1. Mental Health & Wellness Support: Community Soup Nights
Context:
Several feature stories focus on comforting, nutritious foods—like hearty soups—to combat seasonal blues and promote wellness. This points to a local awareness of winter mental health needs and community hunger. Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, has seen increased demand for accessible mental health support and nutritious food especially during the colder months, when isolation and food insecurity can spike. Rotary’s focus areas of “Disease Prevention and Treatment” and “Community Health” are directly aligned.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Lake County Health Department
- Local churches and community centers (e.g., Gurnee Community Church, Waukegan Park District)
- Local chefs/restaurants willing to donate soup or supplies
Next Steps:
- Convene a small planning team from the local Rotary club to contact the Lake County Health Department and food bank staff for insights on the best locations and scheduling.
- Recruit partners (churches, community centers) to provide space or additional support.
- Coordinate food donations, volunteers, and mental health resource materials (flyers for hotlines, local counseling).
- Publicize monthly or biweekly Community Soup Nights with a “hangout and healing” concept, featuring resource tables and social workers to address community wellness needs, especially for youth and seniors.
- Track attendance and follow up with ongoing needs surveys.
2. Youth Tech & STEM Empowerment: Data Center/Tech Career Expo
Context:
A recent editorial highlights major opportunities for local economic development through data centers and tech infrastructure, suggesting the region is preparing for tech expansion and new job growth. Waukegan and Gurnee serve a diverse student population, many of whom could benefit from exposure to high-paying technology careers but may lack access to information or resources. Aligns with Rotary’s “Basic Education and Literacy” and “Economic and Community Development” focus areas.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools (Warren Township, Waukegan High School)
- College of Lake County
- Illinois Science & Technology Coalition
- Local business associations
- Data center project leads or managers referenced in the editorial
Next Steps:
- Organize a committee with school and college staff, local tech companies, and Rotary volunteers.
- Contact editorial author or companies mentioned as experts to speak and provide hands-on demonstrations.
- Set a date and secure a venue such as a high school gym or the College of Lake County.
- Invite vendors, career counselors, and STEM educators for interactive booths and Q&A.
- Promote the event in English and Spanish; emphasize inclusive access for underrepresented students.
- Use proceeds from sponsorships or vendor fees for tech scholarships or club grants, and measure event impact via student surveys and follow-up workshops.
1. Winter Emergency Relief Program for Vulnerable Residents (Community Health & Disaster Response)
Context:
Recent news highlights heavy snowstorms and persistent winter weather (“As Chicago digs out from a snowy weekend, another winter punch — with more snow — is inbound,” “up to 10 inches of snow,” “more than 1,000 flights canceled”). Community leaders like Waukegan’s Mayor Sam Cunningham emphasized maintaining community spirit by proceeding with traditional holiday events despite hazardous conditions. Lake County’s harsh winter is a recurrent challenge, particularly for seniors, low-income families, immigrants (including those affected by recent ICE detentions), and the homeless, who may lack adequate resources for warmth, mobility, or food during emergencies.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department - PADS Lake County (homeless services) - Local food pantries (e.g., COOL Ministries) - Waukegan Township - Churches and community centers - Local immigrant advocacy organizations
Next Steps: - Convene a meeting with local service providers to identify urgent needs (blankets, food, heating assistance, emergency transportation). - Launch a fundraising drive for emergency winter kits (coats, hats, gloves, food) with visible Rotary branding. - Organize a volunteer sign-up for snow shoveling, wellness checks, and supply distribution, prioritizing isolated seniors, disabled residents, and affected immigrant families. - Seek donations from local businesses, especially those honored by Sen. Adriane Johnson’s "30 Wonders of 30th District." - Develop an awareness campaign (social media, local press, flyers in English and Spanish) on available services and how to request Rotary assistance.
2. Youth Leadership & Integration Initiative for Immigrant Students (Education & Youth Development)
Context:
News on nearly 1,900 immigrants detained in Operation Midway Blitz, “most had no criminal record," and local coverage of support for immigrant communities ('Former Waukegan priest walks the walk for immigrants') speak to ongoing needs among immigrant youth and their families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County. With schools impacted by community anxieties and a growing population of first-generation and recently resettled students, there is an urgent need for leadership development, English language support, and community integration programs targeting teens and children.
