Based on the provided news highlights for December 15, 2025, in Gurnee/Waukegan/Lake County, the following Rotary service or fundraising opportunities align with Rotary’s areas of focus, especially community health, education, youth, and economic development:
1. Digital Literacy & Critical Thinking Workshops for Students
Context:
A prominent op-ed by educator Kelly Torres highlights the urgent need for students to develop critical thinking skills as AI tools become widespread in education. There is a growing concern that while AI can be a powerful asset, students in Lake County (including Gurnee and Waukegan) may lack the nuanced understanding and discernment required to use these technologies effectively and ethically.
Rotary Area of Focus:
Education & Literacy; Youth Development
Potential Partners: - Local school districts (Waukegan Community Unit School District 60, Gurnee School District 56) - College of Lake County - Lake County Libraries - Local IT professionals and businesses (potentially companies like RBC Technology Solutions LLC) - Youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps: - Convene a meeting with local educators and technology coordinators to assess gaps in digital literacy and AI understanding. - Design interactive workshops, potentially led by educators, technologists, and Rotarians, focusing on responsible AI usage, online safety, and critical thinking skills. - Seek sponsorships or in-kind donations (laptops, software) from local businesses or IT firms. - Launch a pilot program in one school, gather feedback, and expand to others. - Promote the initiative through local media and community events to maximize student and parent engagement.
2. Career Pathways Fair for Trade Apprenticeships & Youth Employment
Context:
A major job posting from IBEW Local 117 JATC features open apprenticeships for electrical and telecommunications careers in early 2026. Awareness and access to such viable, well-paid career opportunities (especially in the trades) are often limited among local youth, particularly those from underserved communities in Waukegan and Gurnee.
Rotary Area of Focus:
Economic Development; Youth Development; Education
Potential Partners: - IBEW Local 117 JATC (Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee) - Lake County Workforce Development Board - Local high schools (especially vocational counselors) - Community colleges (College of Lake County, tech programs) - Employers/industry partners in the trades
Next Steps: - Partner with IBEW Local 117 and local high school guidance departments to host a Trade & Career Pathways Fair in January 2026. - Organize informational panel sessions, hands-on demonstrations, and resume/interview skills workshops for youth and young adults. - Engage local businesses to exhibit, offer mentorships, or sponsor the event. - Publicize through school communications, community centers, and local news outlets. - Develop follow-up mentorships or job-shadowing opportunities for interested students in collaboration with industry partners and Rotarians.
Both opportunities address immediate community needs: preparing youth for a rapidly changing digital future and connecting them with sustainable, high-demand career pathways. By harnessing existing news and community events, local Rotary clubs can act as powerful conveners and catalysts for positive change.
1. Service Project: Supporting Reunification and Wellness for Detained Immigrants at North Lake Processing Center
Context:
A December 2025 Chicago Tribune article highlighted Rebecca De La Luz’s work reuniting formerly detained immigrants at the North Lake Processing Center in Baldwin, IL, with their Chicago-area families. Many immigrants lack local connections or support, facing trauma, uncertainty, and health challenges.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health, Peace and Conflict Resolution
Potential Partners:
- Local agencies: Mano a Mano Family Resource Center, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR)
- Rebecca De La Luz (community organizer)
- Faith-based organizations offering family support
- Health clinics (e.g., Erie Family Health Center)
Project Idea:
Organize a service project to supply care kits (hygiene, warm clothing, snacks, prepaid phone cards, resource guides) for recently released detainees. Additionally, coordinate volunteer drivers or transport vouchers to help with family reunification, and provide mental health resource referral sheets in multiple languages.
Next Steps: - Contact Rebecca De La Luz and Mano a Mano to assess current needs and coordination. - Engage Waukegan and Gurnee Rotary Clubs plus local Interact/Rotaract youth groups as volunteers for kit assembly, translation, and logistics. - Solicit donations from local churches, schools, and businesses (Walgreens, Jewel-Osco for hygiene items; Lyft/Uber for transport credits). - Schedule a kit-packing event and arrange distribution points. - Evaluate impact via follow-up with partners and beneficiary feedback.
2. Fundraising Initiative: Traffic Safety Education for Youth After Recent Long Grove Worker Injury
Context:
A December 2025 article details a serious injury to a roadway worker in Long Grove due to a traffic accident, highlighting ongoing safety challenges for workers and the general public—especially distracted or inexperienced drivers. Schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and throughout Lake County seek resources for student driver safety and pedestrian awareness.
