Based on your request and a review of local news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL as of December 8, 2025, here are two recommended Rotary projects:
1. Water Conservation and Education Initiative
Aligns with Rotary’s Focus Area: Environment, Community Health, Education
Context:
A recent letter to the editor highlighted growing concerns that the Midwest’s future depends on careful water stewardship, noting that water is becoming a “most valuable resource.” With new data centers and regional growth, there’s heightened community awareness about water use, and residents are eager for education and proactive solutions.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Forest Preserves District (environmental education arm) - Local water utilities (e.g., North Shore Water Reclamation District) - Local school districts (Gurnee and Waukegan) - Sierra Club Lake County, Illinois
Next Steps: 1. Form a Committee: Assemble interested Rotarians and invite representatives from water utilities, schools, and environmental groups. 2. Host a Community Forum: Organize a public event with experts discussing local water challenges, conservation strategies, and the region’s water future. 3. Launch Youth Workshops: Collaborate with schools to run interactive water conservation workshops for students, integrating activities such as water testing and rain barrel installations. 4. Develop Materials: Create and distribute printed and digital guides about water-saving practices for local households. 5. Evaluate Impact: Track participant feedback and measure changes in water usage awareness in follow-up surveys.
2. Teen Mental Health Resource Drive & Awareness Campaign
Aligns with Rotary’s Focus Area: Community Health, Youth
Context:
Recent job ads and literature highlight increased stress and the need for mental health support, including employee assistance and virtual mental health programs. Post-pandemic, both Waukegan and Gurnee schools and families have voiced need for more mental health resources for youth, particularly for teens facing academic and social pressure.
Potential Partners: - Warren Township Youth & Family Services - Lake County Health Department/Behavioral Health Services - Gurnee and Waukegan High School counseling departments - NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Next Steps: 1. Connect with Local Schools: Meet with school counselors to assess current needs and gaps in mental health resources for students. 2. Organize a Resource Drive: Collect and donate supplies for “calming kits” (journals, stress toys, resource guides) for school counseling offices and afterschool centers. 3. Mental Health Fair: Plan a community event featuring expert speakers, local therapy dogs, wellness booths, and resource handouts for parents and students. 4. Awareness Campaign: Use social media and local newsletters to destigmatize teen mental health and promote available services. 5. Monitor Outcomes: Survey participants and educators to gauge the effectiveness of outreach efforts and adjust the program as needed.
These initiatives address urgent, locally-identified needs, build on current community concerns, and leverage strategic partnerships to maximize Rotary’s impact in Lake County.
1. Supporting Teacher Recruitment and Retention in Waukegan and North Chicago
Rotary Focus Area: Education & Literacy
Context:
A recent Lake County News-Sun article highlights a pilot program helping Waukegan and North Chicago address critical teacher shortages. Eighteen District 60 paraprofessionals are close to completing a program (in partnership with the Illinois State Board of Education) to become certified teachers. North Chicago and Waukegan continue facing a shortage of qualified educators, directly impacting student learning.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Schools (District 60)
- North Chicago School District 187
- The Illinois State Board of Education
- Local colleges and universities (e.g., College of Lake County)
- United Way of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Arrange a meeting with District 60 and District 187 administrators to better understand current needs that Rotarians could address—such as scholarships, stipends, school supplies, or mentorship programs for teacher candidates.
- Develop a fundraising event such as a “Future Teachers Gala” or local walk-a-thon, with proceeds funding scholarships for paraprofessionals in these training pathways.
- Launch a mentorship network connecting seasoned Rotary professionals with paraprofessionals, providing career guidance and community connections.
- Publicize outcomes and expand partnerships to tackle educator shortages in other Lake County districts.
2. Community Inclusion and Accessibility Support for Keshet’s New Facility
Rotary Focus Area: Community Health & Inclusion
Context:
Keshet, a nonprofit serving the disabled, just began work on a new Lake County home to expand its services and activities for people with disabilities. Their needs may include capital improvements, programming resources, or helping Keshet clients integrate more fully into the local community. Keshet’s stated goal is ensuring "everyone’s part of our community," which matches Rotary’s commitment to inclusion.
Potential Partners:
- Keshet (www.keshet.org)
- Local disability advocacy organizations
- Lake County Forest Preserves (for accessible outdoor activities)
- Local businesses and parks and recreation departments
Next Steps:
- Meet with Keshet leadership to identify top needs for the new facility (such as funding for accessible equipment, tech resources, or community programs).
