1. Rotary Youth Mental Health Awareness and Resilience Workshops
Context:
Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, has seen an increased need for youth mental health support in the wake of ongoing social and political tensions, as evidenced by recent election-related controversies and charged local politics (“9th District candidate’s gift bag stunt sets a disturbing tone,” Daily Herald, Nov 21, 2025). The local climate may contribute to stress, polarization, and uncertainty among young people. In addition, disruptions from these environments often make young people vulnerable to anxiety and isolation.
Potential Partners: - Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Gurnee School District 56) - Lake County Health Department - Youth mental health organizations (e.g., NAMI Lake County) - Local libraries and teen centers
Next Steps: - Contact local school districts and libraries to gauge interest and needs for mental health programming. - Reach out to NAMI Lake County and the Health Department to identify possible facilitators. - Secure venues and co-sponsor a series of after-school or weekend resilience-building workshops covering stress management, coping skills, and conflict resolution. - Publicize through partner channels, Rotary e-newsletters, and social media.
2. Rotary Environmental Service: “Adopt-a-Park” Litter Clean-Up and Restoration Initiative
Context:
With increased community activity and divisive public events in the area, public spaces in Gurnee, Waukegan, and throughout Lake County require positive engagement and stewardship. Environmental issues—including litter, neglected park spaces, and sustainability—impact community health and civic pride but may go overlooked amid headline-grabbing political news. Providing opportunities for hands-on service fosters a sense of unity and improves the local environment—key Rotary focus areas.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Forest Preserves District - Village of Gurnee Parks Department - Waukegan Park District - Local high school service clubs (e.g., Interact), scout troops, and neighborhood associations
Next Steps: - Contact the Lake County Forest Preserves, Gurnee, and Waukegan park officials to identify priority sites needing care. - Promote monthly or quarterly volunteer clean-up and native planting events, with Rotary providing supplies, refreshments, and educational handouts. - Engage local youth groups and Interact clubs to increase impact and teach environmental stewardship. - Share project results publicly to encourage ongoing participation and awareness.
Each project ties into Rotary’s pillars—youth development, community health, and environmental protection—and leverages local needs in response to current events.
Certainly! Based on recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary project recommendations that address current events and community needs, aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Health Initiative: Support for Vista Medical Center and Local Health Access
Context:
Vista Medical Center in Waukegan is facing escalating financial and operational troubles, including unpaid taxes and uncertainty about its ability to continue serving local residents. This instability threatens access to essential health care for many underserved community members.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department - Local non-profits focused on health access (e.g., Lake County Community Foundation) - Faith-based organizations and community clinics (e.g., Rosalind Franklin University Health Clinics)
Next Steps: - Convene an emergency Rotary-hosted community forum or task force to discuss ways to support access to care in the wake of Vista’s troubles. - Fundraise for or coordinate a Rotary medical assistance grant to support local free clinics, mobile health services, or emergency prescription funds. - Organize volunteer support for health education events—aligning with annual initiatives such as the “Smokeout” to promote healthier lifestyles and cessation support services.
2. Pedestrian Safety & Infrastructure Improvement Program
Context:
A recent rise in pedestrian fatalities in Lake County, including the latest in Waukegan, underscores a community need for improved pedestrian infrastructure and safety education. The loss of life illuminates dangerous crossings and lack of awareness.
Potential Partners: - Local law enforcement agencies (Waukegan, Gurnee Police) - Lake County Division of Transportation - Local schools (Districts 60 and 187) - Safe Kids Worldwide, local chapters
Next Steps: - Launch a “Pedestrian Safety Awareness” campaign, with school and neighborhood education components and distribution of reflective gear or lights. - Seek grants and community fundraising for the installation of flashing crosswalk signs, painted crossings, or mobile speed monitors at identified high-risk intersections. - Work with village/city engineers and local officials on walkability assessments to advocate for longer-term infrastructural changes and safer routes to schools.
Both projects respond directly to current, headline issues in the region and provide tangible ways for Rotary to bring together resources, community leadership, and impactful service.
