Certainly! Based on available coverage and the context of current challenges and discussions in Lake County—including Gurnee and Waukegan—here are two timely, Rotary-aligned service or fundraising opportunities:
1. Community Health and Energy Education Initiative in Partnership with Local Schools
Context:
Recent editorials highlight ongoing concerns about rising electricity costs, the impact of climate change, and state energy legislation. There is both anxiety and a need for community education about sustainable energy and cost-saving measures, which directly impacts lower-income families and schools already facing budget constraints. Rotary International's focus on "Community Health" and "Environment" aligns with tackling energy poverty and environmental education.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County school districts (e.g., Waukegan Public Schools, Gurnee School District 56)
- Local nonprofits like North Shore Gas Energy Assistance
- Illinois Green Alliance
- Youth groups such as local Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts
- Environmental Science teachers
Next Steps:
- Organize Rotary-led workshops at schools and community centers focusing on energy conservation, health impacts of climate change, and available assistance for high utility bills.
- Develop an educational fundraiser: sell energy-saving kits (weatherstripping, LED bulbs, etc.), with proceeds supporting both Rotary efforts and donations to families in need.
- Partner with schools to host a “Sustainable Home Challenge,” encouraging students to take actionable steps at home and report savings/impacts, with Rotary awarding prizes or scholarships.
- Reach out to school administrators and environmental science teachers to schedule workshops and brainstorm additional collaborative projects.
2. Civics and Public Service Learning Series for Local Youth
Context:
Letter columns and community discussions reflect deep concern about political polarization, civic engagement, understanding government, and the importance of civil discourse—issues particularly relevant to youth growing up in this fractured environment. Rotary’s commitment to "Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention," "Education," and "Youth" offers a strong rationale for intervention.
Potential Partners:
- Local high school social studies/government clubs (e.g., Gurnee’s Warren Township High School, Waukegan High School)
- The Lake County Bar Association for mock government or law events
- Public libraries (Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library)
- The League of Women Voters – Lake County
Next Steps:
- Launch a Rotary “Civic Engagement and Public Service” speaker series at libraries or schools, bringing in nonpartisan experts, local officials, and community leaders to talk with students and parents.
- Support or expand existing mock town hall, Model UN, or government simulation programs with Rotary scholarships or mentorship.
- Include a “Day of Service” where students can shadow local officials, tour government offices, and learn about public service careers.
- Organize a youth essay or art contest on the theme “Building Civil Communities,” with winners recognized at Rotary events or in local media.
- Meet with school activity coordinators and local library programming staff to align curriculum or schedules.
These efforts address immediate, news-reflected community needs—supporting both tangible relief (energy/health) and longer-term investment in an informed, civically-engaged next generation. Both initiatives leverage Rotary’s existing community connections and offer strong service and fundraising potential.
Based on recent news and community trends in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, Illinois, here are two recommended Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Health Outreach: Addressing Health Insurance Gaps
Rotary Focus Area: Disease Prevention and Treatment, Community Economic Development
Context:
Recent reporting highlights the uncertainty surrounding federal health insurance subsidies and a potential increase in health care costs for hundreds of thousands of Illinois residents, including many in Lake County (Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, Nov. 16, 2025). With more families potentially losing affordable coverage or needing guidance, there is a timely need for public health education, insurance navigation support, and help accessing low-cost care.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- Erie Family Health Centers (Waukegan)
- Local community colleges (College of Lake County: health navigation programs)
- Federally Qualified Health Centers
- Local social service agencies (Catholic Charities, Mano a Mano Family Resource Center)
Next Steps:
- Organize a community health fair in Waukegan or Gurnee. Include free screenings, flu vaccines, and insurance navigation booths staffed by experts.
- Offer workshops (in English and Spanish) on how to access care, navigate changes in insurance, and connect to available programs.
- Conduct a fundraising drive to create an "emergency medical fund" for families caught by subsidy interruptions.
- Promote partnerships with local media (like Lake County News-Sun) to distribute information about upcoming events and available resources.
- Reach out to partners above to form a steering committee and set an event date within the next two months.
