Based on the December 12, 2025 local news and employment/community updates from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that align with Rotary's areas of focus and the current needs in the community:
1. Library Court Access Assistance Program Expansion
- Rotary Area of Focus: Supporting Education, Community & Economic Development, Peace & Conflict Prevention
- Context: The Daily Herald Editorial Board highlighted a court access pilot program active in 18 Illinois libraries that provides free assistance to residents navigating the civil court system. Accessible legal help is crucial in communities with limited resources, such as parts of Waukegan and Lake County, where residents face barriers due to language, finances, or familiarity with the legal system. Expanding or supporting this program locally could improve legal literacy, promote fairness, and reduce family and economic stress.
- Potential Partners:
- Lake County Public Library System (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library)
- Illinois Legal Aid Online
- Local bar associations (Lake County Bar Association)
- Law schools at nearby universities
- Next Steps:
1. Contact library directors in Gurnee and Waukegan to discuss the presence and impact of the pilot program.
2. Organize a community needs assessment with local legal aid organizations to identify underserved populations.
3. Plan a Rotary fundraising event (such as a legal information fair or community dinner) to support training for volunteer legal navigators, language translation materials, or technology for virtual court consultations.
4. Recruit Rotary volunteers and community partners to assist in ongoing program support, publicity, and logistical operations.
2. Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Outreach & Support Initiative
- Rotary Area of Focus: Supporting Education, Growing Local Economies, Empowering Youth
- Context: The notice from IBEW Local 117 JATC about upcoming electrician and telecommunications apprenticeship openings in January 2026 signals a push for more young people and adults into the skilled trades. These jobs offer strong wages and career pathways, but many students and families lack access to information and resources to successfully apply. Lake County, with its mix of urban and suburban populations, can benefit from better career outreach, especially for underrepresented groups.
- Potential Partners:
- IBEW Local 117 Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (JATC)
- Local high schools (Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School, Gurnee)
- Lake County Workforce Development
- Local businesses in the electrical and technology sectors
- Next Steps:
1. Connect with IBEW Local 117 JATC to collaborate on promoting the apprenticeship program in Gurnee and Waukegan schools.
2. Organize a “Trades Career Exploration Day” at a local high school or community center, featuring hands-on demonstrations, application workshops, and mentorship panels.
3. Develop scholarships or “application support kits” (covering costs for travel to the application office, required documentation, or work attire) using Rotary club fundraising or matching grants.
4. Coordinate with school counselors to ensure sustained outreach and follow-up for students interested in skilled trades pathways.
Both initiatives address immediate needs highlighted by current events and foster Rotary’s ongoing commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities in Lake County.
Certainly! Based on the recent news items and community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service/fundraising opportunities that align with Rotary’s key areas of focus:
1. Community Warming Drives and Winter Assistance Programs
Rotary Areas of Focus: Disease Prevention & Treatment, Community Health
Context:
The Lake County News-Sun reports extremely bitter temperatures and subzero wind chills predicted through the winter. Vulnerable community members, including families struggling with housing or financial insecurity, are at increased risk. Many residents, especially in cities like Waukegan and North Chicago, may lack adequate winter clothing, heating assistance, or suitable shelter.
Potential Partners:
- PADS Lake County (homeless support)
- Waukegan Public Library (as a drop-off site)
- Local schools and churches
- Salvation Army Waukegan Corps
- Midwest Veterans Closet (for veterans in need)
Next Steps:
- Organize a winter clothing and blanket drive: Collect donations of new/gently used coats, hats, boots, gloves, blankets, and hand warmers.
- Fundraise for heating assistance: Host a winter-themed event (hot cocoa night, virtual trivia, or chili cook-off) to raise funds for utility bill assistance, distributing proceeds via partner agencies.
- Mobilize Rotary volunteers: Sort, pack, and distribute items in coordination with partners, prioritizing areas with high need as identified by agencies like PADS and local schools.
- Publicize the event: Work with the Lake County News-Sun and social media to engage donors and volunteers.
2. Promoting Civic Engagement and Youth Leadership
Rotary Area of Focus: Education, Youth Empowerment, Peacebuilding
Context:
With local youth engagement making headlines—such as the Lake Forest Academy student winning the “I Voted” sticker contest and efforts to excite young people about the election process—there is clear community momentum around increasing civic literacy and leadership skills in the next generation.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Clerk Anthony Vega's office
- Area high schools (e.g., Lake Forest Academy, Waukegan High School)
- Lake County League of Women Voters
- Libraries and youth organizations (e.g., Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts)
Next Steps:
- Host Youth Civic Engagement Workshops: Rotary can partner with schools and the County Clerk to organize workshops on voting, local government, and leadership. Include activities like mock elections, debate nights, and design contests for election-related materials.
