Certainly! Based on the news and context from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County as of December 17, 2025, here are two Rotary service/fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus and local needs:
1. Intergenerational Holiday Music & Art Program for Developmental Disabilities Area of Focus: Community Health, Youth
Context:
A recent story highlighted fifth-graders from Western Avenue School performing a holiday concert for residents and staff at the Marklund Hyde Center, a facility for individuals with developmental disabilities. This joyful, intergenerational event demonstrates both a community appetite for youth engagement and the benefits of inclusive programming for people with special needs.
Potential Partners: - Marklund Hyde Center, Geneva (can expand to similar centers in Lake County) - Local school districts (e.g., Gurnee D56, Waukegan) - School music and art programs - Parent-teacher organizations
Next Steps: - Reach out to Marklund Hyde Center and similar organizations in Gurnee/Waukegan to assess ongoing programming needs and schedule. - Organize regular visits or virtual performances/workshops (music, art, crafts) by student groups throughout the school year, not just during holidays. - Seek volunteers (Rotarians, families, students) to assist and provide resources such as art materials, sheet music, or tech devices for virtual/in-person events. - Promote the initiative at community events to raise awareness and funds for adaptive arts resources and equipment for individuals with disabilities. - Highlight the intergenerational connection and advocacy for inclusion through local media for greater impact and engagement.
2. Native Plants & Pollinator Gardens Initiative Area of Focus: Environment, Education
Context:
The local "Home & garden calendar" reports ongoing events and meetings about native plants, prairies, sustainable landscaping, and the importance of supporting local habitats. This indicates a strong local interest in ecological restoration, which aligns with Rotary’s environmental goals and provides a hands-on educational opportunity.
Potential Partners: - Local garden clubs (referenced in the calendar) - Lake County Forest Preserves - Village environmental committees - Local schools and scout troops - Illinois Extension Master Gardeners
Next Steps: - Connect with local garden clubs and the Lake County Forest Preserves to select suitable public locations (schools, parks, libraries) for new or expanded pollinator/native plant gardens. - Organize “planting days” as service projects, inviting youth groups and families for environmental education sessions and hands-on habitat restoration. - Partner with schools to incorporate pollinator garden care into science curricula, engaging youth in environmental stewardship. - Pursue Rotary District and local business sponsorship to fund native plants, signage, and educational materials. - Plan public workshops on the value of native species, pollinators, and sustainable landscaping to increase community involvement and awareness.
1. Environmental Clean-Up & Waterway Restoration (Aligns with: The Environment)
Context:
The recent column on Lake County towns sharing Monsanto settlement funds references historic pollution from polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which have long-term ecological and health impacts, especially for communities along rivers, lakes, and wetland areas. Waukegan particularly has a legacy of industrial pollution on its lakefront. Community concern remains high regarding the health of local waterways and public green spaces.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Local environmental groups (e.g., Citizens’ Greener Evanston, Sierra Club Lake County)
- Schools/university environmental clubs
- Local businesses seeking to support ESG initiatives
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Waukegan Park District and Lake County Forest Preserves to identify high-priority polluted or neglected sites.
- Convene an informational meeting with local environmental organizations and city officials to coordinate efforts.
- Plan a “Rotary Restore & Reclaim Day” with hands-on clean-up, invasive species removal, and habitat restoration, targeting riverbanks and lakefront parks.
- Apply for Rotary district environmental grants and seek co-sponsorship from local businesses.
- Organize educational signage or a public event to raise awareness of pollution prevention and ongoing community responsibility.
2. Supporting Youth through Athletic & Academic Enrichment (Aligns with: Education, Youth Development)
Context:
Recent sports headlines spotlight IHSA’s football playoff expansion, continued highlights of high school and college athletics, and a general emphasis on youth achievement. While athletics gain attention, many youth in Waukegan, Gurnee, and across Lake County lack access to enrichment resources—especially in underserved areas where low-income families are less able to afford sports equipment, tutoring, or mentorship programs.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools and middle schools (Districts 60, 121, 56, 50)
- Waukegan to College (a nonprofit supporting underserved students)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County
- Local athletic associations and booster clubs
Next Steps:
- Partner with school districts and nonprofits to assess current needs for athletic equipment, tutoring, mentorship, or scholarship support.
- Organize a Rotary “Youth Sports & Success Fair”—combining used/new sports equipment drives with academic resource booths, mentorship sign-ups, and guest speakers on leadership and health.