2. Youth Engagement: Supporting Local High School Sports and Well-being
Rotary Focus Area: Youth Service, Education, Community Development
Context:
With several area high schools participating in the IHSA football playoffs and articles highlighting both athletic achievement and the role of sports in student life (Chicago Tribune/Lake County News-Sun coverage, Nov. 2025), there is renewed energy around youth engagement. However, not all local youth have equal access to extracurricular activities, athletic equipment, or scholarships needed to participate and thrive.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County high schools and athletic departments (Waukegan High, Warren Township High School, etc.)
- Local businesses (e.g., fitness centers, sporting good stores)
- IHSA (Illinois High School Association)
- Youth mentoring organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Waukegan Park District, Gurnee Park District
Next Steps:
- Launch a fundraising campaign ("Level the Field") to provide equipment grants and athletic scholarships for local students from low-income families.
- Host a community sports day or skills clinic, featuring local coaches and student-athletes, to promote healthy activity and teamwork.
- Collaborate with school counselors and coaches to identify youth most in need and distribute resources equitably.
- Develop a Rotary youth mentorship program, leveraging volunteers to support students on and off the field—helping with homework, college applications, and personal growth.
- Meet with school district representatives and potential sponsors to align on program details and launch timeline, aiming for spring 2026 implementation.
Certainly! Here are two Rotary service or fundraising project ideas for the Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL area, based on recent news and community needs, and aligned with Rotary's areas of focus:
1. “Lake County Youth Scholars Fund” – Education Enhancement Program
Context:
A Lake County seventh-grader, Visharad Sathish, recently won a marathon local spelling bee and will represent the community at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This highlights the area’s youth talent and the impact of educational enrichment activities, yet many outstanding students face financial barriers when participating in national academic competitions.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee District 56)
- Parents/Teachers Associations
- Local library networks and educational foundations
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with the Regional Office of Education to identify students annually who qualify for national or state-level academic competitions and whose families face financial constraints.
- Launch a fundraising drive (spelling bee event, trivia night, or read-a-thon) to create a scholarship fund that offsets travel, lodging, and participation fees for these students and their guardians.
- Feature local scholars’ stories—including Visharad Sathish’s—to build community interest and inspire donations.
- Partner with local media outlets to publicize the scholarship recipients’ achievements and Rotary’s involvement.
2. “Rotary Reads & Seeds” – Promoting Literacy and Environmental Stewardship
Context:
As local pride in academic achievement grows (evidenced by Visharad Sathish’s spelling bee win), the community can benefit from further efforts to promote youth literacy. Additionally, Lake County communities such as Waukegan and Gurnee continue to prioritize local green spaces and environmental awareness. Combining these priorities can teach kids and families about stewardship and reading through hands-on activities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Waukegan and Gurnee public libraries
- Environmental clubs at local schools
- Local businesses (for sponsorships or supplies)
Next Steps:
- Organize a “Rotary Reads & Seeds” community event in a park or at a library, where volunteers read children’s books that focus on nature, gardening, and the environment.
- Follow up the story time with a seed planting activity, where every child takes home a seed pot and instructions (or create a community garden bed).
- Distribute free age-appropriate books about the environment and literacy thanks to donated funds or books from partners.
- Make the event annual and track reading habits and participation via library partnerships; invite local student champions like Visharad Sathish to read or speak at these events.
These opportunities align directly with Rotary’s focus on education, youth empowerment, and community/environmental health while leveraging current events and district pride to maximize community engagement.
1. Youth Mental Health and Positive Engagement Project
Context:
Recent incidents involving local teens—including the case of a Grayslake teen charged after attempting to disarm a peace officer—signal heightened concerns about youth mental health, community safety, and positive engagement opportunities. This aligns with Rotary's focus areas of supporting education and youth, as well as building peace and conflict prevention/resolution.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Central and North High Schools, Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School
- Lake County Health Department (Behavioral Health Services)
- Existing youth services organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center)
- Local law enforcement’s community engagement officers
Next Steps:
a) Convene a roundtable of local educators, mental health professionals, law enforcement, and youth group leaders to identify gaps and opportunities.
b) Develop a weekend youth leadership and mental health summit or mentorship program with workshops on conflict resolution, healthy choices, and community pride.
c) Seek Rotary club volunteers for mentorship roles and connect with school counselors for student outreach.
d) Secure a small grant (e.g., Rotary District Grant) or co-host a fundraising event (joint trivia night, run/walk, family carnival) to support programming and resources like training, refreshments, and educational materials.