1. Rotary Literacy and Academic Excellence Initiative – "Words for the Future":
Context:
The Lake County Regional Spelling Bee recently highlighted the academic dedication of local students, such as Visharad Sathish, who advanced to the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. With 73 schools participating, this event showcases the area's strong commitment to literacy and academic achievement. Maintaining and expanding such opportunities aligns with Rotary’s areas of focus on basic education and literacy.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (Superintendent Michael Karner)
- John Lewis Middle School (Ashley Whitaker, dual language instructional specialist)
- Local PTAs and library systems (e.g., Waukegan, Gurnee, Grayslake libraries)
- Area businesses for sponsorships
Next Steps:
- Connect with Michael Karner and Ashley Whitaker to discuss needs, such as funding travel for spelling bee winners, study resources, or expanding literacy competitions to more students.
- Organize an annual Rotary fundraiser—like a "Words for the Future" Spelling Bee for adults or community leaders—to raise funds for literacy prizes, books, and sponsorships for national qualifiers.
- Launch a mentorship program pairing Rotarians with students from under-resourced schools, offering tutoring in reading, vocabulary, and public speaking.
- Collaborate with libraries for year-round spelling and reading clubs, culminating in an expanded Lake County Regional Spelling Bee next season.
2. Rotary Healthy Schools Project – Addressing Gaps in Community Health Services:
Context:
Recent coverage about Vista Medical’s unpaid taxes and the uncertain future of healthcare services in Waukegan and Lake County signals potential challenges ahead for local families. School communities are often affected first by gaps in healthcare access, particularly with preventive screenings and health education.
Potential Partners:
- Vista Health System (if restructuring continues, or to engage new healthcare partners)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local school districts (Waukegan D60, Gurnee, Grayslake districts)
- Community organizations focused on health
Next Steps:
- Meet with school administrators—such as Courtney Curry (Assistant Regional Superintendent)—to identify the most immediate student health needs (vision screenings, health education, vaccinations, mental health resources).
- Partner with the Lake County Health Department to organize school-based health fairs offering free screenings and health information, targeting underserved schools.
- Seek grants or donations for in-school health resources (first aid kits, menstrual health supplies, hygiene products).
- Organize Rotarian volunteer days at schools, distributing health kits and providing age-appropriate health literacy workshops.
- Evaluate and adjust project scope based on feedback from school nurses and families, ensuring sustainability and impact as Vista Medical’s situation evolves.
1. Community Food Drive & Health Fair Collaboration
Context: Recent local news reports indicate that Chicago-area food pantries, including those in Lake County communities such as Gurnee and Waukegan, are experiencing a spike in visits over the past year. Food insecurity remains a pressing issue, especially during the holiday season and as economic pressures affect lower-income families. This aligns with Rotary's focus areas of "Community Health" and "Fighting Disease."
Potential Partners: - Northern Illinois Food Bank (serves Lake County) - Local food pantries in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake (e.g., COOL Ministries Pantry, Avon Township Food Pantry) - Major grocery store chains (Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s) for donation bins and sponsorships - Local health departments or Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) for pop-up health screening stations
Next Steps: - Convene a planning committee from the Rotary clubs of Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake. - Reach out to food pantry directors (e.g., COOL Ministries: Alan Spector, Executive Director) and Northern Illinois Food Bank. - Identify high-traffic locations for food collection bins and set dates for a central community food drive event. - Plan to add a health resource table offering flu vaccines, blood pressure screenings, and Covid-19 information in partnership with Lake County Health Department. - Publicize the event via local media (Patch, social media, school newsletters) and seek both monetary and non-perishable food donations. - Arrange for club members and community volunteers to assist in sorting, packaging, and distribution.
2. Youth STEM Education and Career Pathways Project
Context: A recent news highlight mentioned a significant donation supporting collision education in Grayslake. This points to both community interest and current gaps in youth workforce development and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education in the region. With changing economic needs, preparing youth for technical careers is vital, aligning with Rotary's Education and Youth focus.
