Based on recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL (December 25, 2025), as well as Rotary’s areas of focus, here are two actionable Rotary project recommendations tailored to current local themes and apparent community needs:
1. Youth Workforce Exploration & Apprenticeship Support Initiative
Aligned Rotary Focus: Education, Youth Development
Context:
A prominent job listing in the area highlights the upcoming application window for the IBEW Local 117’s Electrician and Telecommunications apprenticeship program. This opportunity could be unfamiliar or intimidating to many young people and marginalized groups in Lake County. Connecting local youth to these valuable, high-demand trades would support workforce development and foster economic equity.
Potential Partners: - IBEW Local 117 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) - Local High Schools (e.g., Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School in Gurnee) - College of Lake County Career Services - Youth mentoring or after-school programs (e.g., Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County)
Next Steps: - Contact IBEW Local 117 JATC to coordinate informational sessions for students and parents in early January. - Host a “Trade Career Exploration” event, possibly in partnership with local school districts, where apprentices, union reps, and current tradespeople discuss career paths and answer questions. - Organize a scholarship or stipend fund (through a Rotary fundraiser) to cover costs such as transportation, application fees, or work boots for applicants with financial need. - Provide mentoring by Rotarians in allied professions (engineering, business) to guide interested students through the process.
2. Community Health & Cancer Research Advocacy Fundraiser
Aligned Rotary Focus: Disease Prevention & Treatment, Community Health
Context:
A recent letter to the editor raises concerns about the uncertain future of federal funding for cancer research, underscoring both local worry and the national issue’s personal resonance. Rotary can mobilize support for local cancer patients and research, raising awareness—and vital funds—in a time of heightened anxiety over continued resources.
Potential Partners: - Local hospitals with oncology departments (e.g., Advocate Condell, Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan) - American Cancer Society (Lake County Chapter) - Gilda’s Club Chicago (serving Lake County residents) - Local businesses willing to sponsor or host events
Next Steps: - Convene a planning meeting with cancer center community liaisons to identify urgent needs among patients (e.g., transportation, treatment subsidies, support groups). - Organize a Rotary-led “Walk for Research & Hope” event, inviting community members to donate or find sponsors, with proceeds benefiting both patient support and cancer research. - Facilitate an awareness campaign with speakers, survivor testimonials, and educational sessions at local libraries, hospitals, and schools. - Encourage club members and the community to advocate for sustained research funding by organizing a letter-writing campaign to local and federal representatives.
These two proposals directly address prominent local news themes—youth workforce opportunities and community health advocacy—while aligning with Rotary’s mission and leveraging local resources and partnerships for lasting community impact.
Certainly! Based on recent Lake County news—including increased water emergencies at Illinois Beach State Park, the relevance of virtual schooling in Lake County, and broader issues of youth safety and education in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County—I recommend the following two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities:
1. Water Safety and Rescue Equipment for Illinois Beach State Park
Context:
The Lake County News-Sun reports a spike in water emergencies at Illinois Beach State Park, leading to frustration among local responders. The shoreline’s erosion, coupled with increased public use, makes water safety a growing concern. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on saving lives, community health, and supporting local responders.
Potential Partners:
- Illinois Beach State Park management
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office/Marine Unit
- Local fire departments
- Lake County Health Department
- Businesses with outdoor/sports interests
- Local high school and community swimming programs
Next Steps:
- Contact park officials and first responder agencies to identify immediate water safety needs (e.g., signage, life rings, rescue boats, community water-safety education).
- Organize a fundraising campaign (dinners, swimathons, or corporate partner matches) targeting needed equipment or safety classes.
- Collaborate on public awareness campaigns, including water safety workshops for youth and families.
- Seek possible grant funding (local foundations, Rotary International district grants).
2. Supporting Virtual Learning Access and Enrichment for Youth
Context:
The Illinois Virtual Schools & Academy supported over 6,000 students in 2024-2025, providing crucial educational access throughout Lake County. As online education persists, gaps remain for underprivileged students—especially in Waukegan and North Chicago, where access to devices, internet, and enrichment support can be limited.
Potential Partners:
- Illinois Virtual Schools & Academy (local contact: Steve Sadin, reporter, may provide introductions)
- Local school districts (Waukegan, North Chicago, Gurnee)
- Public libraries (Grayslake, Waukegan)
- Nonprofits: College Bound Opportunities, Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
- Corporate partners (AT&T, Comcast, local tech retailers)
Next Steps:
- Meet with administrators from Illinois Virtual Schools & Academy and local districts to assess technology and educational support gaps.
- Launch a device donation or fundraising drive for laptops/tablets and Wi-Fi hotspots.
- Organize virtual or in-person tutoring and homework help, drawing on Rotary volunteers and local college students.
- Explore partnerships for career-awareness webinars, youth leadership development, or coding camps.