- Scholarship or Award Program: Establish an annual Rotary Youth Civic Leader award or scholarship for Lake County students demonstrating commitment to civic involvement.
- Promote volunteerism: Encourage youth to assist with actual local elections or community events (poll worker recruitment, voter outreach).
- Fundraising: Hold an event (e.g., Youth Leadership Gala) to support scholarships and civic education materials, in collaboration with educational and governmental partners.
These projects respond directly to the most pressing and current needs reflected in local news, support vulnerable populations, and foster next-generation leaders—fully in alignment with Rotary values and priorities.
1. Youth Literacy & Academic Excellence: Lake County Spelling Bee Champions Celebration and Scholarship Fund
Context:
Lake County’s seventh-grade student, Visharad Sathish, recently won a marathon county-wide spelling bee and is heading to represent the region at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This achievement showcases the academic talent in the area and highlights the importance of fostering literacy and academic excellence for youth—a key Rotary area of focus.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education: To access schools and students throughout the county.
- Local Libraries: Such as Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee and Waukegan Public Library for venue and outreach.
- Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs): For volunteer support and student engagement.
- Media Partners: Lake County News-Sun for coverage and publicity.
- Local Businesses: For event sponsorship or in-kind donations.
Next Steps:
- Connect with the Regional Office of Education to express Rotary’s interest in supporting academic excellence and to discuss collaboration.
- Organize a celebration event honoring all local spelling bee participants and finalists, with special recognition for Visharad Sathish and other standout students.
- Establish a Rotary Youth Academic Achievement Scholarship Fund for future academic competitors (e.g., spelling, math, science).
- Develop a literacy outreach program (workshops, reading challenges, or mentorships) involving local Rotarians as volunteers or mentors.
- Secure sponsorships and donations through local businesses to support travel, educational resources, or scholarships.
- Amplify the event’s impact with media coverage and Rotary branding to help inspire community support for youth literacy initiatives.
2. Community Health & Support: Winter Wellness Drive for At-Risk Youth and Families
Context:
Recent local news indicates extreme winter weather (noted temperatures of 24°F and bitter subzero wind chills)—conditions which pose risks, especially to at-risk youth and low-income families in Gurnee, Waukegan, and wider Lake County. In line with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention, maternal/child health, and supporting vulnerable populations, an organized community service/fundraising project can address seasonal needs for warmth, health, and well-being.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department: For guidance on the most urgent needs and outreach to affected populations.
- Local School Districts (e.g., Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee School District 56): To identify under-resourced students and families.
- Non-profits: PADS Lake County (provides shelter and services to homeless), COOL Ministries (food and clothing support).
- Area Businesses: For collection points and contributions (clothing retailers, pharmacies).
- Faith-based Organizations: Many already run day-shelters or pantry services.
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with social service agencies to identify items most in need: winter coats, gloves, hats, boots, warm socks, blankets, cold/flu kits, etc.
- Launch a Winter Wellness Drive (Rotary Warmth & Wellness) with drop-off points at libraries, churches, and participating schools, promoted through social media and local news.
- Host a community “Wellness Event” in partnership with health providers, offering free flu shots, health screenings, and on-site distribution of warm clothing and supplies.
- Mobilize Rotarians as volunteers to help sort donations, distribute gear, and provide logistical support at events.
- Pursue financial donations with a “Sponsor-A-Family” option for local supporters who wish to directly sponsor needed items.
- Follow up with schools and agencies to assess impact, publish outcomes, and plan for future winter readiness and health initiatives.
These two projects connect directly to vital Rotary focus areas by fostering youth education and addressing urgent community health needs through tangible outreach and sustainable partnerships.
1. Community Health: Support for Food Security
Context:
According to recent Grayslake and Lake County news, Chicago-area food pantries are seeing a sharp rise in visits over the past year, reflecting increasing food insecurity in the region. This aligns closely with Rotary’s focus area of community health and economic development.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Community Action Partnership of Lake County
- Local churches and civic organizations (e.g., The Chapel in Grayslake)
- Grayslake and Waukegan Public Libraries (distribution points or program hosts)
- Local supermarkets (for food drives/sponsorship)
Next Steps:
- Contact Northern Illinois Food Bank to discuss needs, current gaps, and suggested strategies (e.g., mobile food distributions, pantry restocking).
- Organize a rotary-led food drive or benefit (possible options: a grocery “fill the cart” weekend, a charity dinner, or a dollar-matching campaign with local businesses).
- Engage local schools and youth groups (e.g., Scouts, Interact Clubs) to help promote and volunteer.
- Coordinate with local media for publicity, and provide donation options (food and funds).
- Schedule regular follow-ups to assess impact and determine if a recurring effort is needed or if expansion to other towns in Lake County is feasible.
