Based on the limited but telling news item—a first-person account by columnist Tom Montgomery Fate, referencing nonviolent protests at the Broadview Detention Center and wider themes of community division and hope—I am recommending project ideas that directly address the needs for community cohesion, support of vulnerable populations, and respectful dialogue in Lake County communities such as Gurnee and Waukegan. Below are two service or fundraising opportunities that align with Rotary’s focus areas and the context reflected in the community:
1. Project Hope & Support: Caring for Immigrant Families
Context:
Tom Montgomery Fate’s column underscores heightened concerns about immigrants and the importance of hope over hate in our communities. Lake County, and particularly Waukegan, has a significant immigrant population. With ongoing tension around immigration enforcement, there is a clear need for support services—legal, emotional, and practical—for families affected by detention and deportation activities.
Potential Partners:
- Mano a Mano Family Resource Center (Round Lake Park, serving Lake County)
- Lake County Immigrant Advocacy partners
- Local faith communities (e.g., St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waukegan)
- Gurnee and Waukegan school district family liaisons
- Legal Aid Society of Metropolitan Family Services (Waukegan office)
Next Steps:
- Invite leaders from Mano a Mano and local churches to present at a Rotary luncheon—gather input on immediate needs.
- Organize a “Community Hope” fundraiser (dinner, silent auction, or walkathon) to benefit local emergency legal funds and direct aid for families facing detention or deportation.
- Develop a roster of Rotarian and local volunteers skilled in translation, childcare, and transportation to assist affected families.
- Host a community resource fair in Waukegan/Gurnee with info booths on legal rights, access to services, and stress management.
2. Youth Dialogue & Unity Workshops: “Bridging Communities” Series
Context:
The essay’s message about “showing hope, not hate” and the polarization observed around detention centers points to a growing need for youth empowerment, cross-cultural understanding, and peaceful dialogue in local schools. Waukegan and Gurnee schools are increasingly diverse and can serve as incubators for unity-building programs.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Schools, Gurnee School District 56
- The Dialogue Project at the University Center of Lake County
- Youth Services of Glenview/Northbrook (experience facilitating youth leadership workshops)
- Waukegan Park District (facilities, co-programming)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to school counselors and diversity coordinators to co-create a pilot workshop series focused on empathy-building, anti-bias training, and storytelling among students.
- Apply for a Rotary district grant to provide materials, food, and speaker stipends.
- Recruit Rotarians and community leaders as facilitators and mentors—include immigrant youth in planning and leading the workshops.
- Publicize the workshops through school newsletters, library bulletins, and social media, highlighting Rotary’s role in fostering a constructive, hopeful community culture.
Both projects leverage current events, respond to community concerns about division and immigrant rights, and exemplify Rotary’s mission to advance peace, community health, and youth development in Lake County.
1. STEM Education Expansion Initiative (Supporting Education & Youth Development)
Context:
The Baxter Foundation has just announced a $2.6 million grant for STEM education with the goal of benefiting the broader Lake County community. This high-profile investment highlights both existing community momentum around science and technology education and the ongoing need for programs and support, particularly for underserved schools in Waukegan, Gurnee, and throughout Lake County.
Potential Partners: - Baxter Foundation and local Baxter employees (for mentoring, resources) - Waukegan and Gurnee public schools - College of Lake County’s STEM faculty/students - Local tech firms and libraries
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Baxter Foundation for an introduction and details on community partners/beneficiaries.
- Convene a discussion with local schools’ STEM coordinators to identify needs—such as tutoring, career mentoring, hands-on science days, robotics clubs, or field trips.
- Organize a fundraising event or sponsorship drive (such as a "Robotics Challenge" or "Girls in STEM" workshop) with all proceeds going toward technology, equipment, transportation, and scholarships for students.
- Recruit Rotary volunteer mentors from STEM professions to offer ongoing coaching, workshops, and exposure to real-world STEM careers.
2. Safe Streets Awareness & Pedestrian Support Project (Supporting Community Health & Safety)
Context:
Lake County has reported a concerning increase in pedestrian accidents, with three area pedestrian fatalities in the last week alone. Traffic safety, especially for walkers of all ages, is now top-of-mind for residents in Waukegan, Gurnee, and surrounding neighborhoods.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department - Local law enforcement (Waukegan and Gurnee Police Departments) - Schools and PTAs - Active Transportation Alliance - Local senior centers and disability advocacy groups
Next Steps:
- Initiate a meeting with local officials, law enforcement, and school leaders to assess current challenges and identify danger zones for pedestrians.
