Based on the news stories from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL from November 11, 2025, here are two recommended Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Nutrition & Healthy Cooking Program (Community Health, Education)
Context: The story featuring Rachel Riggs and her health-focused cookbook, “In Good Health,” underscores increasing community interest and need for good nutrition, especially for those with chronic illnesses or dietary restrictions. Additionally, Ellie Krieger’s healthy pasta recipe highlights a broader trend toward incorporating nutritious, affordable meals into daily life—a need that may be even more acute among housebound individuals, low-income families, and seniors in the Lake County area.
Potential Partners: - Rachel Riggs (local author/cookbook writer) - Local social services agencies (e.g., Lake County Health Department, Northern Illinois Food Bank) - Local libraries (e.g., Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library) - Grocery stores and farmers markets
Next Steps: - Reach out to Rachel Riggs and the Lake County Health Department to discuss collaborative workshops on healthy, affordable cooking. - Partner with local libraries to host a rotating series of healthy cooking classes or meal kit pick-up days. - Organize a fundraising event or grant campaign through the Rotary club to supply free or low-cost cookbooks, meal kits, and nutrition counseling to residents in need. - Recruit Rotary volunteers to assist with class organization, ingredient procurement, transportation for the homebound, and outreach.
2. Lake County Youth Scholarship Expansion and STEM Mentoring (Education, Youth Development)
Context: DuPage County’s recent $54,000 scholarship awards to local students demonstrate the positive impact such support can have. It points to a local desire for expanded educational opportunities in neighboring counties like Lake County, where many students face barriers to higher education, particularly in STEM fields.
Potential Partners: - Local high schools (e.g., Warren Township High School, Waukegan High School) - College of Lake County or Rosalind Franklin University - Rotary District 6440 Youth Programs - Local businesses interested in workforce development
Next Steps: - Convene area education leaders to assess gaps in scholarship and mentoring availability, focusing on first-generation and under-resourced youth. - Launch an annual Rotary Youth Scholarship for Lake County high school seniors, with a focus on STEM or public service. - Pair the scholarship with a volunteer mentoring program, where Rotary members and business partners provide career advice, college application support, and STEM workshops. - Organize an annual fundraising gala or online giving campaign to sustain multiple scholarships and program costs.
Each of these initiatives aligns with Rotary’s commitment to community health, education, and youth empowerment, and leverages local stories and needs to create targeted, high-impact programs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and the wider Lake County community.
1. Community Health and Safety Initiative: Winter Driving Safety & Emergency Preparedness
Context:
A recent snowstorm in Lake County led to dramatically varied snowfall across the region, resulting in 25 vehicle crashes and a fatal accident in Gurnee that also critically injured three people. This underlines the ongoing need for improved community awareness and resources related to winter driving safety, preparedness for hazardous weather, and emergency readiness—a clear Rotary area of focus.
Potential Partners:
- Local police and fire departments (especially Gurnee and Lake County Sheriff’s Office)
- Hospital and EMS providers (e.g., Advocate Condell Medical Center)
- Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) - Gurnee Maintenance Yard
- School districts (to reach young/inexperienced drivers)
- Insurance agencies (State Farm or Allstate local agents)
Next Steps:
1. Contact the Gurnee Police Department and Lake County Sheriff’s Office to coordinate a community safety seminar.
2. Organize a Rotary-sponsored “Winter Driving & Emergency Ready” expo to distribute kits containing items like blankets, ice scrapers, and first-aid supplies.
3. Offer workshops at local high schools and community centers; include simulations and short traffic safety talks.
4. Engage local media to promote the event and share critical winter driving tips.
5. Seek sponsorships from local businesses to cover supply costs and print materials.
6. Evaluate event impact with a follow-up survey and explore making it an annual autumn initiative.
2. Environmental Stewardship: Community Compost & Food Waste Education Campaign
Context:
Lake County’s interest in environmental sustainability is evident from the success of the Highland Park “pumpkin smash” event, which drew high participation and enthusiasm for composting and diverting organic material from landfills. With pumpkin events on the rise, there is strong momentum to expand community education on food waste reduction, composting, and practical household sustainability.