- Plan a fundraiser (e.g., Rotary “Day of Abilities” festival or dinner) to raise funds for Keshet’s priorities.
- Organize volunteer days for Rotarians to participate in accessible facility upgrades or inclusive community events.
- Explore creation of an ongoing “buddy” system matching Rotarians and families to offer support, inclusion, and social opportunities for Keshet participants.
Go beyond one-time help by developing long-term partnerships that promote awareness and inclusion throughout Lake County.
Rotary Area of Focus: Basic Education & Literacy; Youth
Context:
The Lake County Regional Spelling Bee recently saw outstanding participation from students across 73 local schools, culminating in 12-year-old Visharad Sathish's win and progression to the National Bee. The event reflects both youth enthusiasm and the value placed on academic excellence in the region. Enhancing access to literacy materials and encouraging broader student participation can have a lasting impact on educational engagement and self-confidence.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (Superintendent Michael Karner, Assistant Superintendent Courtney Curry)
- Local middle and elementary schools (e.g., John Lewis Middle School, Lake Forest Country Day School, Matthews Middle School)
- Public libraries (Gurnee, Waukegan, Grayslake)
- Local bookstores and educational resource companies
Next Steps:
- Book & Dictionary Drive: Launch a campaign at schools, libraries, and businesses to donate age-appropriate dictionaries, vocabulary workbooks, and engaging books, especially targeting underserved schools. Reach out to literacy sponsors and publishers for possible discounts or gifts-in-kind.
- Spelling/Mind Games Night Fundraiser: Host an all-ages family spelling bee or trivia/games night, inviting top spelling bee achievers for exhibition rounds and encouraging teams from the community. Proceeds could fund new reading corners at local schools, purchase advanced spelling/learning materials, or cover registration costs for students in regional bees.
- Reach out to Michael Karner and school principals to coordinate logistics, promotion, and participant recruitment.
- Engage youth directly: Invite local spelling bee participants including Visharad Sathish and Ian Leong as student ambassadors or peer mentors at events.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health; Disease Prevention and Treatment; Youth
Context:
A marathon spelling competition—like the 40+ round Lake County Bee—highlights both intellectual stamina and the stress students may experience under academic pressure. With high expectations and extended preparation times, many young people benefit from support in developing healthy coping mechanisms, managing anxiety, and building self-confidence. Community feedback from parents and educators often underscores a growing need for proactive student wellness resources.
Potential Partners:
- School counselors and psychologists in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County
- Regional non-profits focusing on youth mental health (e.g., NAMI Lake County, Zacharias Center)
- Parental organizations and PTAs
- Student government or leadership groups
Next Steps:
- Curriculum Planning: In collaboration with school counselors, design a series of age-appropriate, afterschool resilience and stress-management workshops. Tailor these to academic competitions but open them for all youth.
- Pilot Workshops: Launch pilot sessions at schools such as Lake Forest Country Day School, John Lewis Middle School, and Matthews Middle School. Workshops might include group discussions on managing performance anxiety, mindfulness exercises, and open Q&A sessions with past spelling bee participants (e.g., Visharad Sathish and Sahasrad Sathish could be invited to share experiences).
- Awareness Campaign: Run a joint awareness campaign with local parent-teacher groups and school administration about recognizing stress signs and promoting student wellness resources.
- Sponsorship/Fundraising: Hold an inaugural event or public mental health forum for families with presentation and wellness fair. Proceeds can help fund ongoing workshops and resource materials distributed across Lake County schools.
Both of these projects align with Rotary’s commitment to supporting youth development, literacy, and health, while leveraging strong local interest in intellectual achievement and student well-being.
1. Support for Local Food Pantries Experiencing Visitor Spikes
Context:
Recent news highlights that "Chicago-Area Food Pantries See Spike In Visits Over Past Year," indicating a rising need for food assistance among Lake County residents. While not exclusive to Gurnee or Waukegan, this county-wide trend is urgent as the cost of living rises and more families face food insecurity, especially during colder months.
Rotary Areas of Focus:
- Community Health
- Economic Development
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Warren Township Food Pantry (Gurnee)
- Local corporate sponsors (e.g., Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s)
Next Steps:
- Contact local pantry leaders such as COOL Ministries (Waukegan) or Warren Township Food Pantry (Gurnee) to assess immediate needs.
- Organize a large-scale food drive (possibly themed for winter or spring) with Rotary members and school clubs to collect and sort non-perishable foods.