Potential Partners: - College of Lake County (CLC), which offers career and technical education - Local high schools (Warren Township High, Waukegan High, Grayslake Central and North) - Local businesses involved in automotive, manufacturing, and technology (e.g., nearby auto shops, Abbott Labs, Medline) - Area nonprofits focused on youth development (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps: - Connect with CLC’s Workforce and Professional Development Institute and career & tech-ed program managers. - Organize a Rotary-sponsored “Explore Careers” expo, including hands-on STEM workshops, informational booths, and local business partners offering mentorship or internship opportunities. - Secure sponsorships for scholarships or toolkits for students interested in pursuing technical or STEM education. - Recruit Rotarians and partners to serve as volunteer mentors for monthly “career talk” sessions at local schools. - Promote the event and ongoing programming to families through school newsletters and local media. - Measure impact through follow-up surveys with students and educators to strengthen and expand the project in future years.
Based on recent community events and activities in the Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL area, here are two Rotary service or fundraising project ideas that align with Rotary's areas of focus and respond to current needs:
1. Community Health Initiative: Senior Services and Wellness Outreach
Context:
The upcoming "Mobile DMV" at Libertyville Senior Center (December 12) highlights ongoing efforts to bring services to older adults, a group that often faces barriers to accessing health care, legal, and financial resources. With an aging population in Lake County, supporting senior health, wellness, and accessibility is a critical need.
Potential Partners:
- Libertyville Senior Center
- Lake County Health Department
- Local pharmacies or healthcare providers (e.g., Advocate Aurora, Northwestern Medicine)
- Local high school or college volunteers (e.g., College of Lake County students)
Next Steps:
- Connect with Libertyville Senior Center to identify service gaps (e.g., transportation, health screenings, social isolation).
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored “Senior Wellness Fair” coordinated with the next Mobile DMV, featuring free health checks (flu shots, vision, blood pressure), legal/financial information, tech help for using telehealth, and social activities.
- Recruit volunteer Rotarians and student nurses/social workers for staffing.
- Seek donations or sponsorships from local businesses for refreshments and printed materials.
- Promote through existing community event calendars and social media for wide reach.
2. Education & Youth Opportunity: Promoting Access to Scholarships
Context:
The “Kim Muno Scholarship Goal” event at Libertyville High School signals active engagement around education access and the importance of scholarship funding in the community. Rising college costs remain a challenge for Lake County families, particularly in Waukegan and surrounding areas.
Potential Partners:
- Open Doors to Education (organizer of the Kim Muno Scholarship event)
- Local high schools (Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School)
- College of Lake County
- Local businesses interested in youth development
- Parent-teacher associations
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Open Doors to Education to explore collaboration on scholarship funding events (e.g., 5K run, silent auction at community gatherings).
- Organize a “College & Career Night” hosted by Rotary, with speakers on scholarships, financial aid, and career pathways, and information booths from local colleges and training programs.
- Establish a Rotary-funded scholarship targeting students in need from Waukegan, Gurnee, and Grayslake, leveraging both club funds and outside donations.
- Publicize involvement via local news outlets (Patch, Sun-Times), school newsletters, and social media.
These initiatives directly address current community events and needs, align with Rotary’s areas of focus, and provide clear partnership and action opportunities for maximum community impact.
1. Rotary Food Security Initiative: Holiday Meals & Grocery Support
Context:
With IL grocery prices on the rise and reports highlighting increased costs heading into the holidays ("IL Grocery Prices Have Increased: What That Means For The Holidays"), many families in Lake County—including Gurnee and Waukegan—are expected to feel financial pressure and food insecurity. Thanksgiving and winter holidays put additional strain on low-income households, making access to nutritious meals critical.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Local grocery stores (Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s, Aldi)
- Lake County government agencies (Lake County Health Department)
- School districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake Forest
- Churches and civic organizations
Next Steps:
- Contact local food pantries and the Northern Illinois Food Bank to assess immediate needs and collaborate on a drive focused on healthy, shelf-stable holiday staples.