2. Lake County Food Security Initiative
Context:
Local reporting notes a spike in food pantry visits across the Chicago area (including Grayslake, Waukegan, and broader Lake County), echoing a broader concern of increased food insecurity. This supports Rotary's focus on community health, disease prevention, and supporting basic needs.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Cool Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan), Avon Township Community Food Pantry (Grayslake), Urban Muslim Minority Alliance (UMMA) Center
- Local businesses and grocery stores (for surplus food or donations)
- School districts for distribution to families
Next Steps:
a) Launch a “Food for Families” month—coordinate food drives at schools, local businesses, and faith organizations.
b) Organize hands-on volunteer days at pantries or as a delivery team for homebound/elderly clients.
c) Engage local chefs or nutritionists for healthy cooking classes at pantries or community centers as an educational component.
d) Plan a community fundraising dinner or sponsor-a-family campaign to further supplement food pantry inventory and outreach.
Both proposed initiatives meet immediate needs and build positive Rotary visibility while directly benefiting youth and vulnerable families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County.
1. Youth Scholarship Support and Expansion for Lake County Students
Context:
There is a "Kim Muno Scholarship Goal" event happening at Libertyville High School through Open Doors to Education. With the rising costs of college and technical training, access to scholarships is a key barrier for youth in Waukegan, Gurnee, and across Lake County, especially for first-generation college students and low-income families.
Potential Partners:
- Open Doors to Education at Libertyville High School
- Local high schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake
- College of Lake County Foundation
- Local businesses and civic organizations interested in education (e.g., State Bank of The Lakes)
Next Steps:
- Connect with Open Doors to Education and the organizers of the Kim Muno Scholarship to explore gaps in current scholarships or unmet needs among students.
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored fundraising event (e.g., benefit dinner, online auction) in coordination with the existing scholarship program, with all proceeds augmenting available scholarship funds.
- Offer a Rotary mentoring program alongside the scholarships for recipients to support their transition into higher education or vocational training.
- Publicize the partnership within Rotary networks and local media to attract additional donors and mentors.
2. Community Health and Social Connection at Seasonal Markets
Context:
The Grayslake Farmers Market (Fall, November 22) brings the community together and provides access to fresh, healthy food. These markets are valuable touchpoints for addressing food insecurity, promoting nutrition (a key part of community health), and building social connections—areas of increased concern recently in northern Lake County communities.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake Farmers Market organizers
- Local farms and food vendors
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Health departments from Lake County
- 4H Clubs or local high school service groups
Next Steps:
- Set up a Rotary booth at the Fall Grayslake Farmers Market for health education, “Meet the Rotary” info, and collecting donations for local food pantries.
- Organize a healthy recipe demonstration or nutrition workshop for children and families using market ingredients, possibly in partnership with local high school culinary programs or the Greenery Garden Club.
- Launch a “Fresh Food for All” fundraising campaign at the market, funding vouchers for low-income families to use with vendors, in collaboration with the Northern Illinois Food Bank.
- Use the event to recruit volunteers and raise awareness for Rotary’s ongoing health and nutrition initiatives in the region.
1. Service Project: Senior Connection & Wellness Initiative in Collaboration with Lake County Partners in Aging
Context:
Recent news highlighted the urgent work of Lake County Partners in Aging, a Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board grant recipient. The organization focuses on supporting older adults and caregivers, prioritizing independence, dignity, and connection for seniors in Lake County, a population often facing isolation, health challenges, and limited access to services.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Partners in Aging
- Local senior centers (e.g., Waukegan Park District, Gurnee Senior Center)
- Healthcare providers (NorthShore University HealthSystem)
- Mental Health Boards and social work services
- Student and youth volunteers from area schools
Next Steps:
- Contact Lake County Partners in Aging to identify current gaps: transportation, friendly home visits, health education, or technology training for seniors.