Rotary Area of Focus: Education, Community Safety
Potential Partners: - Lake County Division of Transportation - Local high schools (Warren Township HS, Waukegan HS) - IDOT Safe Routes to School program - Police and Fire Departments (for presentations) - Local businesses with a stake in roadway safety (auto dealers, insurance agents)
Project Idea:
Host a fundraising campaign—Rotary Road Safety Challenge—to provide updated traffic safety education materials, in-school demonstrations (e.g., distracted/impaired driving simulators), reflective gear for student pedestrians, and small grants for student-led safety initiatives. Feature injured roadway workers or first responders as guest speakers.
Next Steps: - Reach out to Lake County DOT and local schools to confirm interest and priority needs. - Form a Rotary planning committee to draft a fundraising plan (event, online campaign, sponsor outreach). - Enlist business partners to support or match contributions. - Collaborate with police/fire departments for engaging demos and talks. - Launch the campaign in spring (align with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month). - Track participation, distribute educational kits/gear, and measure outcomes by pre/post surveys with students and staff.
Certainly! Here are two tailored Rotary service or fundraising opportunities based on recent news and needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL:
1. Literacy and Academic Achievement Support for Local Youth (Education/Youth)
Context:
The recent recognition of Visharad Sathish, a Lake County seventh-grader advancing to the National Spelling Bee, highlights both the academic potential and the competitive spirit among area youth. This news shines a spotlight on the importance of literacy initiatives, access to academic enrichment, and the need to support more students—especially those from under-resourced backgrounds—to excel in language arts and spelling.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Local schools (especially Title I schools in Waukegan and Gurnee)
- Public libraries (e.g., Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee, Waukegan Public Library)
- Youth organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Reach Out: Contact the Lake County Regional Office of Education and the administrators of area spelling bees to gauge needs and opportunities.
- Program Planning: Develop a yearly Rotary Literacy & Spelling Program including mentoring, after-school spelling clubs, word game nights, and scholarship or sponsorship support for educational trips (such as National Spelling Bee participation).
- Volunteer Recruitment: Mobilize Rotary volunteers and recruit additional community members as spelling coaches and literacy mentors.
- Fundraise: Organize an annual fundraiser (e.g., community spelling bee, family literacy event, or “Sponsor-a-Scholar” campaign) to fund transportation, resources, and prizes for participants.
- Monitor and Expand: Collect participant feedback and expand the initiative based on student/teacher support and demonstrated community need.
2. Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing Initiative (Community Health/Youth)
Context:
While not detailed in the article, recent trends and community reports suggest a rising need for youth mental health support—especially given the pressures evident from academic competitions, social media, and pandemic aftereffects. Waukegan and Gurnee schools, like others nationwide, are seeking practical ways to address student stress, boost resilience, and provide positive peer interaction.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department—Behavioral Health Services
- School districts (Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee District 56)
- Mental health nonprofits (e.g., NAMI Lake County)
- Local pediatric clinics
- Churches and youth faith groups
Next Steps:
- Needs Assessment: Convene a roundtable with school counselors, nurses, and local health officials to identify key mental health stressors and program gaps for area youth.
- Awareness Campaign: Launch a “Mind Matters” outreach campaign to reduce stigma, share resources, and promote positive coping skills within schools and on social media.
- Interactive Workshops & Support: Develop in-school workshops and after-school clubs focusing on mindfulness, self-care, peer support, and stress management.
- Resource Fundraising: Hold a “Wellness Walk” or community event to raise funds for student support kits (journals, stress-relief tools, resource guides) and to subsidize counseling for students in need.
- Sustainability: Explore grants and Rotary Foundation support for ongoing programming; train volunteers as wellness ambassadors in partnership with mental health professionals.
Both of these initiatives align closely with Rotary’s focus on education, youth development, and community health—while engaging local partners, leveraging volunteer power, and addressing timely needs in the Lake County region.
Based on the recent news and community updates from the Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL area, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that directly respond to current events and align with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Community Health: Safe Infant Nutrition Initiative
Context:
Recent news has highlighted an alarming uptick in infant botulism cases tied to contaminated baby formula, alongside recalls of other food products due to salmonella and mold. This raises immediate concerns about food security and safety, especially for vulnerable families with infants or young children. With Chicago-area food pantries also seeing a spike in visits over the past year, the need for reliable access to healthy, uncontaminated baby formula and food is clear.