- Publicize existing and new enrichment programs for families lacking digital resources.
Both projects respond directly to current, high-profile community needs and easily fit within Rotary’s focus areas including community health, education, and youth empowerment.
1. Project: Lake County Youth Academic Achievement & Literacy Initiative
Context:
Lake County seventh grader Visharad Sathish’s recent victory in the Regional Spelling Bee and his advancement to the National Scripps Bee highlights both the talent and opportunity among local youth. With 73 schools and hundreds of students participating, there is strong engagement but likely room for greater community support—especially for under-resourced students.
Rotary Area of Focus: Education and Literacy, Supporting Youth
Potential Partners:
- Local school districts and the Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Waukegan Library and Gurnee Public Library
- Parent-teacher organizations (PTOs)
- Local businesses and foundations (for sponsorship)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to the Lake County Regional Office of Education to discuss support or expansion of spelling bees and other academic competitions, particularly across underserved schools.
- Develop a scholarship or grant fund to help cover participation and travel costs for local winners (like Visharad Sathish), especially for families with financial need.
- Organize community “Literacy Nights” or Academic Fairs at local libraries, co-hosted by Rotary, showcasing participants, spelling contests, and career exploration for youth.
- Launch a mentorship or “word buddy” program where Rotarians and community volunteers tutor or mentor students interested in literacy, vocabulary, and academic competitions.
2. Project: Safe Driving and Youth Education Campaign
Context:
Recent local headlines report serious accidents, including one involving livestreaming while driving in Zion, Lake County. This points to an urgent community need for education on distracted driving, particularly among teens and young adults who are most likely to engage in phone use behind the wheel.
Rotary Area of Focus: Community Health and Safety, Supporting Youth
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office, local police departments (Gurnee, Waukegan, Zion)
- Local high schools and driver’s education programs
- Insurance agencies (e.g., State Farm local branches)
- Nonprofit organizations focused on road safety (e.g., Safe Kids Worldwide)
Next Steps:
- Contact Lake County law enforcement and local schools to offer partnership in delivering interactive presentations, workshops, and school assemblies focused on the dangers of distracted driving.
- Develop a student-led campaign or competition (such as a video PSA contest) about safe driving, with Rotary sponsorship and prizes to promote peer-to-peer advocacy.
- Host a community event or “Safety Day,” featuring simulation activities (such as driving simulators), informational booths, and testimonials from families impacted by distracted driving.
- Explore fundraising opportunities (such as a charity run/walk) to support scholarships for driving school participation for at-risk youth, paired with an awareness campaign.
These projects respond directly to recent news and local needs, and both fall clearly within Rotary’s areas of focus while enabling positive, visible impact across Gurnee, Waukegan, and the broader Lake County community.
Context:
A tragic fire in the Grayslake/Spring Grove area recently resulted in the death of an 86-year-old woman. Fires remain a serious risk for elderly residents, particularly those living alone or in older homes that might not have adequate smoke detectors or fire prevention measures. Many seniors may also have mobility or cognitive limitations that increase their vulnerability. Rotary’s focus on community health and supporting vulnerable populations can be directly applied here.
Potential Partners:
- Grayslake and Lake County Fire Departments
- Senior Services Associates of Lake County
- Local senior housing communities (e.g., The Village at Victory Lakes)
- American Red Cross (for smoke detector programs)
- Local businesses (donations of equipment/supplies)
Next Steps:
1. Contact local fire departments and senior service organizations to assess needs and determine areas with highest risk.
2. Organize a fire safety check and smoke detector installation day, targeted at seniors and those with mobility or cognitive issues.
3. Partner with the Red Cross and local hardware stores (like Ace Hardware in Grayslake) for supplies.
4. Recruit Rotary volunteers to help install detectors and distribute fire safety literature.
5. Arrange for fire department personnel or trained Rotarians to offer home fire safety presentations to community centers, senior clubs, and churches.
6. Consider a small fundraising event (possibly in collaboration with a business like The Vine) to fund equipment for families in need or to assist displaced fire victims.
Context:
Recent reports indicate a significant spike in food pantry visits throughout the Chicago area, including Lake County and neighboring Grayslake, pointing to increased food insecurity. The winter season and inflation related economic challenges are causing more families, including children, to struggle with nutrition. This aligns with Rotary’s focus on community health and support for families and youth.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Avon Township Food Pantry (Round Lake Park, serves Gurnee/Grayslake area)
- Local congregations (e.g., St. Gilbert, Joy! Lutheran Church)
- Area schools for “backpack” food programs
- Local grocery stores (Jewel, Mariano's) for food drives/sponsorship
Next Steps:
1. Reach out to Lake County food pantries to identify critical needs for winter (fresh produce, protein sources, hygiene supplies, etc.).