Potential Partners:
- SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County, Illinois)
- Local libraries (Waukegan and Gurnee Public Library)
- Park districts and community centers
- Local farms or garden clubs (for compost site tours or partnerships)
- Schools (environmental clubs or science classes)
Next Steps:
1. Meet with SWALCO and local library teams to plan a public educational campaign on composting and food waste.
2. Develop and distribute Rotary-branded composting starter kits at upcoming community events (like farmers markets or the next pumpkin smash).
3. Organize guest speaker presentations and hands-on workshops for families and youth groups.
4. Collaborate with local schools to launch or support school garden programs using community-generated compost.
5. Use Rotary channels—social media, newsletters, and website—to share “how-to” videos and stories of local composting champions.
6. Track participation rates and feedback for continuous improvement and expanded program reach.
By focusing on immediate community safety needs and building on proven interest in environmental action, these Rotary projects will provide visible, meaningful impact across Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County.
1. Youth Literacy and Achievement Celebration Event
Context:
Lake County seventh-grader Visharad Sathish’s advancement to the Scripps National Spelling Bee highlights area excellence in literacy and youth achievement. Additionally, participation from 73 schools and hundreds of students in the local spelling bee shows a wide interest in academic enrichment and literacy in the community. Rotary International prioritizes education and literacy as a key area of focus.
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts (e.g., Woodland District 50, Gurnee District 56, Waukegan Public Schools)
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Parents and Teachers Associations (PTAs)
- Local public libraries (e.g., Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library)
- Media partners such as the Lake County News-Sun
Next Steps:
- Organize a county-wide youth literacy celebration event, honoring participants and winners of the spelling bee, with keynote speakers, spelling exhibitions, and interactive literacy activities for families.
- Use the event as a fundraiser (book fair, raffle, or sponsorships) to support school literacy programs, provide spelling bee participation scholarships, and distribute free books to underserved students in Gurnee, Waukegan, and nearby towns.
- Reach out to Visharad Sathish and his family to invite them as event ambassadors.
- Form a committee with school and library partners to coordinate logistics and outreach.
- Seek sponsorships from local businesses and civic groups for event costs and prizes.
2. Community Road Safety and Youth Injury Prevention
Context:
A recent report indicated a snowstorm-related crash in Gurnee that resulted in a fatality and critical injuries. Inclement weather often leads to increased vehicular accidents and youth injuries, raising concern about safety and awareness, particularly for teen drivers. Rotary focuses on community health and safety, making this a relevant area for service.
Potential Partners:
- Local police and fire departments (Gurnee Police, Lake County Sheriff)
- Lake County Health Department
- School driver’s education programs
- Gurnee Mills and local insurance agencies
- Advocate Condell Medical Center (or other area hospitals)
Next Steps:
- Develop and deliver a “Safe Driving in All Seasons” program for local schools and youth organizations, focusing on winter driving safety, accident prevention, and first aid basics.
- Organize an educational workshop or simulation event (possibly at Gurnee Mills or a high school) combining talks from first responders, live demonstrations (such as seatbelt convincers), and resource booths.
- Fundraise for “Safe Winter Kits” for teen drivers (ice scrapers, reflectors, first aid supplies) to distribute at the event.
- Collaborate with driving schools and insurance agencies for sponsorship, materials, and session leaders.
- Schedule meetings with school principals or youth group leaders to identify student needs, select event dates, and align the program with existing safety education initiatives.
1. Community Health and Senior Support: "VetCare Connect"—Rotary & Assure Home Assist Veterans Day Senior Care Initiative
Context:
A recent event in Grayslake highlights Assure Home Assist’s launch of a free 2-hour in-home care program in honor of Veterans Day. This addresses two key concerns: supporting seniors (especially veterans) who may need assistance at home and honoring those who served. The aging population in Lake County, and a growing need for accessible help for older adults and veterans, remains a top local social concern. Many seniors, especially isolated ones, benefit greatly from companionship, safety checks, or chores assistance.
Potential Partners:
- Assure Home Assist (already running this program)
- VFW and American Legion posts in Grayslake, Gurnee, Waukegan
- Lake County Senior Services
- Local high school Interact Clubs (for youth volunteer engagement)
- Senior centers and churches
Next Steps:
- Contact Assure Home Assist to offer Rotary’s volunteer support, potential funding, or expansion options (e.g., more hours, holiday care packages, or transportation for medical visits).
- Form a Rotary committee to coordinate member and youth club volunteers for friendly visits or home chores.