Potential Partners: - Northern Illinois Food Bank - Local hospitals and clinics (e.g., Lake County Health Department) - Lake County Health Department’s WIC Program - Local Walgreens, CVS, and independent pharmacies - Lake County social service agencies
Next Steps: - Convene a meeting with public health officials and food pantry managers to assess the urgency and scope of local needs related to infant formula and food safety. - Organize a service project or fundraiser to collect and distribute safe baby formula and supplies to food pantries and directly to families in need; consider purchasing in bulk from verified sources. - Launch an educational campaign on safe formula storage, preparation, and recent recalls, potentially organizing workshops at food pantries and clinics. - Explore local grant opportunities or partner with baby product companies for sponsorship or donations. - Publicize the initiative through social media and local news outlets to maximize reach and impact.
2. Youth & Education: Community Journalism and Media Literacy Program
Context:
Grayslake High School recently contributed to a major journalism award—a notable achievement that underscores the value of student journalism and responsible reporting. Given current challenges with misinformation—especially as seen with sensitive incidents such as reported teen kidnapping and community crime—there’s an opportunity to empower local youth with skills in ethical journalism, media literacy, and civic engagement.
Potential Partners: - Grayslake Central and North High Schools’ journalism programs - College of Lake County’s communication and media departments - Lake County News-Sun, Patch.com, and other local media - Area libraries and youth centers
Next Steps: - Connect with the Grayslake High School journalism faculty and award-winning students to help launch a Rotary-sponsored youth journalism workshop or club. - Organize a community summit on media literacy featuring professional journalists, local media, and law enforcement to discuss responsible reporting, digital safety, and fact-checking. - Develop an ongoing mentorship program pairing Rotary members or local journalists with student reporters to produce responsible, youth-led stories on community issues. - Seek grant funding or sponsorships for equipment (cameras, laptops, editing software) and scholarships for participants interested in pursuing careers in communications. - Showcase student journalism through Rotary events and local publications, fostering pride and transparency in community storytelling.
Both projects address immediate needs and leverage local strengths, while supporting Rotary’s focus on community health, youth, and education.
Certainly! Based on recent news, event schedules, and ongoing community needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, here are two recommended Rotary service or fundraising projects aligned with Rotary's areas of focus:
1. Mental Health and Wellness Initiatives for Youth
Context:
Recent discussions in Lake County—including Gurnee and Waukegan—have highlighted rising concerns about youth mental health, especially as students approach and transition through the winter break and holidays, a time known to accentuate stress, loneliness, and mental health struggles. The College of Lake County (CLC) and its student organizations are already active in community outreach and have spaces for hosting events (as evidenced by “The Nutcracker” performances). The community would benefit from expanded access to wellness resources, peer support, and education on mental health.
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (Student Life and Counseling Services)
- Local school districts (Waukegan 60, Gurnee 56, Warren Township High School)
- Lake County Health Department
- Youth mental health nonprofits (e.g., NAMI Lake County)
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with CLC’s campus wellness office to co-host a Winter Wellness Fair in early January, offering resources, stress-relief activities, and short talks from mental health professionals.
- Organize a Youth-Led Panel, with Rotary sponsoring stipends or scholarships for participating students.
- Launch an awareness and fundraising campaign during upcoming high-attendance events at CLC (such as future performances or band concerts), where proceeds go to support school-based mental health services or fund scholarships for youth in crisis.
2. Holiday Food and Essentials Drive
Context:
Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, continues to see high demand at local food pantries, especially around the holidays. With events like KC’s Cabin Last Minute Market and concerts drawing local crowds, the opportunity exists for Rotary to partner with these venues for a food and essentials drive. The ongoing economic challenges and the presence of families in need underscore the importance of ensuring no one goes without food or basic necessities during the holiday season.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Libertyville Township Food Pantry
- Warren Township Youth & Family Services
- College of Lake County (site for drop-off and collection)
- Local event venues (KC’s Cabin, CLC theater department organizing “The Nutcracker”)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with event organizers to set up donation bins at December events (band concerts, KC’s Cabin market, “The Nutcracker”).
- Mobilize Rotary volunteers for collection, sorting, and delivery of items to food pantries.
- Publicize the drive through local media and school district communication channels to maximize participation.
- After the initial drive, assess needs and consider making this a quarterly or semi-annual Rotary-led initiative in partnership with local organizations.
These projects are timely, address pressing local needs, and have clear avenues for collaboration with established organizations and event partners in Lake County.
1. Youth Development and Mental Health Awareness Initiative
Context:
Recent news highlights youth-focused events—such as the North Suburban YMCA's 2nd Annual KidPalooza and Woodlands Academy celebrating student leadership and achievement. There is also mention of a "coming of age memoir" discussing overcoming obstacles in Lake County, and a tragic news headline involving youth victimization (14-year-old kidnapped). These stories underscore both the vibrancy and challenges faced by local youth, from mental health needs to creating supportive, empowering spaces for learning and connection.
