Here are two Rotary service or fundraising project opportunities for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, based on community needs and recent events, aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Health & Environmental Engagement: “Healthy Trails, Healthy Community Day”
Context:
The recent popularity of local forest preserves, like Deer Grove, with dozens of locals participating in walking, biking, and running outdoors, highlights both a growing community interest in health/wellness and a need for environmental stewardship. Many families, including those in Gurnee and Waukegan, also face barriers to outdoor access, health education, and resources.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Forest Preserves District - Advocate Condell Medical Center or other local healthcare providers - Local running and biking clubs (e.g., Gurnee Running Club) - Schools/community youth groups - Environmental advocacy organizations
Next Steps: - Reach out to Lake County Forest Preserves to co-host a “Healthy Trails, Healthy Community Day.” - Organize free group walks/runs, bike rides, and nature scavenger hunts. - Provide free screenings (BP, glucose checks) and distribute wellness information with local clinics. - Incorporate an educational component: tree planting, invasive species removal, and recycling drives. - Designate a portion of funds raised to support park/forest improvements and youth nature programming for underprivileged families in Waukegan and Gurnee.
2. Youth Empowerment & Educational Support: “Rotary Champions Night” for Student-Athletes
Context:
With local high school sports—such as the state football playoffs and cross country—generating significant excitement in recent weeks, there’s an ideal opening to encourage youth achievement not just in athletics, but also academics and leadership. Many student-athletes in Lake County, especially in Waukegan, face resource gaps that jeopardize their potential.
Potential Partners: - Local high schools (Carmel, Waukegan High, Warren Township, etc.) - Booster clubs and parent organizations - Local sports programs and businesses (e.g., Dick’s Sporting Goods) - Youth leadership nonprofits - High school alumni
Next Steps: - Collaborate with athletic departments to host a “Rotary Champions Night” event recognizing outstanding student-athletes—emphasizing not only sportsmanship, but also classroom and community service achievements. - Create a mentorship/networking panel pairing students with Rotarians and local professionals. - Launch a scholarship or microgrant fundraising campaign to support post-secondary pursuits for under-resourced students. - Invite community members for a fundraising dinner or awards ceremony, with proceeds going toward scholarships, sports equipment for underfunded programs, or mental health resources for student-athletes.
These projects both reflect Rotary’s commitment to health, education, and youth development, and build on timely developments and existing community interest in Lake County.
Context:
The Baxter Foundation has announced a significant $2.6 million STEM education grant for the Lake County area, noting "This is a benefit to the whole community." While funding is a positive development, local schools and organizations will need support in implementing, supplementing, and maximizing the impact of these programs. With STEM fields rapidly evolving and equity in education still a challenge in parts of Lake County (including Waukegan and Gurnee), there is a unique opportunity for Rotary to amplify these efforts, particularly for under-resourced schools and youth.
Potential Partners: - Baxter Foundation (primary funder) - Local school districts (Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Warren Township High School District 121) - College of Lake County - Local STEM-focused organizations and businesses (Abbott, Zebra Technologies) - Youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Girl Scouts, 4H)
Next Steps: - Reach out to the Baxter Foundation and school district leaders to coordinate on needs and identify specific program gaps (e.g., afterschool robotics clubs, coding workshops, field trip scholarships). - Organize a “Rotary STEM Fest” event to raise additional funds, recruit volunteers/mentors, and provide hands-on STEM activities in partnership with existing grant initiatives. - Consider sponsoring a STEM scholarship program for high-school seniors intending to pursue STEM careers, especially targeting underrepresented groups. - Coordinate Rotary volunteer days to assist with mentoring, equipment set-up, and supply drives in support of the new initiatives.