Potential Partners: - Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 - Mano a Mano Family Resource Center - Catholic Charities’ immigration and youth programs - Local high schools’ National Honor Society and language clubs - North Shore College (for student volunteers)
Next Steps: - Meet with school and nonprofit partners to identify the most pressing gaps (after-school tutoring, mentoring, cultural exchange, college readiness). - Develop a Rotary-led Youth Leadership Academy or weekend enrichment club, focusing on empowerment, English conversation, and civic engagement. - Recruit bilingual volunteers/mentors from the community and local colleges. - Apply for a Rotary district grant to support program costs, materials, or scholarships for youth project leaders. - Host a “community welcome” event connecting immigrant families with available services and introducing them to Rotary’s values and opportunities.
Both projects directly address pressing local needs, promote Rotary’s mission of service, and can be scaled or adapted as needs evolve this winter and beyond.
1. Youth Literacy & Academic Achievement Initiative: Rotary Spelling Bee Support Program
Context:
Lake County’s 12-year-old Visharad Sathish has just won the regional spelling bee after an intense, 45-round competition involving 73 schools, and is now advancing to the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This high-profile event reflects both a culture of academic excellence and the need for resources, encouragement, and recognition for gifted Lake County youth. Many local schools—especially in underserved areas like Waukegan—struggle to provide enrichment activities and travel assistance for talented students. Rotary International prioritizes education and literacy.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local school districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee School District 56)
- Scripps National Spelling Bee local coordinators
- Local businesses interested in education
- Parent-Teacher Associations
Next Steps:
- Connect with the Lake County Regional Office of Education and school spelling bee organizers to identify funding/resource gaps and recognition needs for top students.
- Create a Rotary-sponsored annual fund offering travel scholarships, spelling bee prep materials, and/or awards for top students from Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding areas.
- Organize community spelling nights or celebrate local finalists at a Rotary event to inspire youth participation.
- Recruit Rotarians as spelling bee volunteer judges or mentors.
- Launch a fundraising campaign in partnership with local businesses for sustained support.
2. Environmental Engagement & Community Beautification: Winter Tree Planting and Holiday Greens Recycling Event
Context:
Waukegan and Gurnee just held public outdoor holiday celebrations and tree lightings despite significant snowfall. Winter community events, heavy snow, and the upcoming post-holiday disposal of Christmas trees present both an environmental opportunity and a need. Rotary’s environment area of focus supports urban greening, proper recycling, and ecological restoration. Lake County residents and local governments often need help with sustainability and beautification programs that foster community pride and reduce waste.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District, Gurnee Park District, and local municipal offices
- Solid waste/recycling services (SWALCO: Solid Waste Agency of Lake County)
- Local tree nurseries and landscape businesses
- Schools and scout groups for youth involvement
- Environmental advocates (e.g., Citizens’ Greener Evanston extension)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with Parks Departments and SWALCO to plan a Rotary-sponsored Christmas tree collection and recycling event in January, turning old trees into mulch for local parks or erosion control.
- Simultaneously, plan a winter or early spring tree/shrub planting day using proceeds from the recycled greens, engaging families, students, and community groups.
- Host educational booths about recycling and the benefits of urban trees at local holiday events.
- Seek sponsorships from nurseries/landscapers to match every recycled tree with a new sapling planted.
- Publicize Rotary’s role in local media to raise environmental awareness and inspire ongoing stewardship.
1. Food Security Initiative: Community Food Pantry Drive & Support
Context:
Recent reporting has indicated a significant spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, including those serving Grayslake, Gurnee, Waukegan, and throughout Lake County. Rising food insecurity is a pressing community concern, particularly amid inflation and other compounding factors that have left more families seeking assistance.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community health, Economic and community development
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Avon Township Food Pantry (Grayslake)
- Local faith organizations (e.g., Christ Church, Gurnee; Joy! Lutheran Church, Gurnee)
- Lake County Community Foundation
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with representatives from area food pantries and Northern Illinois Food Bank to assess greatest needs (e.g., fresh produce, protein items, direct financial support).
- Organize a “Rotary Community Food Drive” engaging local businesses, schools, and faith organizations as collection points.
- Seek sponsorships or matching gifts from area grocery stores and service clubs.
- Coordinate volunteer days where Rotary members help sort and distribute food or run a pop-up pantry.
- Amplify impact by collecting personal hygiene products alongside food items, as these are often in short supply.
- Publicize results and impact through social media, local news channels, and at Rotary Club events to encourage future involvement.