- Offer mini-grants or sponsorships for teams and students facing financial barriers to participation in playoffs, tournaments, or academic competitions.
- Involve Rotary members as mentors/coaches and connect with local businesses for sponsorship opportunities.
- Monitor impact and share student success stories through Rotary and school district communication channels.
1. Rotary Student Academic Champions Night: Celebrating Educational Excellence and Supporting Lake County Youth
Context:
A Lake County seventh grader, Visharad Sathish, recently won a marathon spelling bee and will represent the area at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. Visharad’s achievement highlights both exceptional youth talent and the need for community support of academic excellence. Local students from 73 schools participated in sectionals, demonstrating widespread student engagement and potential.
Rotary Area of Focus: Education & Literacy, Youth Support
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts and the Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Parent-teacher organizations
- Local media (Lake County News-Sun)
- Businesses interested in youth development (bookstores, tutoring services)
- Sponsors for scholarships or travel assistance
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Regional Office of Education to identify outstanding student achievers from various academic competitions (spelling bee, science fair, math competitions, etc.).
- Organize a recognition event (“Academic Champions Night”) to honor students like Visharad, teachers, and supportive families.
- Incorporate a fundraising aspect—funds raised could support scholarships, travel expenses for students representing Lake County at national competitions, classroom literacy resources, or after-school tutoring programs.
- Publicize the event in collaboration with local media to inspire more youth participation in academic pursuits.
2. "Books & Buddies": Building Literacy and Mentorship Supports in Underserved Waukegan and Gurnee Communities
Context:
With hundreds of local students participating in spelling bees and academic competitions, there is clear enthusiasm for literacy, but disparities in resources may hinder broader success. Many schools in Lake County—particularly in Waukegan and parts of Gurnee—face challenges related to literacy rates and access to tutoring or academic enrichment outside regular school hours.
Rotary Area of Focus: Education & Literacy, Community Development, Supporting Youth
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Public Library and Warren-Newport Public Library (Gurnee)
- Local elementary and middle schools, especially those with Title I status
- Lake County schools’ reading and ELL (English Language Learner) coordinators
- Non-profit organizations committed to youth literacy (e.g., Bernie’s Book Bank)
- High school honor societies or colleges for possible student mentors
Next Steps:
- Connect with public libraries and neighborhood schools to assess needs for after-school tutoring/reading programs.
- Launch "Books & Buddies": a Rotary-driven reading mentorship, where Rotarians and vetted volunteers meet weekly with students for reading support, homework help, or friendly spelling bee practice.
- Coordinate book drives to supplement the program with new, diverse books for home libraries.
- Seek grant funding or local business sponsorship to cover materials, snacks, and transportation as needed.
- Track participation and reading outcomes to measure impact and build a case for expanding the program to other Lake County communities.
These service opportunities respond to current achievements and challenges in Lake County, leveraging Rotary partnerships and resources to inspire, recognize, and empower local youth.
1. Community Health & Hunger Relief: Food Pantry Support Initiative
Context:
Local news reports that Chicago-area food pantries, including those serving Grayslake, Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, have seen a significant spike in visits over the past year. Rising demand likely reflects economic challenges faced by area families and individuals, especially during the winter season and approaching holidays.
Potential Partners: - Northern Illinois Food Bank - COOL Ministries Food Pantries (Waukegan & Lake County) - Township and municipal governments in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake - Local grocery stores (Jewel-Osco, Mariano's, Aldi) - School districts for food drive promotion
Next Steps: - Connect with the Northern Illinois Food Bank and local pantry leaders to assess specific urgent needs (e.g., nutritious staples, hygiene items). - Organize a collaborative food and essentials drive across Rotary clubs in Grayslake, Gurnee, and Waukegan, leveraging local businesses and schools as drop-off and awareness partners. - Explore "Cash for Cans" fundraising to maximize bulk purchase power for pantries, using both in-person and online giving platforms. - Recruit club volunteers for sorting, packaging, and distribution, and consider a signature event (e.g., “Rotary Day of Service”) to draw community participation and media attention.
