1. Youth Bicycle Safety Initiative and Bike Giveaway
Context:
A recent report highlights that over 70,000 Illinois students will participate in the Bike Safety Quiz program from Ride Illinois, educating youth about safe bicycling. This widespread engagement underscores both the community’s interest in safe transportation and a continuing need for youth safety education.
Potential Partners:
- Ride Illinois (statewide bicycle advocacy group)
- Local schools in Gurnee and Waukegan
- Police departments (for safety clinics)
- Local bike shops (repair and equipment donations)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Contact Ride Illinois to collaborate on hosting in-person bike safety events in Gurnee and Waukegan schools.
- Establish a plan with local schools for an annual or biannual bike safety day, incorporating the Bike Safety Quiz and practical safety demonstrations.
- Organize a community-driven bicycle and helmet donation drive, sourcing gently used or new bikes from local residents and businesses; coordinate with local bike shops for repair support.
- Seek grant funding or sponsorship for purchasing bikes and helmets for children in need.
- Schedule an event where donated and refurbished bikes are distributed to local youth, paired with a safety check and helmet fitting.
- Engage Rotary volunteers as event facilitators and safety leaders.
Rotary Area of Focus: Youth, Community Health
2. Community Kitchen Deep-Clean and Food Safety Campaign
Context:
One news piece emphasizes the necessity of daily kitchen cleaning tasks to maintain health and safety. Food insecurity and community meal programs remain pressing issues in Lake County, with many local food pantries and soup kitchens operating at high capacity, especially during the holidays.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry in Waukegan
- PADS Lake County (homeless shelter with meal programs)
- Local churches with meal programs (e.g., St. Paul Lutheran in Gurnee)
- County Health Department
Next Steps:
- Identify and contact local community kitchens and pantries serving Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County to assess needs around kitchen sanitation and food handling training.
- Form Rotary-led “deep clean” volunteer teams to assist with periodic, thorough cleaning of kitchen facilities using best practices.
- Collaborate with the County Health Department to offer basic food handling and kitchen safety workshops to staff and volunteers at these organizations.
- Provide cleaning supplies, instructional posters, and potentially modest grants for kitchen equipment upgrades.
- Publicize the partnership and Rotary involvement to encourage other volunteer participation and donations, strengthening the network of organizations focused on food security and health.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health, Supporting the Environment (through safe food and waste practices)
Rotary Service and Fundraising Opportunities Based on Recent News from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL:
1. Support for Students with Special Needs (Education and Youth Focus)
Context:
The future of TrueNorth, a cooperative providing essential educational services for special-needs students in southeastern Lake County, is currently in question ("Fate of cooperative for special-needs students to be decided: ‘More focused and sustainable’"). There is a pressing need to ensure ongoing support for these students and their families, regardless of administrative restructuring.
Potential Partners: - TrueNorth Educational Cooperative - Local school districts and special education teachers - Rosalind Franklin University (leveraging their healthcare/therapy students for volunteerism) - Local parents’ advocacy groups
Next Steps: - Reach out to TrueNorth’s leadership (contact via school district or cooperative board) for dialogue on areas where Rotary can support continuity of education services or enhance access to adaptive technology. - Organize a fundraising campaign (e.g., benefit dinner, walk-a-thon, or online auction) focused on funding sensory equipment, summer programs, or transportation for students with special needs. - Collaborate with experts from Rosalind Franklin University to provide parent and educator workshops on inclusivity, mental health, and assistive technology.
2. Community Therapy and Socialization for Pets and Owners (Community Health & Social Inclusion Focus)
Context:
A recently-launched app in Lake County aims to "reduce the social isolation of people and pets" by facilitating playdates and therapy meetups. This highlights a local interest and need for expanded animal-assisted therapy and social connection, especially benefitting isolated residents such as seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing mental health challenges.
Potential Partners: - App developers/organizers (as featured in the news) - Local animal shelters and the Lake County Animal Care and Control - Senior centers (e.g., Waukegan Township Park Place Senior Center) - Healthcare providers and mental health advocates
Next Steps: - Contact the app’s creators (as featured in the News-Sun) to co-host inclusive community pet meetups and therapy dog events at local parks, senior centers, and schools. - Design a “Rotary Paws for Connection” event series, providing transportation and support for isolated community members to attend, while also raising awareness/funds for therapy animal training programs. - Expand fundraising to sponsor therapy animal visits to institutions that serve youth, the elderly, and those managing disabilities, leveraging Rotary’s volunteer base and club networks.