2. Youth & Families: Grief Support and Community Safety Programming
Context:
Recent incidents in Grayslake and Lake County — including the conviction in a fatal shooting at a local Dollar General and the discovery of a murdered woman — signal acute community trauma and renewed worries about safety and support, especially among youth and families. These incidents call for both immediate support for those affected by violence and proactive engagement with youth to foster a safer community, aligning with Rotary’s focus on youth support, peacebuilding, and mental wellbeing.
Potential Partners:
- Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (ZCenter) – offers trauma counseling in Gurnee and surrounding areas
- Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center
- Lake County community police liaisons
- Schools and youth organizations (e.g., after-school clubs, Park District programs)
- Local counseling centers and churches
Next Steps:
- Convene a roundtable with social service and mental health partners to identify current resources and gaps for youth and families affected by violence.
- Organize Rotary-sponsored support sessions or healing circles offering free, confidential resources for families and young people impacted by recent tragedies.
- Launch a “Youth for Peace” workshop or summit, in partnership with schools and city police, focusing on violence prevention, resilience-building, and positive choices.
- Apply for a Rotary District Grant to subsidize professional counselors or program facilitators.
- Publicize these resources and events through school newsletters, social media, and local media outlets; measure impact via attendance and follow-up surveys.
By focusing on these two opportunities, local Rotary clubs can address urgent community needs, work alongside established community partners, and fulfill key Rotary areas of focus in Lake County.
1. Youth Music & Arts Access Initiative (Rotary Support for Underserved Students)
Context:
Several Grayslake and Lake County events highlight vibrant local arts, including the Lake County Symphony Orchestra’s holiday concerts (e.g., "Timeless Treasures" at James Lumber Center, Dec. 12) and student/young artist showcases like the Sinéad Carus GAA Meet & Greet at 3Legged Coffee Brewery. However, across Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County, many students face financial barriers to participating in arts and music programs—which are crucial for youth development and community engagement.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Symphony Orchestra (Artistic Director: Jim Stephenson)
- Local schools (e.g., Grayslake North/South, Waukegan High School)
- College of Lake County Performing Arts Department
- Grayslake Arts Alliance
- Community youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Connect with Lake County Symphony Orchestra and schools to assess scholarships/instrument needs and student participation gaps.
- Plan a Rotary fundraiser event (concert gala, community arts fair) in partnership with local artists and students, raising funds for youth scholarships, instrument rentals, and lessons.
- Invite partner performances at major Rotary events to further highlight youth talent and Rotary’s support.
- Identify volunteers and possible sponsors (local music stores, arts supporters).
- Develop a robust marketing plan for concert attendees and donors.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Education, Youth Development, Community Engagement
2. Senior Wellness & Outreach Program (Rotary Health & Community Support for Older Adults)
Context:
The recent Mobile DMV at Libertyville Senior Center and holiday markets signal ongoing efforts to engage and support Lake County’s aging population. Many seniors face transportation, healthcare access, and social isolation challenges—magnified during winter and holiday periods. As the region’s senior demographic grows, there is strong need for targeted support and wellness initiatives.
Potential Partners:
- Libertyville Senior Center (regular Mobile DMV host)
- Lake County Health Department & Senior Services
- Local transportation services (PACE, Ride Lake County)
- Social service agencies (Catholic Charities, A Safe Place)
- Village governments (Gurnee, Waukegan, Grayslake) senior coordinators
Next Steps:
- Meet with Libertyville and local senior centers to determine priority needs (e.g., health screenings, technology literacy, social engagement, transportation assistance).
- Organize a Rotary-led Senior Wellness Day with health checks, vision/hearing screenings, flu shots, and informational sessions on community resources.
- Launch a “Winter Check-In” program utilizing Rotary volunteers to make welfare calls, deliver meals, or supply holiday gifts/care packages—reducing isolation.
- Secure guest speakers/partners such as local pharmacists, nurses, or county health staff.
- Publicize through local event calendars and Rotary channels to maximize turnout and impact.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community Health, Disease Prevention, Supporting the Elderly, Reducing Isolation
Both projects respond directly to visible community needs while strategically leveraging local events, organizations, and Rotary’s strength as a convener and supporter of lasting change.
Based on the recent news in Lake Forest, Waukegan, Gurnee, and greater Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising project recommendations, each aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Health & Safety: “Safe Streets and Sidewalks” Awareness and Support Campaign Context: A tragic incident recently occurred in Lake Forest where a pedestrian and her pet were struck by a car. While this highlights a pressing concern regarding pedestrian safety, safe mobility is a recognized issue in many local communities, especially where winter and low visibility complicate travel. The rising need for traffic awareness and pedestrian infrastructure improvements aligns closely with Rotary’s area of Disease Prevention and Community Health.