- Recruit volunteers for intergenerational programs, potentially involving local high school students or Rotaract clubs for technology tutoring and social connection events ("Senior Tech Days" or "Game Nights").
- Organize wellness screenings in partnership with healthcare providers—blood pressure checks, nutrition counseling.
- Fundraise through a benefit breakfast or "Adopt-a-Grandparent" campaign, directing support toward programs combating loneliness and providing essential supplies.
- Seek small grants from Rotary District and invite local media to broaden awareness.
2. Fundraising & Service Project: Youth Educational Equity – Supporting Toys For Tots and Beyond
Context:
Recent Patch coverage featured local efforts for the Toys for Tots program, which is especially active during the holiday season and provides toys and books to children in need in Lake County. This initiative highlights broader issues of educational and social inequities, particularly for youth in Waukegan and Gurnee, where many families face economic hardship.
Potential Partners:
- Toys for Tots Lake County Chapter
- Local schools and PTA organizations (Waukegan Public Schools, Gurnee School District 56)
- Public libraries and youth centers
- Businesses (Waukegan Tire, Lake County business sponsors)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate a Rotarian-led toy, book, and winter coat drive in December, leveraging club networks and partner businesses as drop-off locations.
- Expand the program beyond December by organizing a "Spring into Literacy" book drive and reading event at local schools.
- Host fundraising events (virtual trivia, family fun runs) supporting both Toys for Tots and year-round youth enrichment (after-school programs, summer camps).
- Involve youth in the effort through service learning—high school students can help sort, distribute, and read to younger children during community events.
- Publicize successes and needs regularly via Patch and school newsletters, inviting further community support and partnership with other like-minded service organizations.
These projects directly address Rotary’s focus areas: supporting healthy aging, broadening youth opportunity and education, and building strong community connections through both hands-on service and fundraising initiatives.
1. Winter Preparedness & Emergency Kits for Vulnerable Residents
Rotary Focus: Community Health & Emergency Response
Context: Recent news reports detail an early winter storm impacting northeastern Illinois, including Libertyville, Gurnee, and Lake County. Early heavy snowfall, power outages, and extreme cold can critically affect seniors, low-income families, and homeless individuals—especially as winter severity increases. Many local residents may not have proper supplies or information to cope with unexpected winter emergencies.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department - PADS Lake County (homeless services) - Local food banks (e.g., Northern Illinois Food Bank) - Waukegan and Gurnee Fire & Police Departments - Local senior centers (e.g., Waukegan Township’s Senior Services)
Next Steps: 1. Convene with partner agencies to assess needs and inventory (e.g., blankets, hats, gloves, nonperishable food, flashlights, space heaters). 2. Launch a fundraising drive or Rotary Club project to purchase emergency kits or collect donated items. 3. Organize public packing events for kits with Rotarians, youth volunteers, and partner staff. 4. Coordinate with municipal departments to distribute kits to those most at-risk, including outreach at local shelters and senior centers. 5. Offer educational workshops (possibly at libraries or community centers) on winter safety, emergency planning, and available resources.
2. Youth Digital Safety & Distracted Driving Awareness Campaign
Rotary Focus: Youth Support & Community Safety
Context: Recent headlines from Lake County highlight a fatal accident in Zion linked to a TikTok livestream and ongoing concerns about youth social media use and distracted driving. There is growing need for education and local prevention efforts to reduce risky behavior behind the wheel, especially among teens and young adults.
Potential Partners: - Gurnee and Waukegan High Schools - Lake County Sheriff’s Office, local police departments - Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) - Local driving schools - School Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs)
Next Steps: 1. Initiate dialogue with area high schools and law enforcement to identify current programming and gaps. 2. Organize school assemblies, workshops, or Rotary-sponsored community forums featuring speakers (e.g., victims’ families, law enforcement officials). 3. Develop and distribute engaging campaign materials (posters, videos, social media content) focused on safe driving, especially the dangers of livestreaming and phone use while driving. 4. Consider a student video contest (incentivized by small scholarships or prizes) to promote peer-to-peer messaging on digital responsibility and driving safety. 5. Partner with local businesses for sponsorship (printing/materials) and amplification of the campaign in the broader community.