2. Youth Safety & Education: Holiday Traffic Safety and Youth Outreach
Context:
With the Lake County Sheriff’s Office ramping up patrols and participating in a statewide holiday traffic safety campaign through January 2026, there is a critical opportunity to engage youth and families on safe driving, substance abuse prevention, and pedestrian/bike safety—particularly as winter conditions and holiday travel increase accident risks.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Gurnee/Waukegan/Grayslake police departments - District 121 (Warren Township High School), District 56 (Gurnee), District 60 (Waukegan), District 127 (Grayslake North & Central) - Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) chapters - IDOT “Drive Sober” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns - Local insurance agencies willing to provide educational materials/sponsorship
Next Steps: - Meet with local law enforcement to identify gaps in existing youth safety education and discuss opportunities for Rotary to co-host school/community events or workshops. - Initiate an educational campaign—possibly a “Winter Safety Challenge”—featuring a combination of school assemblies, family resources, interactive demonstrations (e.g., impairment simulation goggles), and peer-led social media content. - Develop scholarship awards or incentives for student ambassadors who lead the campaign in their schools. - Pursue funding (including sponsorships and grants) to provide free car seat checks, bike helmets, or reflective gear for younger students, amplifying the safety message.
These opportunities align with Rotary's areas of focus on supporting education, growing local economies (by supporting at-risk families), community health, and safety.
Certainly! Based on current news and needs in Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, and aligning with Rotary’s areas of focus, here are two recommended service or fundraising projects:
1. Community Health Initiative: Winter Wellness Kits for Vulnerable Residents
Context:
Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, continues to face health disparities among vulnerable residents, particularly low-income families and seniors. As winter approaches and with seasonal illnesses such as flu and COVID-19 still impacting communities, local shelters and pantries (such as COOL Ministries in Waukegan and Northern Illinois Food Bank partners in Gurnee) are expressing needs for hygiene supplies, warm clothing, and health education resources.
Potential Partners:
- COOL Ministries (Waukegan)
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Lake County Health Department
- Local pharmacies (Walgreens, CVS)
Next Steps:
1. Collaborate with shelters/pantries to assess the most needed wellness kit items: hand sanitizer, masks, over-the-counter cold/flu medicine, warm socks/gloves, etc.
2. Organize fundraisers (perhaps tied to holiday events at College of Lake County or the Holiday Band Concert in Round Lake Beach) as donation drives for funds and supplies.
3. Coordinate assembly and distribution events, engaging Rotary members and local youth/students for volunteer opportunities.
2. Youth Enrichment & Literacy Support: “Books & Backpacks” Drive at College of Lake County Events
Context:
Following the success of cultural events like Ruth Page’s “The Nutcracker” at the College of Lake County (Dec 20–22), there is clear momentum for bringing families together. Local schools in Waukegan and Gurnee have reported pandemic-related learning loss, especially in reading. Many families lack resources to provide books and learning materials at home.
Potential Partners:
- College of Lake County (Grayslake Campus)
- United Way of Lake County
- Waukegan Public Library
- School District 121 and District 56 (serving Gurnee/Waukegan students)
- Local businesses as “backpack sponsors”
Next Steps:
1. Coordinate with College of Lake County’s event teams to host “Books & Backpacks” collection drives and distribution tables at their high-traffic December events.
2. Work with area schools and libraries to identify students/families most in need of literacy support.
3. Solicit sponsorships and donations from local businesses (in exchange for recognition at events) to fill new backpacks with age-appropriate books and school supplies.
4. Mobilize Rotary volunteers—including Interact or Rotaract clubs—to manage logistics, promote literacy, and staff the tables.
These projects directly address Rotary’s focus areas of community health and basic education/youth support, engage local partners, and build goodwill across Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County.
1. Rotary Community Safety and Health Initiative:
Context:
Recent local news reports highlight an increase in road incidents, such as the car flipping over on I-94, and a tragic car vs. pedestrian accident resulting in the death of a pet in Lake Forest. There is also heightened law enforcement activity for holiday traffic safety in Lake County. These events underscore community concerns around traffic and pedestrian safety, injury prevention, and public health education.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff's Office
- Lake Forest Police Department
- Local hospitals (e.g., Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital)
- Schools’ Parent-Teacher Associations
- Local businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire for vehicle safety checks)
Next Steps:
- Convene a roundtable with police, emergency responders, and local government officials to identify most urgent safety gaps (e.g., crosswalk visibility, distracted driving, child car seat checks).
- Organize a public Community Safety Day in partnership with schools and community centers. Activities could include:
- Pedestrian and bike safety education for children/youth
- Free car seat safety checks by certified technicians
- Distributing reflective or LED safety gear for pedestrians, dog walkers, and cyclists
- Hosting seminars about distracted driving and accident prevention
- Apply for Rotary District grants or seek sponsorships from local auto businesses.