1. Youth Literacy and Academic Excellence Initiative
Context:
The story of Visharad Sathish, a 12-year-old from Lake County advancing to the National Spelling Bee, highlights both the academic talent and enthusiasm for language arts among the region’s youth. The regional spelling bee, organized by the Lake County Regional Office of Education and including dozens of local schools, draws significant interest and underscores a community value for literacy, reading, and education. Recognition of participants beyond the single national qualifier—and support for others who aspire to such competitions—can uplift the entire local student body.
Potential Rotary Project:
Establish a "Rotary Literacy Mentorship Program" to support spelling bee participants and broader literacy/reading initiatives in Lake County elementary and middle schools. This can include organizing spelling coaching sessions, reading clubs, book donations, and literacy workshops for students and parents.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (Superintendent Michael Karner, Assistant Superintendent Courtney Curry)
- Local schools (such as John Lewis Middle School, Lake Forest Country Day School, Matthews Middle School)
- Local libraries and library foundations (Waukegan and Gurnee Public Libraries)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Regional Superintendent Michael Karner to offer support for future spelling bees and explore a Rotary-sponsored “Spirit of Literacy” award for all finalists/participants
- Coordinate with school officials to launch an after-school spelling/literacy club, facilitated by Rotary volunteers and supported with donated resources
- Organize a fundraising event (e.g. adult-team community spelling bee) to support book purchases and future student participation costs (including travel for state/national competitions)
- Promote and schedule a Rotary Literacy Day with guest speakers, spelling demonstration rounds, and book giveaways
2. Rotary Youth Achievement Recognition and Support Fund
Context:
High-achieving students like Visharad Sathish and Ian Leong bring pride to Lake County, but opportunities to excel often come with financial barriers—such as travel, coaching, and registration for national or out-of-state competitions. Many families may lack resources to pursue these opportunities. In addition, community celebration and recognition for these achievements, both for winners and all dedicated participants, can help foster resilience, confidence, and wider youth engagement.
Potential Rotary Project:
Launch a “Rotary Young Achievers Fund” to support Lake County students who qualify for state and national competitions in academics, arts, and science—not just sports. The Fund can help offset travel, lodging, registration fees, and allow the community to collectively celebrate and empower its brightest young people.
Potential Partners:
- School districts and parent-teacher groups
- Local businesses (especially those focused on education, such as tutors, bookstores, and child enrichment centers)
- Media partners (Lake County News-Sun, local radio/TV stations) for recognition events
Next Steps:
- Work with the Lake County Regional Office of Education to define eligibility and identify students in need
- Announce the Fund publicly, inviting applications and nominating teachers
- Organize an annual “Rotary Young Achievers Celebration” event to honor participants, present awards, and recognize donors and partners (invite local media and elected officials to maximize community visibility)
- Establish an ongoing fundraising campaign—possibly with a community dinner, online auction, or social media challenge—for long-term sustainability
Both initiatives align with Rotary’s focus on education, youth, and supporting local communities, offering tangible impact with strong partnership potential in Gurnee, Waukegan, and throughout Lake County.
Certainly! Here are two Rotary service or fundraising project ideas based on recent news and clear community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL.
1. Food Security Initiative: Support for Local Food Pantries
Context:
Recent reports highlight a significant increase in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, including in Grayslake and the broader Lake County region. Rising grocery prices and ongoing economic insecurity are putting pressure on families and local pantries alike.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local food pantries (e.g., COOL Ministries, Mother’s Trust Foundation, Avon Township Food Pantry)
- Grayslake Woman’s Non-Profit (recently publicized for bringing community support to the ill)
- Local schools and faith-based organizations
Next Steps:
- Connect with local pantry managers to assess their most urgent needs (food staples, hygiene goods, volunteers).
- Organize a Rotary-hosted community food drive, leveraging club and partner networks for donations at high-traffic locations (farmers markets, schools, etc.).
- Seek grant funding or matching donations through Rotary International or local sponsors to maximize impact.
- Initiate a “Rotary Day of Service” where members volunteer on-site at pantries, helping with distribution and logistics.
- Promote the event through local news outlets and social media to raise awareness and encourage ongoing community support.