- Organize a "Safe Streets Day" event: free reflectors/vests, educational workshops for adults and youth, and community walks to audit problematic intersections.
- Launch a fundraising campaign for infrastructure improvements (crosswalk beacons, signage, sidewalk repairs) in high-risk areas.
- Leverage Rotary’s public image by advocating for comprehensive Safe Routes to School and Walk-to-Park initiatives alongside other community groups.
- Mobilize Rotary volunteers to assist with outreach, distribute safety materials, and support neighborhood assessments.
Both opportunities target pressing local needs, align with Rotary’s focus on community health, education, and youth, and leverage current events and momentum for broad partnership and impact.
1. Youth Literacy and Academic Excellence Initiative
Context:
Lake County seventh-grader Visharad Sathish’s accomplishment—winning a marathon regional spelling bee and heading to the National Spelling Bee—spotlights local youth achievement and educational dedication. With engagement from 73 Lake County schools and hundreds of students, the community demonstrates strong interest in literacy, vocabulary, and academic competition. However, access and resources for similar enrichment opportunities are not always equally distributed among local students.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Individual educators and school districts (Gurnee, Waukegan, etc.)
- Local libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library)
- Education nonprofits (e.g., Baxter Foundation, which recently awarded a $2.6M STEM grant in the area)
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with local school representatives and librarians to assess current gaps and needs in after-school academic enrichment.
- Develop a Rotary-funded Spelling & Literacy Program, offering free or subsidized spelling bees, word clubs, vocabulary workshops, and Scripps Bee sponsorships—especially for under-resourced schools.
- Organize a community-wide “Literacy Festival” celebrating participants, inviting past regional winners like Visharad Sathish for inspiration.
- Launch a fundraising campaign or grant application drive (potentially with Baxter Foundation’s STEM and education focus) to secure program sustainability.
- Establish mentorship and tutoring programs using volunteers from local colleges, retired teachers, and Rotarians.
2. Pumpkin Disposal and Environmental Education Project
Context:
Lake County’s recent initiative offering “smashing good time for pumpkin disposal” demonstrates both government leadership and community interest in eco-friendly solutions to food waste. Proper pumpkin disposal has direct environmental impact—reducing landfill burden and supporting compost programs—as well as opportunities for public education in sustainability.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Public Works and Environmental Services
- Local environmental organizations (SWALCO—Solid Waste Agency of Lake County; Go Green Gurnee)
- Area schools and youth groups (4H, Scouts)
- Local farms or garden centers (for composting partnership)
- Media partners (to share educational messaging)
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with county officials to expand pumpkin smashing/disposal events to more neighborhoods in Gurnee, Waukegan, and beyond—organizing them as family-friendly autumn festivals that double as educational outreach events.
- Develop Rotary-branded educational materials/workshops for event attendees on composting, food waste reduction, and sustainable gardening.
- Recruit volunteers to assist with logistics, run “green games” for kids, and provide eco-friendly treats (such as pumpkin recipes or seeds to plant).
- Use event proceeds or on-site donations to support Rotary environment-focused grants for local schools to start or expand gardens or compost projects.
- Document and promote impact to encourage future community buy-in and possibly expand to year-round environmental events.
1. Supporting Food Security Amid Increased Pantry Use (Community Health, Basic Needs)
Context:
Recent reports indicate Chicago-area food pantries, including those in Lake County communities such as Waukegan and Gurnee, are experiencing a dramatic spike in visits over the past year. Food insecurity remains a top concern, with pantries struggling to meet demand as winter approaches and inflation continues to impact families.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries (Waukegan-based food pantry)
- Community Care Center of Gurnee
- Local grocery stores (Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s)
- Youth organizations and schools for volunteer recruitment
Next Steps:
- Contact COOL Ministries and Community Care Center to assess their most immediate needs (food items, volunteers, funds).
- Launch a Rotary-sponsored winter food and fund drive, leveraging local businesses as donation sites and publicizing via social media and newsletters.
- Organize volunteer shifts—including youth participants—to help with food sorting, packing, and distribution at pantries.
- Seek sponsorship or matching donations from area grocery stores.