- Measure success by event turnout, number of car seats checked, and feedback from participants.
Rotary Area of Focus: Disease Prevention and Community Health
2. Youth Development & Education Support Through KidPalooza Partnership:
Context:
The North Suburban YMCA is hosting its second annual KidPalooza, described as a family-friendly day focused on community engagement and youth activities. With increasing recognition of the importance of enrichment and community-building for local children and families, Rotary can amplify and enhance this event to expand educational opportunities and serve more youth, especially those from underserved parts of Lake County (e.g., Waukegan, North Chicago).
Potential Partners:
- North Suburban YMCA
- Woodlands Academy (noted for recent youth achievement and leadership awards)
- Local schools in Waukegan and Gurnee
- Youth-focused nonprofits (e.g., United Way of Lake County)
- Local businesses interested in sponsoring educational programming or activity booths
Next Steps:
- Reach out to North Suburban YMCA to co-sponsor the KidPalooza event and contribute Rotary volunteers.
- Offer to coordinate a “Rotary Youth Zone” at the festival, featuring STEM activities, reading corners, or mentorship opportunities led by Rotary members and youth leaders from Woodlands Academy.
- Fundraise for “Rotary Learning Kits” (books, STEM toys, art supplies) to distribute to children attending from low-income families.
- Publicize the collaboration widely and invite community participation through local media and school communications.
- Develop a feedback mechanism to assess educational value and identify ongoing needs for future programming.
Rotary Area of Focus: Education and Youth Development
Certainly! Based on the recent Lake County, Gurnee, and Waukegan news—with an eye toward Rotary’s core focus areas—here are two recommended Rotary service/fundraising opportunities, including context, partners, and actionable next steps.
1. Safe Roads & Holiday Traffic Safety Scholarship Fund (Area of Focus: Community Health & Youth)
Context:
Local news highlights that Lake County law enforcement is ramping up patrols for holiday traffic safety. Unfortunately, the recent report of a 44-year-old Mundelein man killed in a crash on Route 22 underscores the need for ongoing community education around road safety, particularly during the busy holiday season.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff's Office
- Local high schools (Waukegan, Gurnee, Libertyville, Mundelein)
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD-Chicago Chapter)
- Local insurance agents/brokers
Next Steps:
a. Convene a meeting with Lake County Sheriff’s representatives and school liaison officers to propose a collaborative "Safe Roads for Youth" campaign, incorporating school assemblies, informational events, and even simulated DUI experiences for students.
b. Develop a scholarship fund, sponsored by the Rotary Club, to be awarded annually to students who submit impactful projects (videos, essays) on traffic safety and responsible driving.
c. Partner with MADD and insurance agents for funding, materials, and volunteers.
d. Pitch the initiative to local school districts for their spring/summer health and driver’s ed curriculum.
e. Plan a launch event tied to National Youth Traffic Safety Month in May or during prom/graduation season.
2. Winter Preparedness & Neighbor Check-In Initiative (Area of Focus: Community Health, Supporting Vulnerable Populations)
Context:
Recent severe winter storms (highlighted by the “7-foot snowman” and “Winter Wonderland” shared by local residents) demonstrate both the fun side and the dangers of winter in Lake County. Older adults and vulnerable households face increased risks from cold, isolation, and power outages.
Potential Partners:
- Erie Family Health Centers (Waukegan and Gurnee locations)
- Local fire and police departments
- Senior centers and Meals on Wheels programs
- Faith-based organizations (e.g., Love INC Lake County)
Next Steps:
a. Coordinate with local health clinics and senior centers to identify at-risk individuals in need of wellness checks and winter supply kits (blankets, flashlights, groceries).
b. Organize a community “Winter Readiness Day” where volunteers assemble and deliver these kits, and train residents on winter safety and emergency contacts.
c. Work with schools and youth groups to make this an intergenerational project, pairing students with adults for wellness calls and snow-shoveling assistance.
d. Seek in-kind donations from local retailers (Jewel-Osco, Home Depot) and community foundations to assemble supply kits.
e. Promote the campaign to local media and online platforms to increase awareness and volunteer engagement.
Both initiatives address urgent local needs, create opportunities for Rotary visibility, and offer meaningful avenues for community engagement aligned with Rotary’s mission and areas of focus.