Context:
Recent headlines report that Jerry Williams, age 65, was the third area pedestrian killed by a vehicle within a week in Lake County. This highlights an urgent need for improved pedestrian safety, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors and children. Community health and safety are core Rotary areas of focus, and this issue presents an immediate opportunity for service and advocacy.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department - Local municipalities and police departments (City of Waukegan, Village of Gurnee) - Safe Routes to School programs - Local advocacy groups (Active Transportation Alliance, AARP local chapters) - Schools, senior centers, and parent-teacher organizations
Next Steps: - Convene a community forum on pedestrian and road safety, inviting public officials, transportation experts, and residents to identify high-risk areas and discuss solutions. - Launch a "See & Be Seen" Rotary awareness campaign: provide free reflective gear for children and seniors, distribute safety education materials, and promote safe walking practices through school assemblies and community centers. - Explore opportunities for grant funding or Rotary fundraising (walk/run events, safety expos) to support infrastructure improvements such as signage, crosswalk enhancements, and lighting in priority areas. - Advocate for local policy changes or infrastructure investments through public comment at village and city council meetings, leveraging Rotary’s reputation as a trusted community partner.
1. Lake County Youth Academic Enrichment & Spelling Bee Support
Context:
Lake County seventh-grader Visharad Sathish’s qualification for the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee highlights the region’s strong youth educational engagement. With 73 Lake County schools and hundreds of students participating, there is clear community interest in academic competitions and achievement. Many students, however, may lack access to coaching, enrichment, or resources needed to excel in similar events.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County
- Libraries such as Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library
- Educational nonprofits (e.g., United Way of Lake County)
- Local businesses for sponsorships
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with school district representatives and the Regional Office of Education to identify current gaps in academic enrichment opportunities.
- Launch a Rotary-funded Youth Academic Enrichment Fund to support travel, materials, and coaching for students qualifying for regional/national competitions.
- Organize spelling bee preparation workshops, mentorships, and celebratory send-off events, inviting local champions like Visharad Sathish to inspire others.
- Pursue grants or fundraising events (e.g., Community Spelling Bee night for adults, Literary Gala) to support the Fund.
- Collaborate with libraries for “Spelling & Reading Clubs” and host annual youth literacy festivals.
Rotary Focus Area: Education and Literacy; Youth Development
2. Lake County Pumpkin Smash – Environmental Education & Composting Expansion
Context:
Lake County is promoting sustainable environmental action through organized pumpkin disposal events such as the “Pumpkin Smash,” which raises awareness about composting and landfill reduction. These pop-up events engage families and local students in ecological stewardship, but there is opportunity to widen participation and deepen educational impact.
Potential Partners:
- Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO)
- Local park districts (e.g., Gurnee Park District, Waukegan Park District)
- Schools and environmental clubs (Gurnee and Waukegan high schools)
- Science educators, Master Gardeners
- Local farms/garden centers (for compost use)
Next Steps:
- Partner with SWALCO and local schools to expand Pumpkin Smash events at multiple locations throughout the county, integrating environmental science activities.
- Develop youth-led educational sessions on composting, sustainability, and food waste, with Rotary volunteers as facilitators.
- Organize a fundraising campaign (“Compost for Classrooms”) to purchase compost bins and supplies for local schools, connecting to STEM curriculum.
- Invite experts to lead workshops at events, engage local media for coverage, and sponsor contests for creative pumpkin art before composting.
- Debrief with schools and community partners to evaluate impact and plan annual expansion.
Rotary Focus Area: Environment; Basic Education; Community Engagement
Based on recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, including Grayslake, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that address current community challenges and align with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Food Security Initiative: Support for Local Food Pantries Experiencing Increased Demand
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health / Fighting Hunger
Context:
The news highlights a significant spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, indicating rising food insecurity in Lake County communities such as Grayslake, Waukegan, and Gurnee. This increase can strain local food pantries’ resources, especially as the holiday season approaches and colder weather exacerbates economic difficulties.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Avon Township Food Pantry (Round Lake Park, near Grayslake)
- Local supermarkets (Jewel-Osco, Aldi)
- Area schools for food drive partnerships
Next Steps:
- Reach out to food pantry coordinators to identify urgent needs (non-perishable items, hygiene products, funds for fresh food, volunteers).
- Organize a community food drive at prominent events, such as the Grayslake Festival of Lights or local holiday markets, leveraging Rotary’s visibility.
- Fundraise through local businesses (e.g., coin boxes at checkouts, dining-for-a-cause nights at restaurants like The Vine).
- Coordinate Rotary volunteers to assist in food sorting and distribution during peak days.
- Publicize the initiative via social media and local news outlets to inspire broader community participation.