Potential Partners: - North Suburban YMCA (hosts KidPalooza and other youth events) - Woodlands Academy (local college-prep school) - Local schools (e.g., Stevenson High School, referenced in academic news) - Mental health organizations (e.g., Lake County Health Department, NAMI Lake County)
Next Steps: - Convene a planning meeting with representatives from the North Suburban YMCA, Woodlands Academy, and a mental health nonprofit to assess greatest needs (e.g., youth mental health, leadership programs, anti-bullying). - Develop interactive workshops or a youth summit hosted at the YMCA, focusing on mental health awareness, resilience-building, and leadership. Secure speakers who can share both local stories and resources. - Fundraise through a community event (e.g., a fun run, talent show, or silent auction) to support ongoing youth mentoring or counseling services. - Promote the event widely through Rotary channels, schools, and local media to maximize youth participation and parent engagement.
2. Community Health & Safety: Emergency Preparedness and Road Safety Program
Context:
A recent serious car accident on I-94 in Lake County (3 injured after a car rolled over) highlights ongoing concerns around transportation safety. The community has also faced public health alerts, such as the recall of baby formula due to infant botulism cases, and past local incidents involving fires and other emergencies. These incidents point to a community need for increased awareness and readiness regarding both road safety and emergency response.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Sheriff's Office and local police/fire departments - Local hospitals or health departments (Lake County Health Department) - Waukegan Tire (local business with vested interest in vehicle safety) - North Suburban YMCA or local schools as event hosts
Next Steps: - Initiate discussions with local police, fire, and health agencies to design a comprehensive community education day, perhaps “Lake County Safety Fair.” - Partner with Waukegan Tire to offer free car seat checks, basic vehicle safety inspections, and tire safety education, especially for families and new drivers. - Include workshops or demonstrations on first aid, infant CPR, fire safety, and emergency “go-bag” preparation. - Seek sponsorships or donations from other local businesses to fund giveaways (e.g., first aid kits, car safety tools). - Publicize the event in collaboration with local media and community organizations, and consider offering ongoing Rotary-led workshops in schools to sustain impact.
These initiatives directly support Rotary’s areas of focus in supporting education, community health, and youth, while leveraging local events and pressing recent needs.
1. Youth Safety and Wellbeing Initiative (Aligns with: Supporting Education, Growing Local Economies, and Peace and Conflict Prevention)
Context:
A recent news item from Lake County reported the kidnapping and abuse of a 14-year-old, highlighting urgent concerns around youth safety, abuse prevention, and support for vulnerable teens. High-profile incidents like these create community anxiety and demonstrate the need for prevention programs, education, and support for at-risk youth and their families.
Potential Rotary Partners:
- Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center
- Waukegan Public School District 60 & Gurnee’s Woodland District 50
- Waukegan and Gurnee Police Departments—Community Relations Divisions
- Youth Services organizations such as Youth & Family Counseling of Libertyville
- Local high schools and Parent Teacher Associations
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning group with representatives from youth services, law enforcement, and school administrators.
- Organize a public seminar series/workshops on child safety, abuse recognition and prevention, healthy relationships, and available resources.
- Develop an informational campaign (translated as needed) utilizing Rotary and partner communication channels.
- Apply for Rotary grants to fund youth counselors or sponsor after-school safe space programs in Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Host or co-sponsor a family resource fair featuring safety demonstrations, counseling resources, and personal safety training for teens.
2. Community Food Security & Nutrition Program (Aligns with: Fighting Disease, Saving Mothers and Children, Growing Local Economies)
Context:
Recent news references a recall and rise in cases of infant botulism tied to contaminated baby formula—a serious public health concern for families in Lake County, which already faces food insecurity in vulnerable populations. The closure of another Red Lobster in the area, in the context of rising food prices, highlights the growing food access challenges for both families and seniors.
Potential Rotary Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (Lake County Center, Park City)
- Lake County Health Department’s Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program
- Catholic Charities of Lake County
- Local pediatricians and health clinics
- Local businesses and grocery chains (Jewel-Osco, Aldi, Mariano’s)
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with the Northern Illinois Food Bank to host a Rotary-sponsored “Healthy Families Day,” distributing formula, diapers, and nutrition resources for infants and young children.
- Help organize and publicize safe formula education events for new parents, with pediatrician-led Q&A about nutrition and safe infant feeding.
- Fundraise for family nutrition kits and sustained support for local pantries—include culturally appropriate and baby-safe foods.
- Develop a volunteer drive for Rotary members to assist at food distribution events and at WIC resource centers.
- Launch a social media and print campaign in partnership with local health departments to raise awareness about safe foods, recent recalls, and where to get support.