- Launch a community fundraising campaign (in-person at Rotary meetings, and virtually via platforms like GoFundMe) to purchase grocery cards or bulk goods.
- Set up collection and distribution points at Rotary-supported community centers and partner organizations in Gurnee and Waukegan.
- Coordinate with schools and local agencies to identify and discreetly assist families most in need.
- Organize a volunteer day for Thanksgiving or December, packing and distributing food boxes and hot meals.
2. Youth Empowerment Through Arts & Education: Supporting Local Talent
Context:
Rebecca Hutchinson, a Lake Forest resident and youth performer, was recently featured in “Annie” at Music Theater Works, highlighting the value of artistic opportunities for local youths (“Lake Forest Resident Featured in 'Annie'...”). Additionally, coverage of Woodlands Academy’s student athletes exemplifies youth achievement deserving of community support. Access to arts and enrichment activities can be limited for many young people in Waukegan and Gurnee due to socioeconomic factors.
Potential Partners:
- Music Theater Works (Evanston) and regional theaters
- Local school districts and after-school programs
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County
- Woodlands Academy, local high schools, and art centers
- Community foundations sponsoring arts and youth programming
Next Steps:
- Develop a Rotary Arts Enrichment Scholarship Fund to subsidize participation in theater, music, and arts camps/classes for underprivileged youth in Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Partner with Music Theater Works and local schools to offer free or discounted group tickets to performances and organize behind-the-scenes workshops with professional artists.
- Identify student leaders and ambassadors (e.g., Rebecca Hutchinson) to serve as mentors or spokespeople, inspiring younger students across the county.
- Coordinate a fundraising gala or showcase event, inviting youth performers and partnering organizations, with proceeds funding ongoing scholarships and arts outreach.
- Collaborate with youth programs to ensure outreach to families lacking resources or awareness of available opportunities.
1. Community Health Project: Support for Naval Station Great Lakes Personnel and Families
Context:
Recent reports indicate a concerning spike in deaths associated with the Naval Station Great Lakes and its housing (10 deaths reported in 2025, per Lake County Coroner’s Office). This rise may point to mental health struggles, stress, isolation, or gaps in access to health services for military personnel and their families.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Coroner’s Office
- Family Services at Naval Station Great Lakes
- Rosalind Franklin University (psychology/social work departments)
- Lake County Health Department
- Blue Star Mothers of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Convene a meeting with Naval Station’s Family Support and chapel staff to better assess needs (grief resources, counseling, wellness education, support for new arrivals).
- Organize a "Wellness Expo" on base or nearby: provide mental health screenings, connect families with local service organizations, and offer stress management workshops.
- Recruit Rotary members and local mental health professionals to volunteer.
- Launch a targeted fundraising campaign to underwrite ongoing counseling services for base residents or to fund emergency needs for affected families.
2. Food Security & Holiday Meal Drive for Low-Income Lake County Residents
Context:
With grocery prices on the rise throughout Illinois, many families in Lake County communities like Waukegan and Gurnee are facing greater food insecurity, especially around the holidays. This challenge is particularly acute for residents who may not qualify for state or federal benefits or who struggle to access area food banks.
Potential Partners:
- Cool Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Township offices (Gurnee, Waukegan)
- Local schools (District 60, District 50)
- Corporate donors (Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with food banks and township social workers to identify neighborhoods or client lists with the greatest need.
- Launch a Rotary-run holiday meal distribution event in December, focusing on nutritious, culturally appropriate foods.
- Organize donation drives at local grocery stores (engage employees and customers); consider partnerships for matching gifts or “round up at checkout” campaigns.
- Enlist Rotary youth programs (Interact, Rotaract) to participate in packing and distribution, connecting the project to youth leadership and service education.
- Share results with community partners and evaluate for possible future quarterly food distribution events.
Both opportunities directly address urgent local needs and are squarely within Rotary’s focus areas of supporting community health, fighting hunger, and engaging youth and partners in positive change.