive resources. Regional healthcare providers and school districts are seeking community-based solutions to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and offer support services, especially as academic and social stressors rise.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Community Youth Network (CYN) Counseling Center
- Warren Township Youth & Family Services (Gurnee)
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee District 56)
Next Steps: - Convene a meeting between Rotary, school counselors, and mental health service providers to identify key needs and potential workshop topics. - Apply for a Rotary grant to fund school-based mental health workshops, peer support group training, or the distribution of educational materials. - Organize a youth mental health awareness event (e.g., “Wellness Weekend”) with guest speakers, interactive sessions, and access to community resources. - Establish an ongoing Rotary mentoring or support program connecting trained volunteers with youth in need of additional support.
These initiatives address immediate and ongoing local needs while advancing Rotary's values and areas of focus.
1. Digital Literacy & Access Initiative with Waukegan Public Library
Context:
The Waukegan Public Library recently launched a redesigned website to make resources more accessible. However, digital divides persist in Lake County, impacting low-income families, immigrants, and elderly residents who may lack internet access or technical skills. Digital inclusion is vital for education and workforce development—and aligns with Rotary’s focus on education and community economic development.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60)
- Senior centers or community organizations (e.g., Catholic Charities, Mano a Mano Family Resource Center)
- Businesses able to donate devices (e.g., CDW, Best Buy Foundation)
Next Steps:
- Contact the Waukegan Public Library director about collaboration on digital literacy workshops (covering topics like online safety, using public resources, job searching, etc.).
- Organize device donation drives (collecting refurbished computers/tablets to distribute to families in need, working with tech businesses).
- Recruit Rotarian and community volunteers to lead group or one-on-one digital training sessions at the library and local senior/community centers.
- Promote the program through the library’s new website and local schools/social service providers.
2. Youth Mental Health Awareness & Support Campaign
Context:
Recent months in Lake County have spotlighted ongoing challenges with youth well-being, including increases in anxiety, stress, and social isolation stemming from digital and societal pressures. With schools like Warren and Antioch highlighted in coverage, Rotary can address a critical health and youth area, while supporting local youth resilience and family wellness.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (Warren Township High School, Antioch Community High School, Waukegan schools)
- Lake County Health Department’s Behavioral Health Services
- Youth-focused non-profits (e.g., Youth & Family Counseling, NAMI Lake County)
- Area businesses for event sponsorship (e.g., local banks, retailers)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with school counselors and Lake County Health officials to assess the most pressing needs and feasible support (assemblies, workshops, parent seminars, peer mentorship).
- Plan a Rotary-sponsored “Youth Mental Wellness Day” including speakers, breakout sessions, and mental health resource fairs for students and parents.
- Develop or fundraise for a mini-grant program for school-based initiatives (peer support groups, mental wellness clubs, etc.).
- Amplify the campaign via local news outlets, school communications, and social media to destigmatize seeking help and promote available resources.
1. Youth Enrichment and Academic Excellence Initiative: "Rotary Champions of Literacy & Learning"
Context:
Lake County seventh grader Visharad Sathish's advancement to the Scripps National Spelling Bee highlights both the academic potential of local students and the importance of enrichment activities outside standard curricula. Many children in Lake County, Waukegan, and Gurnee do not have equal access to spelling, reading, STEM, and academic enrichment programs—especially in under-resourced schools. Supporting and expanding such opportunities aligns with Rotary’s focus on education and youth development.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts and administrators (e.g., Lake County Regional Office of Education, Waukegan and Gurnee school districts)
- The Lake County Public Library system
- Local literacy nonprofits (e.g., Waukegan to College, Reading Power Inc.)
- Businesses for sponsorship (such as local bookstores or educational supply retailers)
Next Steps:
1. Convene a meeting with school and library partners to identify gaps in current enrichment offerings and potential host sites.
2. Develop a Rotary-funded grant or direct support program for literacy, spelling, and academic excellence—such as scholarships to national competitions, after-school enrichment clubs, and reading events.
3. Launch a community spelling or literacy festival to celebrate students like Visharad, raise funds, increase visibility, and provide book giveaways and workshops.
4. Recruit Rotary volunteers to mentor, coach, or judge future local academic competitions.
5. Publicize the success stories to encourage participation from more students and families at all socioeconomic levels.
2. Traffic Safety and Community Health Campaign: "Safe Streets, Safe Seniors"
Context:
Recent reports from Lake County, including the tragic death of an elderly pedestrian in Lincolnshire, underscore ongoing community health and safety concerns. With growing traffic and an aging population, there is a pressing need to improve pedestrian safety and raise awareness about road safety for seniors in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding communities. This aligns with Rotary’s area of focus on community health and the well-being of vulnerable populations.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Department of Transportation and local police/fire departments
- Senior centers (such as Warren Township Senior Center, Catholic Charities Senior Services)
- Village/city governments (Gurnee, Waukegan, Lincolnshire, etc.)