- Plan a capstone service event for late January/early February, with recognition for volunteers and major contributors.
2. Promoting Senior Independence and Veteran Care (Community Health, Supporting Vulnerable Populations)
Context:
An area business, Assure Home Assist, recently launched a free 2-hour in-home care program in recognition of Veterans Day, targeting local veterans and seniors who need extra assistance. This signals both an unmet need in the community and an opportunity for sustainable support for elders and veterans, considering Lake County’s significant veteran and senior resident population.
Potential Partners:
- Assure Home Assist
- College of Lake County’s gerontology program and student volunteers
- Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission
- Local VA clinics and senior living communities
- Township senior services offices
Next Steps:
- Connect with Assure Home Assist and the Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission to coordinate a Rotary-led outreach campaign, identifying veterans and seniors who could benefit from ongoing companionship, wellness checks, and minor home safety upgrades.
- Recruit and train Rotary volunteers (including Interact/Rotaract youth branches) for regular in-person visits and check-in calls.
- Partner with College of Lake County to engage students majoring in nursing or social work for service hours.
- Organize a quarterly “Healthy at Home” event offering information on fall prevention, nutrition, and access to benefits/services.
- Seek foundation or business sponsorships to extend the program’s reach and sustainability beyond Veterans Day.
1. Community Health and Support for Veterans: "Rotary Cares for Veterans" In-Home Assistance Expansion
Context:
Assure Home Assist, Inc. is launching a free 2-hour in-home care initiative in Libertyville for Veterans Day. This highlights an existing need for in-home care services, companionship, and support for elderly and disabled veterans in Lake County, including Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake. Many local veterans and seniors are at risk of social isolation, food insecurity, and struggle with daily tasks at home.
Potential Partners:
- Assure Home Assist, Inc. (28140 N Bradley Rd, Libertyville)
- Local Veterans Affairs (VA) offices and American Legion posts
- Lake County Senior Services
- Local high school service clubs (National Honor Society, Key Club)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Assure Home Assist to discuss expanding the free in-home care offering, possibly as a monthly or quarterly Rotary-supported program, especially targeting underserved areas like Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Coordinate with local VA representatives and senior services to identify veterans and/or seniors in need of support.
- Organize a volunteer roster (Rotary and youth partners) to provide wellness checks, companionship, meal delivery, and minor home maintenance.
- Plan a fundraising campaign—such as a Veterans Day luncheon or a benefit concert—to fund care packages, safety equipment, and to possibly sponsor extended care hours for those most in need.
- Promote the service in local news outlets and at community events (e.g., farmers markets, school events).
2. Education and Youth Opportunity: "Open Doors to Education" Scholarship and Mentorship Program
Context:
The calendar mentions the “Kim Muno Scholarship Goal” event and “Open Doors to Education” at Libertyville High School. This, along with ongoing needs in Waukegan (which serves a high percentage of low-income families), underscores the importance of scholarships and mentorship for Lake County youth—particularly those who are first-generation college students or face barriers to success.
Potential Partners:
- Libertyville High School and Waukegan High School guidance departments
- Kim Muno Scholarship organizers
- College of Lake County (19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake)
- Local businesses (potential sponsors, internship hosts)
- Youth organizations (Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Big Brothers/Big Sisters)
Next Steps:
- Meet with the Kim Muno Scholarship committee to learn about existing gaps in funding and mentorship, and explore how Rotary can amplify impact via new scholarships or support services.
- Develop a Rotary-powered mentorship program that connects Rotarians and local professionals with scholarship applicants for application coaching, career exploration, and life skills workshops.
- Host a fundraising event (e.g., “Hot Cocoa Stroll” or partner with a holiday market) to raise scholarship funds.
- Publicize opportunities at community events, Rotary meetings, and through local schools and youth groups.
- Arrange for informational booths at cultural, school, or holiday events in Grayslake, Gurnee, and Waukegan to recruit mentors and share application info.
These initiatives directly support Rotary’s focus areas of Community Health and Education/Youth, while addressing timely and specific needs in the Lake County area.