- Pursue matching grants from Rotary International or partner with local businesses for financial or food contributions.
- Arrange for Rotarians to volunteer in pantries, assisting with distribution and client intake during high-traffic days.
2. Supporting Lake County No-Kill Animal Shelters & Education on Animal Welfare
Context:
A recent feature noted how "Grayslake’s nearby no-kill shelter finds forever homes for struggling pets." These shelters are critical community resources, but they often struggle with funding for supplies, veterinary care, and public outreach, especially as adoption awareness fluctuates. Pet ownership education also supports healthier communities and responsible animal stewardship.
Rotary Areas of Focus:
- Community Health
- Education
- Environment
Potential Partners:
- Save-A-Pet Adoption Center (Grayslake)
- Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter (Libertyville)
- Local veterinarians (e.g., Animal Hospital of Gurnee)
- School districts for youth outreach
Next Steps:
- Coordinate a Rotary-sponsored fundraising event (such as a “Paws for a Cause” walk or pet supply drive) benefitting local no-kill shelters.
- Develop and deliver educational workshops or school presentations on responsible pet care, adoption, and animal welfare.
- Work with shelters to establish “adoption day” events at local businesses or community festivals, leveraging Rotary volunteers for logistics and publicity.
- Seek matching grants or contributions for high-need items (pet food, medical supplies, enrichment toys), and offer Rotarian support for shelter clean-up or maintenance days.
1. Holiday Food and Essentials Drive for Local Families
Context:
Winter and the holiday season can be an especially difficult time for families facing financial hardship, and food insecurity is a growing issue in Lake County, including communities like Gurnee and Waukegan. With multiple holiday events (like the Timeless Treasures Holiday Concert in Grayslake and community gatherings throughout Lake County in December), there is a natural opportunity to rally community support around basic needs. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on “Community Health” and “Supporting Local Economies.”
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- College of Lake County (main campus in Grayslake, active in community service)
- Local churches (e.g., Grace Anglican Fellowship, a visible community host)
- Schools and PTOs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake
Next Steps:
- Connect with the events’ organizers and local venues to set up donation bins and promote the drive at holiday concerts and markets (e.g., KC's Cabin Last Minute Market, CLC’s Nutcracker performances, and Round Lake’s Holiday Band Concert).
- Partner with the Northern Illinois Food Bank or local pantries to determine highest-need items (nonperishable food, hygiene essentials, winter clothing).
- Organize volunteers—Rotarians, students, and civic groups—for collection, sorting, and distribution.
- Publicize the drive through event advertising, social media of partners, and on-site at each holiday event.
- Invite donors to make financial contributions for purchasing additional goods if preferred.
2. Youth Arts and Cultural Access Project
Context:
Lake County is hosting several holiday arts events, from concerts at the James Lumber Center to performances at Grace Anglican Fellowship and College of Lake County's Nutcracker. Yet, not all families can afford tickets or transportation, and some young people lack access to these enriching cultural experiences. Promotion of arts and culture supports “Education” and “Youth Development,” both Rotary priorities—and can foster inclusivity.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Symphony Orchestra (hosting the Timeless Treasures Holiday Concert)
- College of Lake County Performing Arts Department
- Local school districts (D56 in Gurnee, Waukegan District 60)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County
- Local businesses willing to sponsor youth tickets or transportation
Next Steps:
- Approach arts event organizers with a proposal to sponsor free or reduced-cost tickets for youth and families with limited means.
- Work with schools and youth-serving organizations to identify interested students and coordinate their attendance.
- Collaborate with businesses and civic groups (Rotary, Lions, etc.) for sponsorship or volunteer support (including chaperoning and transportation).
- Publicize the opportunity through school counselors, after-school programs, and social media.
- After the season, hold a feedback or story-sharing event inviting youth to reflect on the impact and exploring how to expand cultural access long-term.
Both initiatives can be launched in time for the December holiday season, leverage current events, and establish Rotary as a proactive community presence in supporting health, youth, and inclusion in Lake County.
Based on recent news and ongoing community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Warming Center Support and Winter Essentials Drive (Community Health / Basic Needs)
Context:
A recent news story highlights the dangerously cold weather affecting Lake Forest and the broader Lake County region, with an emphasis on available warming centers. Severe cold disproportionately impacts vulnerable groups: the homeless, low-income families, and elderly residents. While warming centers provide shelter, there is likely a need for additional support, including supplies like warm clothing, blankets, and hygiene kits, as well as outreach to ensure people know where and how to access services.