2. Winter Safety & Emergency Preparedness Kits Distribution
Context:
Lake County has experienced substantial snowfalls, with towns reporting up to a foot of snow in a single event and more severe winter weather expected. Sudden cold snaps, hazardous travel conditions, and power outages disproportionately affect vulnerable residents, including the elderly, low-income families, and the homeless.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community health, Disease prevention, and Disaster response
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- PADS Lake County (homeless support services)
- Salvation Army (Waukegan Corps)
- Local fire and police departments
- Lake County Emergency Management Agency
- Walgreens/CVS for donation or discount of supplies
Next Steps:
- Connect with Lake County Health Department and Emergency Management to identify neighborhoods or populations most at risk (e.g., seniors living alone, families without reliable heat).
- Mobilize Rotary volunteers to assemble “Winter Safety Kits” containing items such as blankets, hand warmers, basic first aid supplies, water, non-perishable snacks, hats/gloves, and weather safety information (including Metra train safety, following the recent fatality).
- Partner with local pharmacies or retailers to secure supplies at discounted rates.
- Schedule and publicize distribution events at community centers, schools, and faith organizations; work with Meals on Wheels or senior services for direct deliveries.
- Offer an educational component: share safety tips for severe weather, power outages, and basic first aid, potentially in multiple languages.
- Measure success by the number of kits distributed and feedback from recipients and partner agencies.
Certainly! Based on current activities and ongoing community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary project ideas aligned with Rotary priorities and reflective of recent happenings and area needs:
1. Holiday Card Drive & Crafting Events for Service Members and Local Seniors
Context:
Among the Grayslake events listed is "Drafts & Crafts: Holiday Cards for the Troops" at Beer Bazaar, showcasing community interest in supporting both military personnel and creative engagement. Many local seniors—such as those attending programs at the Libertyville Senior Center—face social isolation during the winter holidays and would benefit from cheery, hand-crafted messages. With large community gatherings upcoming at places like College of Lake County and Grace Anglican Fellowship, there's opportunity for wider engagement.
Rotary Focus Area: Community connections (Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution, Community Development) and Supporting Our Seniors
Potential Partners:
- Beer Bazaar and Jennifer Karlov (local artist and event leader)
- Libertyville Senior Center (Senior outreach)
- Local student groups at College of Lake County
- Grace Anglican Fellowship and other area faith organizations
Next Steps:
- Contact Jennifer Karlov and Beer Bazaar to collaborate/expand their Holiday Cards initiative to include local seniors as well as troops.
- Seek permission from Libertyville Senior Center and other area centers to deliver cards and, if agreeable, hold an on-site “Make a Card, Make a Friend” workshop.
- Partner with College of Lake County student volunteers to help craft cards and deliver to both the troops (via existing military channels) and local seniors.
- Publicize via Patch, Rotary newsletters, and at festive events, encouraging community members to join crafting sessions and participate in delivery.
2. “Warm for the Winter” Drive: Youth-Focused Winter Clothing and Supply Distribution
Context:
Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, faces significant needs among children and youth during the cold months. With increased gatherings at places like the College of Lake County campus (for events like the Ruth Page Nutcracker ballet), the Rotary club can mobilize the community to bring urgently needed winter clothing (coats, gloves, hats, scarves, boots) for local children in need, in addition to basic hygiene kits.
Rotary Focus Area: Supporting Education and Growing Local Economies (Basic Needs) & Supporting Youth
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (Grayslake campus) for collection sites and volunteers
- Local schools and PTAs (e.g., Waukegan Public Schools, Woodland School District in Gurnee)
- PADS Lake County and COOL Ministries (existing agencies serving families and homeless youth)
- Local businesses and event-sites (Beer Bazaar, Hawthorn Center, etc.) as drop-off locations
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with College of Lake County and other event venues to set up “Warm for the Winter” collection bins at December events.
- Partner with area schools and youth service agencies to identify the greatest needs and handle logistics for distribution before holidays/winter break.
- Tap Rotary volunteers for sorting and distribution; seek in-kind donations from business partners.
- Publicize throughout community with flyers, social media, and promotional mentions at community events (e.g., the Nutcracker).
- Share stories and photos post-distribution—showcasing Rotary engagement and impact—to help recruit new partners for future projects.
Both service opportunities build on current community participation and seasonal need, while directly supporting Rotary values: connecting communities, supporting youth and seniors, and fostering generosity.
Based on recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, the following Rotary service or fundraising opportunities are recommended:
1. Community Mental Health Support and Awareness Initiative
Context:
The Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board is actively accepting grant applications to fund nonprofit partners providing mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services. Mental health has been identified as a significant community need, heightened by ongoing social and economic challenges. Rotary International’s focus area of disease prevention and treatment encompasses mental health, making this a highly relevant initiative.