2. Youth Wellness and Safety Program: “Safe Rides and Resilient Kids”
Rotary Area of Focus: Youth Support / Community Health
Context:
A recent school bus crash in Lake County injured 30 students, underscoring concerns about student safety and the need for crisis support services for youth. In addition, news of a teacher charged with sexual abuse in the area emphasizes a need for educational workshops and safe environments for children.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (e.g., Warren Township High School District 121, Waukegan Public Schools)
- Lake County Children's Advocacy Center
- Safe Kids Lake County (injury prevention coalition)
- Counseling agencies (e.g., Youth & Family Counseling, NorthPointe Resources)
Next Steps:
- Connect with school administrators to assess current gaps in student safety and support services.
- Develop or fund age-appropriate wellness clinics that combine topics such as trauma resilience, anti-bullying, and emergency preparedness.
- Launch a Safe Rides campaign—work with local transit providers (Pace, Durham School Services) to reinforce safe transport practices and provide post-crash support kits for students.
- Create educational events for parents and educators on recognizing and reporting abuse, in partnership with local advocacy centers.
- Source funding or engage volunteers to provide on-site support or drive preventative programs into schools during high-attendance events (like the upcoming “Nutcracker” at the College of Lake County).
Both projects respond to immediate community needs, align with Rotary goals, and offer opportunities for partnership and visible, positive impact in Lake County.
1. Veterans Home Care Volunteer Program
Context:
Assure Home Assist, Inc. is launching a Free 2-Hour In-Home Care initiative for Veterans Day. This highlights the ongoing needs of elderly veterans and their families, especially those in Gurnee, Waukegan, and the broader Lake County area. Senior isolation, mobility issues, and limited access to daily support are growing challenges.
Potential Partners:
- Assure Home Assist, Inc. (Libertyville)
- Local veterans’ groups (e.g., Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission)
- Senior centers and assisted living facilities
- VFW and American Legion posts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Assure Home Assist and local veterans groups to identify priority needs.
- Organize a volunteer program providing regular home visits, companionship, and light assistance for veterans, modeled after the Veterans Day initiative but ongoing.
- Coordinate Rotary fundraising events (e.g., “Service for Those Who Served” dinner or raffle nights) to support supplies, transportation, and caregiver stipends.
- Publicize the program via local events calendars and at community events (Grayslake Farmers Market, public library fundraisers).
- Recruit and train Rotarians and community members as volunteers, with sensitivity to vetting and training for in-home work.
2. Neurodiversity Youth Support & Resource Expansion
Context:
The Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair in Vernon Hills showcases the growing attention to neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, learning differences) and the need for year-round support for families and children. Access to resources, educational support, and social opportunities for neurodiverse youth remains a gap in Lake County, especially outside of well-publicized fair days.
Potential Partners:
- Neuro Universe (organizers of the resource fair)
- Grayslake Area Public Library (noted for youth and educational programming)
- Local school districts (Gurnee District 56, Waukegan Public Schools, District 127)
- College of Lake County (with special needs support services)
Next Steps:
- Approach Neuro Universe and participating service agencies to identify areas where Rotary can support ongoing needs (e.g., after-school programs, resource libraries, tutoring).
- Launch a Rotary-funded grants program or host a fundraising event—such as a community puzzle/game night (tying in with library's fundraiser)—to purchase assistive technology, books, and fund social workshops.
- Organize quarterly resource fairs or “neurodiversity family days” in collaboration with libraries and local schools.
- Offer Rotarian-led mentorship and skill-building workshops for neurodiverse teens, involving local high school and college volunteers.
- Publicize opportunities through school newsletters, libraries, and community social media groups.