- Promote the program through Rotary, partner networks, and social media leading up to Veterans Day and beyond, with a goal of making it a recurring or expanded community service.
- Explore possibilities for adding a small fundraising effort (e.g., "Sponsor a Vet’s Care Hour") to help cover costs for those in financial need.
2. Environment and Youth: "Pumpkin Cycle"—Rotary & Lake County Pumpkin Recycling/Composting Drive
Context:
Grayslake and Lake County have launched a fun pumpkin recycling initiative in response to the large volume of food waste post-Halloween. Pumpkin waste is both an environmental issue (landfill methane) and an educational opportunity, as many families are eager to “do the right thing” but lack local composting options. Engaging schools and youth around visible, action-oriented environmental stewardship is directly tied to Rotary goals.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves (may host drop-off locations)
- Village of Grayslake, Public Works, Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO)
- Local schools/Environment Clubs (Grayslake High, Waukegan High, etc.)
- Local food pantries (for compostable/animal feed pumpkins)
- Eco-friendly businesses (nurseries, hardware, composting services)
Next Steps:
- Set up Rotary-sponsored pumpkin collection stations at highly visible locations (schools, park districts, library parking lots).
- Launch a “Pumpkin Cycle” youth education contest or event—art, science, posters, or video social campaigns explaining why composting matters.
- Collaborate with SWALCO for hauling/composting logistics and educational materials.
- Leverage Rotary presence for a fundraising angle (e.g., donations accepted at drop-off stations, or sponsor-a-load for compost processing).
- Host a culminating event to celebrate the total volume recycled, thank volunteers, and highlight environmental benefits—make it an annual tradition involving more Lake County towns each year.
1. "Veterans & Seniors Wellness Day" in partnership with Assure Home Assist
Rotary Focus Area: Community Health / Supporting the Elderly
Context: The event listing notes Assure Home Assist, Inc. is offering free in-home care for Veterans Day. This highlights both a need and an existing partner dedicated to supporting seniors and veterans in the Libertyville-Gurnee-Lake County area. Growing populations of elderly, many of whom are veterans, face challenges accessing healthcare, nutrition, and social connection.
Potential Partners:
- Assure Home Assist, Inc. (primary partner)
- Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission
- Local health providers (Advocate Aurora, Northwestern Medicine)
- Gurnee and Waukegan Senior Centers
- Youth volunteers from local high schools or colleges
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with Assure Home Assist to schedule a community-wide "Veterans & Seniors Wellness Day" event near Veterans Day (November or May for Memorial Day).
- Provide free health screenings (blood pressure, glucose, fall risk), distribute information on available support services, and offer on-site consultation for in-home care.
- Include social programming (music, crafts, lunch), and wellness workshops (nutrition, fitness for seniors).
- Organize a related fundraiser: "Adopt-a-Veteran" drive where community members and businesses can sponsor hours of in-home care or transport for isolated seniors/veterans.
- Promote through Patch, local libraries, faith communities, and senior residences for maximum reach.
2. "Neuro Universe Resource Fair: Neurodiversity Support & Inclusion Project"
Rotary Focus Area: Education / Supporting Youth and Vulnerable Populations
Context: The Neuro Universe Celebration & Resource Fair (Vernon Hills, Nov 15) shows strong local momentum for supporting neurodiverse youth and families (autism, ADHD, learning differences). Because there is ongoing unmet need for educational resources, caregiver respite, and community acceptance, the Rotary can create sustained impact.
Potential Partners:
- Neuro Universe and other local neurodiversity advocates
- College of Lake County’s Disabilities Office
- Special education departments at Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake schools
- Youth volunteers and peer mentors
- Local businesses for job training or sponsorship
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with Neuro Universe to expand the annual Resource Fair into a year-round support network (workshops, peer groups, monthly meetups for families).
- Plan a Rotary-hosted fundraising event (e.g., inclusive fun run, art show featuring neurodiverse students' works), with proceeds funding sensory-friendly kits for classrooms or scholarships for neurodiverse youth programs.
- Facilitate a volunteer training program so Rotary members can offer respite, tutoring, or recreational activities throughout the year.
- Seek grants and community sponsors to underwrite the cost and raise visibility of neurodiversity acceptance initiatives in Lake County schools and workplaces.