Potential Partners: - Lake Forest and Gurnee Police Departments (for data sharing and safety workshops) - Local Departments of Public Works (for input on infrastructure priorities) - Waukegan Park District and Lake County Health Department (to help identify high-risk areas) - Local bicycle and walking advocacy groups (such as Lake County Division of Transportation’s “MoveSafe” campaign) - School district safety councils, PTAs, and student clubs (for school corridor improvements and youth education)
Next Steps: - Convene a roundtable with stakeholders (inviting city officials, police, transportation planners, local schools, and advocacy groups) to assess current sidewalk/crosswalk “danger zones.” - Launch a fundraising campaign for safety materials (reflective vests, signs, crosswalk paint, flashing lights) and programming (community workshops, walk-to-school days). - Organize Rotary-sponsored “Walk & Roll Safety Fairs” and distribute educational materials, possibly using an engaging mascot or kid-friendly branding. - Advocate for city/county grant submissions for infrastructure upgrades, with Rotary providing matching or seed funds.
2. Youth & Education: “Warm Hearts, Warm Minds” Winter Gear Drive and Winter Tutoring Support Context: With dangerously cold weather approaching and highlighted by the recent publicization of local warming centers in Lake Forest, there is a clear community need for both emergency winter assistance and supportive youth programming over the winter months, especially in communities such as Waukegan and Gurnee that face higher rates of family hardship. Rotary’s areas of focus include Basic Education & Literacy and Child Welfare.
Potential Partners: - Local schools and libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Woodland School District) - Social service agencies (such as PADS Lake County, COOL Ministries, and United Way of Lake County) - Religious congregations participating in warming shelter networks (see Patch’s reports on Congregation Sukkat Shalom’s senior outreach—consider a youth and family focus) - Businesses with retail/footwear connections (e.g., Waukegan Tire, local clothing stores) for in-kind donations or drop-off sites
Next Steps: - Kick off a Rotary “Winter Gear Drive” with community bins placed at schools, libraries, and participating businesses—collecting coats, hats, gloves, and boots for local children and youth. - Pair gear distribution with a “Winter Success Saturday” program at the local library or community center, combining literacy tutoring and after-school enrichment for students. - Recruit Rotarians and high school students (possibly via Interact Clubs at Lake County high schools) as tutors and program assistants. - Promote the initiative via Patch, school newsletters, and social media, and collaborate with local businesses for incentive partnerships (e.g., coupon with donation).
Both projects capitalize on current events, address timely needs, and can foster strong community partnerships for effective Rotary impact.
1. Community Health and Wellness Support in Response to Recent Crisis
Context:
Recent reports from Lake County, including incidents such as a man allegedly setting his house on fire in Beach Park after a family argument, suggest ongoing challenges with mental health, stress management, and domestic crisis prevention in the community. The winter season, combined with economic and pandemic aftereffects, can intensify domestic strain and mental health needs.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center
- A Safe Place (Lake County's domestic violence organization)
- Gurnee and Waukegan Police and Fire Departments
- Local school districts
- Rosalind Franklin University students and faculty (public health, counseling)
Next Steps:
- Engage the Lake County Health Department and A Safe Place to assess current gaps in community mental health and crisis support.
- Organize a community wellness fair or series of workshops offering free counseling, conflict resolution training, domestic violence prevention resources, and stress management tools.
- Fundraise for emergency hotel or shelter stays for families in crisis, or partner with local hotels for donated rooms.
- Create a Rotary-led task force including youth ambassadors to engage peers and families about mental well-being.
- Seek grants or matching funds from district Rotary for mental health initiatives.
2. Environmental Education and Youth Empowerment: Winter Nature Challenge
Context:
With recent heavy snowfall and residents sharing snow photos and stories (e.g., 7-foot snowman, winter wonderland scenes), there’s renewed community appreciation for local parks and the environment. This is an opportune moment to engage youth and families in environmental stewardship, education, and outdoor activity—aligning with Rotary’s focus on youth and the environment.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Waukegan Park District and Gurnee Park District
- Lake County schools, outdoor and STEM clubs
- Local businesses (REI, local coffee shops)
- Libertyville/Waukegan Rotary Interact Clubs
Next Steps:
- Develop a "Winter Nature Challenge"—a family-friendly series of events or contests encouraging outdoor activity, environmental education, and stewardship (e.g., nature scavenger hunts, wildlife tracking, snow science experiments).
- Partner with park districts and schools to offer educational materials and leader training.
- Fundraise for pollinator garden kits, tree planting, or winter education resources for participating schools and community groups.
- Highlight student leadership and award community service certificates.
- Promote through local news, Patch.com, and school district communications.