1. Safe Disposal & Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries (Environment & Community Health)
Context:
A recent news report highlighted a lithium-ion battery fire in a Lake Forest garbage truck, started by improper disposal. Such fires are dangerous for sanitation workers, harm equipment, and can threaten community safety and the environment.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest Fire Department
- Local waste management services (e.g., Advanced Disposal, Republic Services)
- Lake County Environmental Works
- Local schools and scout troops (for outreach and education)
- Area hardware stores (for collection days, e.g., Ace, Home Depot)
Next Steps: - Contact the Lake Forest Fire Department to discuss education gaps and fire risks. - Plan an public awareness campaign about proper battery disposal, including flyers, social media, and school visits. - Coordinate with local waste haulers to host a community drop-off/battery recycling day (possibly quarterly at a central location). - Work with businesses to serve as safe battery collection sites. - Apply for Rotary district grants to fund educational materials and site setup. - Consider a fundraising “Battery Recycling Drive” where residents’ batteries are safely recycled for a suggested donation.
2. Mental Health & Safety Advocacy in Local Schools (Education & Youth)
Context:
Recent headlines have included a school bus crash with injuries and a teacher charged with sexual abuse of a student. These events highlight the dual needs for youth support—emotional/mental health resilience as well as education around safety, trust, and healthy relationships.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (Waukegan, Gurnee, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff)
- Lake County Children's Advocacy Center
- Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (Waukegan)
- School resource officers
- Youth-serving organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Clubs, YWCA)
- Counseling centers or local therapists
Next Steps:
- Contact neighboring school districts’ leadership teams to identify existing safety and mental health initiatives.
- Partner with the Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center and Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center to host workshops for students, parents, and staff on safe relationships and reporting abuse.
- Launch an after-school mental health resilience program (discussion groups, mindfulness training, access to counselors).
- Promote available safety and support hotlines throughout the schools and community centers.
- Fundraise via a “Run/Walk for Safety & Support” event—engaging parents, teachers, and students and raising funds for youth mental health and safety programming.
- Apply for Rotary grants for materials, outside speakers, and event costs.
These two project opportunities are well-aligned with Rotary’s focus on protecting the environment/community health and supporting education/youth development in Lake County.
1. Community Health: Support for First Responders at Naval Station Great Lakes
Context:
Naval Station Great Lakes firefighters are reportedly working without pay due to a federal government shutdown, impacting morale and well-being (CBS Chicago). First responders face additional hardships during these periods, including financial strain, stress, and fatigue from extended work hours.
Potential Partners:
- Naval Station Great Lakes Fire Department and Base Administration
- Local unions representing federal firefighters
- Lake County Community Foundation
- Businesses and restaurants in Gurnee and Waukegan (for food/meal donations)
- School groups or Scouts (for making thank-you cards and care packages)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with the Naval Station Great Lakes administration to assess the most immediate needs (meals, gift cards, mental health support, transportation stipends, etc.).
- Organize a community fundraising campaign ("Support Our Firefighters") utilizing Rotary's network and social media, with clear impact narratives.
- Launch a meal train and/or weekend care package initiative for affected firefighters and their families, partnering with local businesses and volunteer groups.
- Host a public thank-you event to raise awareness about the challenges faced by federal workers during shutdowns, invite media, and encourage wider community support.
- If needed, arrange financial counseling workshops (potentially through a local credit union partner) for the impacted employees.
2. Education & Youth Safety: School Bus Safety Initiative in Lake County
Context:
A recent school bus crash in Lake County led to injuries for 30 individuals. The incident highlights the ongoing importance of student transportation safety and community awareness (Patch News, Illinois). Rotary’s role in education and child safety aligns well with addressing systemic and preventative actions to limit such incidents.
Potential Partners:
- Area school districts and transportation departments (Waukegan, Gurnee, Libertyville, etc.)
- Local police and fire departments (for safety presentations)
- Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs)
- Insurance companies (for sponsorship and printed materials)
- Illinois Department of Transportation
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the affected schools and districts to express interest in supporting current and future safety education efforts.
- Develop and promote a “Rotary Rides Safe” campaign—a mix of assemblies, safety days, and digital outreach focused on bus rider safety, driver vigilance, and emergency preparedness (evacuation drills, first aid basics, etc.).
- Create and distribute educational materials (videos, flyers, coloring books) for students and families, potentially supported by insurance partners.
- Fundraise through a community event (family safety fair, fun run) to purchase additional safety equipment (seat belts, first-aid kits) for school buses or fund “bus monitors” for high-occupancy routes.
- Encourage high school Interact clubs or youth groups to become “Bus Safety Ambassadors” and peer educators.