2. Mental Health and Crisis Response Support for Youth
Context:
Recent news of violent incidents, missing persons, and mental health crises in Grayslake and the surrounding area highlight community stress and the need for intervention, especially for youth and families. National and local trends show rising rates of anxiety, depression, and related challenges.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department (Behavioral Health Services)
- Schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake
- Youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, YouthBuild Lake County)
- NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Local law enforcement and crisis response teams
Next Steps:
- Host an educational forum or mental health resource fair at a school or community center, bringing together professionals, support groups, and advocacy organizations.
- Offer QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) or Mental Health First Aid training for parents, educators, and community volunteers, with Rotary underwriting participant fees.
- Launch a “Youth Resilience” grant program to fund school-based mental health initiatives, peer support clubs, or wellness spaces.
- Coordinate with schools to identify students most at risk and provide direct resources or mentorship.
- Publicize available hotlines and services via flyers, school newsletters, and social media to ensure families know where to turn in crisis.
Each project directly addresses Rotary’s areas of focus—community health, education, and support for youth—while responding to currently reported needs in the Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County region.
1. Community Health Initiative: Mobile Health & Wellness Fair
Context:
Recent increased demand for local health and wellness resources, especially among seniors and lower-income families in Lake County communities like Waukegan and Gurnee, point to ongoing healthcare access issues. With a "Mobile DMV" event scheduled for Libertyville Senior Center (Dec 12) and ongoing community engagement post-pandemic, there’s renewed focus on bringing essential services into neighborhoods for those who may have transportation barriers.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department & Community Health Center
- Libertyville Senior Center, Gurnee Park District, Waukegan Township
- Local hospitals (Advocate Condell, Vista Medical Center)
- Rotaract or Interact Clubs, local pharmacies
Next Steps: - Convene meeting with partners to assess timing (ideally late winter/early spring) and scope (flu shots, health screenings, nutrition advice, mental health resources). - Secure venue(s): Consider locations such as Gurnee Park District or centrally located school gymnasiums. - Develop marketing plan leveraging Patch, community newsletters, and flyers at current community events. - Recruit Rotarians for event-day volunteer roles—translators, greeters, logistical support. - Explore possibility of grant support from District 6440 or matching funds for direct health costs.
2. Education & Youth Empowerment: Scholarship and Mentoring Fundraiser
Context:
The Kim Muno Scholarship Goal event (Nov 30, Libertyville High School) and other youth-focused events signal ongoing needs for educational support, especially as economic hardship continues to impact local families. Supporting scholarships and robust mentorship/enrichment programming aligns with Rotary’s educational focus and leverages community interest around fall/holiday giving.
Potential Partners:
- Libertyville High School, College of Lake County, Waukegan School District 60
- Open Doors to Education, United Way of Lake County
- Local businesses (for event sponsorship/matching gifts)
- Alumni and parent groups, neighboring Rotary Clubs
Next Steps: - Contact Kim Muno Scholarship organizers and local school guidance counselors to coordinate efforts and identify at-risk or under-supported students. - Plan a collaborative fundraiser (e.g., benefit dinner, online auction) perhaps in tandem with a holiday community event—such as the "Hot Cocoa Stroll" in Vernon Hills or Ruth Page’s “The Nutcracker” at CLC. - Promote scholarship and mentorship opportunities at event, invite local professionals and Rotarians as mentors. - Establish transparent scholarship criteria and application process, ideally extending support to students in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County area. - Seek matching funds from local businesses and Rotary District to maximize impact.
Both projects address pressing local needs and align strongly with Rotary’s areas of focus on health and education. They will also strengthen partnerships and Rotary’s profile across Lake County.
Rotary Service & Fundraising Opportunities for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL
1. Holiday Toy Drive Expansion & Family Resource Fair (Area of Focus: Community Health & Youth)
Context:
The Lake Forest-Lake Bluff community is actively participating in the annual Toys for Tots program, collecting donations to provide gifts to children in need. The lingering economic and food insecurity in Waukegan and parts of Lake County suggest many families could use expanded support, especially during the holiday season. In addition, Patch highlights ongoing programs that reach underprivileged youth, indicating both need and community awareness.