Potential Partners:
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- Local mental health service providers (e.g., Lake County Health Department Behavioral Health Services)
- Local schools and youth organizations
- Fellow service clubs or faith-based organizations (e.g., Society of St. Vincent de Paul)
Next Steps:
- Connect with the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board to explore partnership or support opportunities.
- Organize a Rotary-hosted community awareness event or panel discussion addressing mental health stigma and resources.
- Identify gaps in local mental health services and, with partners, design a service project or apply for modest funding (possibly using a district or local grant).
- Consider launching a fundraising campaign dedicated to supporting counseling services, school-based interventions, or crisis hotlines, possibly in collaboration with Giving Tuesday initiatives.
2. Holiday Food Security and Meals Program
Context:
There is recent community action exemplified by BHHS Chicago’s Libertyville Office, which donated 130 Thanksgiving meals to Lake County families in need. With the cost of living rising and winter hardship setting in, food insecurity is an ongoing concern in Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee. Rotary’s focus on community economic development and saving mothers and children aligns well with initiatives that address hunger and nutrition.
Potential Partners:
- Local food pantries (e.g., Northern Illinois Food Bank, COOL Ministries in Waukegan)
- Other civic organizations that run food drives (schools, faith communities, business sponsors like Waukegan Tire)
- Social service agencies and shelters, such as the Society of St. Vincent de Paul
- Local media outlets for promoting donation drives
Next Steps:
- Meet with key local food pantries and previous donors (BHHS Chicago, local tire/service centers) to assess ongoing needs and opportunities to expand meal distribution, especially for winter holidays.
- Plan and organize a Rotary-run winter food drive and/or fundraising event (online or in-person) to support meal delivery for families, children, and seniors through the winter.
- Recruit volunteers from within the Rotary club and partner organizations for sorting, packaging, and delivering food boxes.
- Coordinate with area schools to identify students/families at risk for food insecurity and ensure they receive needed support.
These two initiatives directly address urgent needs in Lake County and can be amplified through Rotary engagement, leveraging existing momentum and community partnerships.
1. Community Health & Safety: Winter Emergency Relief Project
Context:
Recent heavy snowfall (12 inches in Lake County), upcoming more snow and extreme cold, and news of families in need (e.g., BHHS Chicago’s Libertyville Office donating 130 Thanksgiving meals). The area’s vulnerable residents—seniors, low-income families, those without stable housing—are at heightened risk during winter storms due to ice, power outages, and inadequate heating.
Potential Partners:
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul Chicago (recent Giving Tuesday initiative)
- Local food pantries (Libertyville, Waukegan, Gurnee)
- Township and city emergency preparedness/emergency response teams
- BHHS Chicago Libertyville office (recent meal donations show civic engagement)
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with local service organizations and township officials to coordinate resources and identify at-risk individuals (seniors, unhoused, disabled).
- Organize a fundraising campaign for emergency kits (warm clothing, blankets, shelf-stable food, hand warmers), fuel assistance, and transportation.
- Recruit volunteers for wellness checks and snow removal for vulnerable neighbors.
- Promote donation drives via local media and social media.
- Schedule a community event or “Day of Service” in January to assemble and distribute kits and provide winter safety education.
2. Education & Youth: Youth Mental Health Peer Support and Outreach
Context:
A Libertyville boy, 14, was recently reported missing after a school event—fortunately, he was reunited with family. This incident highlights concerns around youth wellbeing, isolation, and the need for mental health resources and education. ZCenter also received grants for community education and prevention (likely linked to youth safety and wellness).
Potential Partners:
- ZCenter (Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center; experienced in school education/prevention)
- Local school districts (including Libertyville High School, Gurnee, Waukegan)
- Community mental health providers (Lake County Health Dept.)
- Youth organizations and faith groups
Next Steps:
- Reach out to ZCenter and area school counselors to identify current gaps in youth mental health support.
- Develop fundraising or service projects to sponsor peer support training for students or ‘Safe Space’ clubs in middle/high schools.
- Secure funds for speakers, workshops, or resource materials focused on emotional wellbeing, personal safety, and resilience.
- Plan a youth wellness event (e.g., panel talk, mental health fair) with local partners in spring 2025.
- Collaborate with media and community leaders to raise awareness and reduce stigma around youth mental health.
Both project ideas align closely with Rotary’s pillars of community health, youth and education, and partnership with local organizations to maximize impact.