- Insurance companies or local hospitals (for health/safety programming support)
Next Steps:
1. Meet with municipal and senior center leaders to gather data and prioritize locations for intervention (e.g., crosswalks, signage).
2. Organize a fundraising walkathon or community fair to raise awareness and funds for installing pedestrian safety features (crosswalk lights, signs, benches) and for producing safety materials in multiple languages.
3. Launch Rotary-led safety seminars for seniors and families, partnering with law enforcement for demonstrations and Q&A on safe walking/driving practices.
4. Establish a task force to advocate for local infrastructure improvements and continued funding.
5. Publicly recognize and celebrate efforts and progress via Rotary, media, and local government channels, encouraging broader community investment in senior health and safety.
Both projects will provide high-visibility, high-impact service in Lake County while directly addressing Rotary’s areas of focus on education/youth and community health.
1. Food Security Initiative: Lake County Food Pantry Collaboration
Context:
Recent local coverage highlights a significant spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, indicating increased food insecurity in Lake County, including Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding communities. As the need rises, pantries often struggle to keep up with demand especially around the holidays and winter months. This aligns closely with Rotary’s focus on community health and supporting basic needs.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries (based in Waukegan)
- Local schools for food drives
- Businesses such as Jewel-Osco or Mariano’s supermarkets
- Area houses of worship
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Northern Illinois Food Bank and COOL Ministries to identify current needs and partnership opportunities (contact: Maeven Sipes, Northern Illinois Food Bank Development Officer).
- Plan a Rotary-sponsored holiday food drive at local supermarkets and schools; coordinate logistics for sorting, packing, and distributing food.
- Organize a volunteer day for Rotarians, family members, and community partners to assist with distribution.
- Publicize results and thank supporters via local press and social media to build future support.
2. Community Youth & Violence Prevention Outreach
Context:
Recent reports from Grayslake reference a shooting incident involving teens, suggesting a need for positive engagement and alternatives for youth in Waukegan, Gurnee, and greater Lake County. This ties into Rotary’s areas of focus on youth services, peacebuilding, and conflict prevention.
Potential Partners:
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County (host of recent community events)
- Grayslake Police Department Community Outreach Division
- Local high schools and middle schools (e.g., Warren Township High School in Gurnee, Waukegan High School)
- Youth mental health services (e.g., Lake County Health Department)
Next Steps:
- Meet with Boys & Girls Club representatives (contact: Claudia Freeman, Lake County BGCL executive director) to discuss existing afterschool or mentoring programs needing support.
- Develop a “Rotary Led Youth Leadership Day” focusing on communication, conflict resolution, and life skills.
- Leverage collaboration with law enforcement for presentations, career days, and trust-building activities.
- Determine potential funding needs for scholarships, supplies, or expansion of safe after-school spaces.
- Invite local businesses to sponsor programs or offer internships/job shadowing for teens.
Both initiatives connect immediate community needs to Rotary's mission, foster local partnerships, and offer visible, hands-on volunteer opportunities for members.
1. Rotary Senior Wellness and Support Initiative (Aligns with: Community Health, Supporting the Elderly and Veterans)
Context:
Assure Home Assist (based in Libertyville, IL) recently launched a free two-hour in-home care service in honor of Veterans Day. This initiative highlights the ongoing need for support among local seniors and veterans who live independently, especially as the population ages in Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan.
Potential Partners:
- Assure Home Assist Inc. (lead partner)
- Local Veterans Affairs offices (Gurnee, Waukegan)
- Senior centers in Lake County
- Local health departments
- Meals on Wheels Lake County
- Area schools or youth programs for intergenerational volunteerism
Next Steps:
- Contact Assure Home Assist to discuss partnership and how Rotary can amplify their Veterans Day program into a year-round or quarterly initiative (e.g., periodic wellness checks, home safety assessments, friendly visits).
- Connect with local VA offices to identify veterans in need of support.
- Coordinate with senior centers to offer additional services (such as technology tutorials, groceries/medication delivery, or home modification projects).
- Recruit Rotary members and local youth volunteers for participation.
- Plan a fundraising event or online campaign, with proceeds benefiting program expansion and supplies.
- Publicize the program through local media, Patch events, and partner networks.
2. Youth Literacy and Education Drive (Aligns with: Education, Supporting Youth)
Context:
The upcoming Used Book Sale at Book Nook and the “Open Doors to Education” scholarship event at Libertyville High School demonstrate active community interest in literacy and educational access. Many families in Lake County face barriers to reading materials and scholarship opportunities.
Potential Partners:
- Book Nook (Grayslake library or Friends of the Library group)
- Libertyville High School and local school districts
- Kim Muno Scholarship Foundation (if connected with the "Open Doors to Education" event)
- Community youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Local book publishers or independent bookstores
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Book Nook and the Friends of the Library to propose a Rotary-sponsored “Books for All” campaign: collecting, purchasing, and distributing new and gently-used books to underserved youth in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding areas.