Potential Partners:
- Toys for Tots (Lake County Chapter)
- Gurnee and Waukegan Public Schools
- Local churches and community centers (e.g., The Chapel, Waukegan)
- Waukegan Tire (as a community-involved business sponsor)
- Lake County Health Department (resource booth)
Next Steps:
a. Connect with the Lake County Toys for Tots coordinator to explore co-sponsoring or expanding drop-off locations in Gurnee and Waukegan, specifically targeting underserved neighborhoods.
b. Organize a “Family Resource Fair and Toy Giveaway” event in December at a school gym or community center. Provide not just toys, but also offer free health and dental checkups, flu shots, and information tables on local services.
c. Invite local businesses such as Waukegan Tire and other sponsors to supply prizes, food, or services.
d. Mobilize Rotarians and Interact youth to staff the event and coordinate logistics.
e. Launch a fundraising drive via Rotary and partners to purchase additional toys and fund event costs.
2. “Green Holidays” Tree Planting & Food Rescue Project (Area of Focus: Environment & Hunger)
Context:
With area grocery prices increasing ("IL Grocery Prices Have Increased: What That Means For The Holidays") and sustained concerns about food insecurity, need for healthy food access is acute. Simultaneously, the push for local holiday shopping and eco-consciousness provides an opportunity to tie environmental action to community support. Rotary could help address urban green spaces while also tackling waste and hunger.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County, IL)
- Local food pantries (e.g., Northern Illinois Food Bank/Waukegan satellite)
- Local grocers and farmers (Mariano’s, Jewel-Osco, Green City Market partners)
- School environmental or Interact clubs
Next Steps:
a. Organize a December “Green For Good” event: tree planting at a public park or school; at the same event, coordinate a food rescue/donation campaign collecting surplus, non-perishable, and fresh food from grocers, restaurants, and community members after Thanksgiving.
b. Work with SWALCO and local grocers to set up food recovery partnerships, directing rescued food to the nearest food banks/pantries.
c. Involve local youth (school clubs, Interact) in both the tree planting and food sorting/distribution, promoting youth engagement and sustainability.
d. Seek grant funding from Rotary District 6440 or other nonprofits to support the purchase of native tree saplings, event supplies, and transportation/logistics for food rescue.
e. Publicize with press releases and social media; invite local media (like Patch) for coverage to encourage long-term participation and education.
Both projects leverage current community needs and interests, align closely with Rotary’s mission, and invite broad partnership and volunteer opportunities across Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County.
1. Crisis Response and Public Safety Education Initiative (Community Health & Youth Focus)
Context:
Recent incidents in Lake County, including the tragic death of Darren Lucas in a fatal crash in Zion potentially linked to a TikTok livestream, a missing person search with suspected foul play, and severe incidents of reckless driving under drug influence, highlight urgent needs around safety, mental health resources, and youth education. These events point to a community in need of proactive outreach: support for families impacted by violence or tragedy, public dialogue to reduce threats, and targeted efforts to positively engage youth around safe social media and driving behaviors.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff's Office and local police departments
- Lake County Health Department (Mental Health Services)
- Local school districts (e.g., Gurnee School District 56, Waukegan Public Schools)
- Youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Anti-violence nonprofits
Next Steps:
- Organize a community forum or speaker series ("Safe Choices Lake County") in collaboration with police, mental health professionals, and families affected by violence or reckless driving, focusing on digital safety, mental wellness, and responsible behavior.
- Develop a peer-led social media campaign contest for local high schools on safe driving and positive digital citizenship.
- Set up a fundraiser (such as a walkathon or benefit dinner) to provide grants for victims' families or fund in-school mental health programs.
- Utilize Rotary volunteers to facilitate workshops and distribute educational materials in schools and community centers.
2. Addressing Food Insecurity through Local Partnerships (Environment & Community Health Focus)
Context:
Rising grocery prices in Illinois are straining family budgets in Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, increasing the risk of food insecurity—especially as the holidays approach. This challenge is especially acute for lower-income households and those affected by ongoing crises. Rotary can support immediate needs and build longer-term resilience by connecting local gardeners and donors with food pantries, while promoting sustainable practices.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan) and other area pantries
- Lake County Community Gardens Network
- University of Illinois Extension (Lake County)
- Local supermarkets and garden centers
Next Steps:
- Host a "Harvest for Hope" community garden drive: Encourage residents to donate surplus produce or funds, with drop-off points at community events or local businesses.
- Organize educational workshops on home gardening, food preservation, and healthy cooking—partnering with Extension educators and master gardeners.
- Launch a Rotary-sponsored matching grant or mini-grant for the creation or expansion of community gardening beds targeting schools and youth groups.
- Coordinate a holiday food drive in partnership with area pantries, leveraging Rotary's network and visibility for wider community participation.