Potential Partners:
- Local warming centers (municipal facilities, churches, and nonprofits such as PADS Lake County and Salvation Army Waukegan Corps)
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul (noted for local Giving Tuesday campaigns)
- Local businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire as a sponsor or collection site)
- Area schools and youth groups, engaging Rotary youth programs (Interact, Rotaract) for volunteerism
Next Steps:
- Contact the listed warming centers and local organizations to assess their immediate needs.
- Set up donation collection points at community-minded businesses.
- Organize a Winter Essentials Drive, publicized via Patch news and social media, to collect items such as coats, gloves, hats, socks, and hygiene kits.
- Arrange for Rotary members and youth volunteers to help assemble kits and distribute both supplies and warming center information in targeted neighborhoods.
- Consider a fundraising component to purchase needed items not received via donation.
2. Safe Streets Education & Pedestrian Safety Initiative (Community Health / Education / Youth Safety)
Context:
A recent incident in Lake Forest involving a pedestrian and her pet struck by a car underscores a local concern for pedestrian and traffic safety. With increased traffic and changing weather conditions, community members—especially children and seniors—are at greater risk. There is an opportunity to address both immediate needs and longer-term education about pedestrian and road safety.
Potential Partners:
- Local law enforcement (Lake Forest Police Department, Lake County Sheriff's Office)
- Public and private schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake Forest
- Municipal Departments of Transportation or Public Works
- Parent-teacher associations (PTAs), and local businesses to sponsor signage or incentives
- Rotary youth programs to lead peer education efforts
Next Steps:
- Reach out to local law enforcement about recent safety data and collaboration.
- Develop a Safe Streets campaign, including assemblies at schools, distribution of reflective gear (vests, bracelets), and "Walk Safe" educational materials for students and families.
- Sponsor community events (“Walk to School Day,” bicycle/traffic safety fairs) in partnership with schools and municipalities.
- Launch a fundraising drive to support the purchase/design of safety materials, crossing guard equipment, or sponsorship of improved signage at key intersections.
- Measure impact by tracking participant numbers, distribution and use of safety gear, and feedback from schools and the community.
Both initiatives offer immediate service impact and ongoing engagement, aligning directly with Rotary’s commitment to community health, education, and support for vulnerable populations.
1. Community Health & Safety Initiative: Domestic Violence and Crisis Family Support
Context:
The recent incident in Beach Park, where a man set a house on fire following a family argument, highlights ongoing challenges with domestic violence and family crises in Lake County. Additionally, the ZCenter in Libertyville recently received grants for community education and prevention related to abuse, suggesting growing support and a need for further outreach. Rotary’s focus on supporting community health and mental wellbeing aligns with addressing these issues.
Potential Partners:
- ZCenter (Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center)
- Lake County Health Department
- Local law enforcement and fire departments
- Faith-based organizations (e.g., Society of St. Vincent de Paul)
- Counseling and shelter services (A Safe Place Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Connect with ZCenter and local shelters to identify gaps in existing services or education programs.
- Develop and fund a series of workshops for community members and youth on conflict resolution, domestic safety, and accessing local resources.
- Organize a fundraising event (e.g., charity 5K, silent auction) with proceeds to support shelters, emergency accommodation, and mental health first-aid training for volunteers.
- Create and distribute resource kits (hotline numbers, information on services) at schools, places of worship, and community centers.
- Coordinate with law enforcement and fire departments for outreach on emergency response and prevention.
2. Youth Empowerment and Education Project: Missing Children Prevention & Support
Context:
The recent report of a missing 14-year-old boy in Libertyville, who was fortunately reunited with his family, draws attention to the importance of youth safety, positive engagement, and rapid response to missing child cases. Rotary’s emphasis on supporting education and youth aligns with bolstering preventative education and supporting local efforts to keep youth safe and connected.
Potential Partners:
- Libertyville High School and other area schools
- Local police departments and youth outreach officers
- Parent-teacher organizations
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago
- Youth mental health services
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with local schools to host workshops on youth safety, digital awareness (online safety), and mental health.
- Organize a community forum inviting parents, police, school counselors, and former missing youth or their families to share advice and support strategies.
- Fund or sponsor a youth mentoring program in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters and local schools.
- Create ‘Safe Community’ resource posters and distribute them to libraries, recreation centers, and afterschool program locations.
- Explore establishing a local scholarship for teens engaged with peer support or safety initiatives.