- Collaborate with Libertyville High School and the Kim Muno Scholarship team to promote scholarship awareness workshops, essay writing clinics, or mentorship programs.
- Organize biannual book drives, with Rotary members participating at community events or area schools.
- Seek grants or local business sponsorships to purchase new multilingual and culturally relevant books.
- Showcase success stories and impact stats in Rotary newsletters and social media to encourage ongoing support and volunteerism.
1. Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling and Safety Education Campaign (Environment / Community Safety)
Context:
A recent fire in a Lake Forest garbage truck was attributed to the improper disposal of a lithium-ion battery ("Lithium-Ion Battery Starts Garbage Truck Fire At Lake Forest Facility," Patch Oct 27). As battery-powered devices proliferate, improper disposal poses increasing risks to sanitation workers, the environment, and the wider community.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest Fire Department
- Lake County Public Works/Environmental Services
- Local schools (for educational outreach)
- Community organizations such as SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County, IL)
- Electronics retailers (Best Buy, Batteries Plus Bulbs)
Next Steps:
- Organize public informational sessions in partnership with the fire department around safe disposal practices for rechargeable batteries.
- Coordinate with SWALCO to host a community-wide battery/e-waste recycling collection day.
- Develop educational materials and school presentations targeting students and families.
- Promote permanent drop-off locations for batteries at municipal buildings and participating retailers.
- Pursue Rotary District or corporate grants to fund recycling event supplies, marketing, and incentives (such as small giveaways for participants).
2. STEM Education Support for Local Youth (Education / Youth Development)
Context:
Recent news highlights the success of local students in STEM competitions (e.g., Woodlands Academy tennis & mathalon, recognition of middle school math teams). Supporting and expanding STEM programs directly addresses Rotary’s education and youth areas of focus.
Potential Partners:
- Woodlands Academy
- Lake Bluff Middle School & School of St. Mary
- Local business sponsors (e.g., Waukegan Tire, The Episcopal Preschool)
- Existing organizations serving youth such as the Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
- Local libraries
Next Steps:
- Reach out to schools with standout math and science teams to assess unmet needs (e.g., funding for competition fees, transportation, equipment).
- Organize a community “STEM Day” with interactive stations staffed by Rotary and partners, featuring hands-on experiments and career awareness for students.
- Explore a Rotary scholarship or micro-grant for local students to participate in regional/state/national STEM competitions.
- Collaborate with local businesses to host workplace field trips or job shadowing days focused on STEM careers.
- Publicize existing accomplishments to recruit volunteers and build momentum for sustained support.
Both opportunities address current community events and respond to clear needs—making them a strong fit for Rotary action and partnership in Lake County, IL.
1. Emergency Services Support Fundraiser for Naval Station Great Lakes Firefighters
Context:
Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, firefighters at Naval Station Great Lakes in Lake County are currently working without pay. This not only puts a financial strain on these first responders and their families, but also impacts their morale and well-being, which can affect emergency service performance for the entire community.
Potential Partners:
- Naval Station Great Lakes fire department representatives
- USO of Illinois
- Lake County Community Foundation
- Local businesses (for in-kind donations or sponsorship)
- GLMV Chamber of Commerce
Next Steps:
- Reach out to fire department leadership (or the union representative) at Naval Station Great Lakes to determine the most urgent needs (e.g., groceries, fuel cards, utility assistance, morale-boosting events).
- Organize a fundraising event (such as a community pancake breakfast, 5k run, or online GoFundMe campaign) specifically to benefit affected firefighters and their families.
- Collaborate with the GLMV Chamber of Commerce and local businesses for donations and promotional help.
- Ensure proper channels for fund disbursement, possibly partnering with a recognized 501(c)(3), like the Lake County Community Foundation or USO, to administer assistance.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Economic Development, Community Health
2. Youth Violence Prevention & Mental Health Workshop Series
Context:
Recent violent incidents in the county—including a fatal domestic attack in Libertyville, a road rage stabbing in Mundelein, and a pedestrian hit by a train—highlight growing concerns about community mental health, conflict resolution, and youth safety. There is a clear need for preventive outreach to address underlying issues such as stress, family conflict, and mental well-being, particularly among young people and families.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Youth Services
- School districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Libertyville
- Lake County Health Department – Behavioral Health Services
- Organizations like NAMI Lake County
- Local faith-based organizations
Next Steps:
- Connect with Lake County Youth Services and area schools to offer a Rotary-supported series of workshops on mental health awareness, nonviolent conflict resolution, and family communication.
- Secure facilitators from NAMI or trained mental health professionals.
- Seek venues such as community centers, libraries, or schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Libertyville.
- Promote the series through social media, school networks, and partner organizations.
- Offer resource packets and connections to area counseling services for participants.
Rotary Area of Focus: Disease Prevention and Treatment, Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution, Youth Support