1. Safe Disposal and Awareness Campaign for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Context:
A recent incident occurred where a lithium-ion battery caused a fire inside a garbage truck in Lake Forest due to improper disposal. With the growing use of rechargeable devices, improper battery disposal poses severe environmental and public safety risks locally and beyond. This issue directly maps to Rotary’s area of focus on the environment and community safety.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest Fire Department
- Lake County Solid Waste Management District (SWALCO)
- Local schools (public and private) for youth education and outreach
- Municipal waste collectors (e.g., Groot Industries)
Next Steps:
- Outreach: Contact Lake Forest Fire Department and SWALCO to develop a community-wide awareness campaign about safely disposing of lithium-ion batteries.
- Collection Drives: Organize quarterly free battery take-back or recycling events at local schools, community centers, and with municipal partners.
- Education Materials: Develop kid-friendly flyers, infographics, and public service announcements to distribute through schools, social media, and community newsletters.
- Rotary Action: Form a subcommittee within the club to coordinate logistics, volunteers, and promotion. Seek sponsorships or matching grants for event supplies and advertising.
2. STEM Empowerment and Mathalon Support for Local Middle School Girls
Context:
Local middle school girls from Lake Bluff Middle School and School of St. Mary recently placed in the Woodlands Academy Mathalon, highlighting strong but possibly under-resourced interest in STEM among area youth, especially girls. Supporting girls in STEM aligns with Rotary’s focus on education and youth empowerment.
Potential Partners:
- Woodlands Academy
- Lake Bluff Middle School and School of St. Mary
- Local STEM professionals or businesses (AbbVie, Abbott, Medline), especially those with women in STEM roles
- Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois
Next Steps:
- Mentor Program: Collaborate with schools and local STEM employers to start a mentorship program for middle school girls, including hands-on activities, mentorship lunches, and career days. Recruit women Rotarians and community STEM professionals as mentors.
- Sponsor Events/Scholarships: Offer funding for transportation, registration, supplies, and workshops for next year’s Mathalon and related STEM competitions.
- Expanded Outreach: Host a “Girls in STEM Day” at a local library or community center, open to girls from Waukegan, Gurnee, and across Lake County.
- Rotary Action: Establish a planning committee, seek grant support, and coordinate with school administrators and local businesses for speakers, mentors, and logistical support.
1. Supporting First Responders and Military Families During Hardship
Area of Focus: Community Economic Development, Supporting Families of Public Safety Personnel
Context: Recent news reports highlight that firefighters at Naval Station Great Lakes are working without pay amid the federal government shutdown, compounding economic hardship for these vital first responders and their families. This is likely affecting their well-being and ability to meet basic needs, especially as the situation drags on.
Potential Partners:
- Naval Station Great Lakes Fire Department and administration
- Local veterans’ organizations (e.g., Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission)
- Food banks (e.g., Northern Illinois Food Bank)
- Rotary clubs in neighboring towns
- Local businesses and GLMV Chamber of Commerce
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Naval Station Great Lakes public information office to assess specific needs (e.g., grocery gift cards, utility assistance, child care stipends).
- Coordinate a fundraising campaign or supply drive (gift cards, meals, care packages).
- Host a community appreciation event benefiting first responders and their families, raising awareness and funds.
- Partner with local media to spotlight the effort and encourage community donations.
- Explore direct support options for any military families or first responders in crisis, leveraging Rotary’s compassionate grant funding where appropriate.
2. Enhancing Youth Safety and Trauma Response Education
Area of Focus: Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution, Youth Services, Education
Context: A recent fatal attack in Libertyville, a stabbing in Mundelein, and cases involving school safety and abuse in Lake County reveal ongoing community concerns about youth safety, mental health, and trauma. Incidents like these increase anxiety among families and highlight the need for better preventative education, trauma response resources, and youth resilience training.
Potential Partners:
- Local police departments and school resource officers
- School districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Libertyville
- Social service agencies (e.g., Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center)
- NAMI Lake County (mental health advocacy)
- Youth-oriented organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs)
Next Steps:
- Survey area schools and law enforcement to identify gaps in youth safety programming and trauma training.
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored seminar series for parents, students, and educators on conflict resolution, recognizing/reporting abuse, and mental health resilience.
- Seek expert presenters from local mental health organizations and advocacy groups.
- Collaborate with area youth clubs to provide ongoing, Rotary-supported mentoring, peer mediation, or afterschool safe spaces.
- Apply for Rotary or district grants to fund trauma kits, educational materials, and training sessions.
Both opportunities directly address acute, recent community needs, engage key partners, and support Rotary’s mission and areas of focus.