1. Safe Disposal and Public Education Campaign for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Context:
A recent fire was reported at a Lake Forest waste facility after a discarded lithium-ion battery caught fire in a garbage truck. As battery-powered devices become more common, safe disposal has become a significant public safety and environmental concern, as improper disposal can cause fires and environmental contamination. Many residents are unaware of how to properly discard household batteries.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest Fire Department
- SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County)
- Local schools and parent-teacher associations (PTAs)
- Village of Lake Forest and City of Waukegan Public Works Departments
- Local retailers with battery recycling programs (e.g., Home Depot, Best Buy)
Next Steps:
- Organize a Rotary-led awareness campaign with informational flyers and social media posts about battery safety and recycling, in partnership with the Fire Department.
- Collaborate with SWALCO and local municipalities to schedule a collection day for batteries and electronics, possibly at a central site like a community center or school parking lot.
- Recruit volunteers for safe collection events and staff drop-off stations.
- Seek sponsorship or fundraising (e.g., through a community dinner or online giving campaign) to help cover costs for signage, safety equipment, and transportation of collected materials.
2. Supporting Independence and Social Connection for Older Adults
Context:
Lake County Partners in Aging, a recent Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board grant recipient, supports older adults and their caregivers—providing services that help maintain independence, dignity, and connection. With an aging population, the need for volunteer companionship, access to services, and caregiver relief is growing, particularly among isolated or low-income seniors in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding communities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Partners in Aging
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- Local faith-based organizations
- Local high schools or colleges with service-learning programs
- Senior centers in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding towns
Next Steps:
- Meet with Lake County Partners in Aging to identify current needs and possible gaps in companionship services, meal deliveries, or transportation resources.
- Develop a Rotary “Adopt-a-Senior” program, enlisting Rotarians and vetted community volunteers to make regular friendly visits, deliver care packages, or offer rides to medical appointments and grocery stores.
- Organize a fundraising effort (such as a pancake breakfast or silent auction) to help buy supplies, cover gas cards, or fund social events for seniors.
- Coordinate with local schools to involve youth as companions or tech tutors, bridging generational gaps and advancing Rotary’s youth engagement goals.
Both projects fit Rotary's focus areas—environment, community health, supporting the elderly, and youth involvement—and respond directly to recent developments and local needs.
1. Project: Child & Family Trauma Support Following Recent Fatal Crashes
Context:
There have recently been multiple fatal car crashes in Lake County, including Gurnee, with several children injured and families affected by trauma and loss (e.g., the incident involving Bria Allen, which also injured a 5-year-old and an 8-month-old). Rotary’s focus on community health and supporting families is highly relevant.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center - Nicasa Behavioral Health Services - Local hospitals, such as Advocate Condell Medical Center - Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center
Next Steps: 1. Reach out to the Lake County Health Department and Nicasa to discuss current gaps in mental health and trauma care for families affected by vehicular tragedies. 2. Organize a service project to provide trauma counseling support and emergency kits for children and families facing crisis situations. 3. Plan a fundraising campaign or benefit event (such as a run/walk or family fair) with proceeds funding counseling scholarships and support materials. 4. Recruit volunteers for transportation to services and child care during parents’ appointments.
2. Project: Support for Naval Station Great Lakes First Responders During Federal Shutdowns
Context:
Reports indicate firefighters at Naval Station Great Lakes are currently working without pay due to the ongoing government shutdown. This creates financial stress and may affect health and morale. Rotary’s focus areas of supporting peace, safety, and economic/community development align well with assisting these essential workers.
Potential Partners: - Naval Station Great Lakes Fire Dept. - Lake County Veterans and Family Services Foundation - Operation Homefront - USO of Illinois - Local businesses willing to provide in-kind support (groceries, fuel cards, meals)
Next Steps: 1. Convene with representatives from the Fire Department and military family support organizations to confirm needs (food, financial help, counseling, child care). 2. Develop a "First Responder Relief Drive" to collect gift cards, groceries, or direct cash assistance for affected families. 3. Organize community meals (with local restaurants or congregations) for firefighters and their families. 4. Use Rotary Club platforms for advocacy—petitioning local businesses to offer discounts and support so essential workers can better weather future shutdowns. Set up a Rotarian committee to coordinate ongoing support as needed.
Both projects would have real and timely impact, building on Rotary’s strengths and existing community relationships.