2. Organize a Rotary-led food and essential supplies collection drive at local businesses, schools, and community centers.
3. Plan a fundraising event (such as a trivia night at Emil’s Tavern or Team Trivia Wednesdays at Grayslake Village Center) to buy high-need items for pantries.
4. Partner with schools to identify students facing food insecurity and consider supporting a weekend “Backpack” program supplying food for kids to take home over weekends/holidays.
5. Promote volunteer opportunities for Rotarians at local pantries during high-traffic days.
6. Publicize Rotary’s involvement to encourage wider participation and community awareness.
Both initiatives will strengthen Rotary’s local impact, address urgent needs, and create lasting partnerships in Gurnee, Waukegan, Grayslake, and throughout Lake County.
Certainly! Here are two Rotary service and fundraising project ideas specifically tailored to current news and recent developments in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL. Each aligns with Rotary’s areas of focus, includes context, possible partners, and clear next steps.
1. Youth Mental Health and Wellness Initiative (Rotary Focus: Community Health, Youth)
Context:
Waukegan and broader Lake County have reported increased demand for youth mental health resources following a rise in teen anxiety, depression, and effects of social isolation, particularly post-pandemic. Local school districts and nonprofit organizations have publicized needs for expanded support, especially for under-resourced families.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Health Department
- District 121 (Warren Township High School, Gurnee) and Waukegan Public Schools
- Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center
- Youth Services of Lake County
- Local businesses (for sponsorship and in-kind donations)
Recommended Next Steps:
- Convene a Rotary task force in partnership with high school counselors and county mental health officials.
- Plan a Mental Health Resource and Education Fair for families and teens—hosted at a local high school or library—with workshops, speakers, and access to counseling resources.
- Seek funding or donations via a "Run for Resilience" 5K or community walk, securing sponsorships from local businesses.
- Offer Rotary-sponsored scholarships for youth or educators to attend mental health first aid training.
- Publicize the effort through local media, Patch calendars, and business partners.
2. Environmental Restoration & Community Green Spaces (Rotary Focus: Environment, Community Development)
Context:
Recent reports from Lake County Forest Preserves and local municipalities highlight ongoing flooding risks and stormwater management difficulties in Gurnee and Waukegan. The need for more green infrastructure, native plantings, and stormwater solutions is urgent to protect communities and improve public parks.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Village of Gurnee Public Works
- City of Waukegan Parks & Recreation
- Sierra Club – Woods & Wetlands Group
- Local garden centers (e.g., explore partnership with nearby Libertyville or Grayslake nurseries)
Recommended Next Steps:
- Collaborate with Lake County Forest Preserves to identify a park or retention area in Gurnee, Waukegan, or a high-needs neighborhood for a “Rotary Eco-Restoration Day.”
- Organize a volunteer event to remove invasive species, plant native trees and pollinator gardens, and install educational signage about local ecosystems and water conservation.
- Seek matching Rotary grants or coordinate a fundraiser (such as a “Garden Gala” event or plant sale) to buy native plants and supplies.
- Engage youth by inviting school science clubs and Scout troops to participate for service hours.
- Use local event calendars (Grayslake Patch, Village of Gurnee website) and community groups to recruit volunteers and promote the project.
Both projects make tangible improvements addressing local needs, leverage Rotary’s connections, and prominently serve community priorities.
1. Youth Empowerment & Arts: Supporting Music and Debate Programs
Context:
Recent news from Woodlands Academy highlights the chartering of a Tri-M® Music Honor Society chapter and successful participation in congressional debate—a testament to the community's engaged and talented youth. However, club activities, travel, instruments, and coaching often require supplemental funding or logistical support. Extending such arts and enrichment opportunities to underserved students in Waukegan and surrounding Lake County communities is crucial for equity in education, aligning with Rotary's focus on supporting education and youth development.
Potential Partners:
- Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
- Local public schools in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Lake County
- Tri-M® Music Honor Society national organization
- Community music educators or local arts organizations
- Rotary Club Youth Committees
Next Steps:
- Contact Woodlands Academy’s music and debate advisors to gauge needs and interest in regional partnerships or mentorship programs.
- Collaborate with local public schools to identify students who would benefit from expanded music/debate opportunities.
- Plan a fundraising concert or “Youth Showcase” featuring local school talent, with proceeds used for club equipment, travel, and scholarships.
- Organize volunteer opportunities for Rotarians to mentor students in music, debate, or public speaking.
- Secure local sponsors (e.g., Waukegan Tire, Episcopal Preschool) for event support or matching donations.
2. Community Health & Substance Use Support: Raising Awareness and Resources
Context:
Multiple news items highlight the efforts of Nicasa Behavioral Health Services and the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board to address substance use and recovery, reflecting ongoing local needs for treatment resources, education, and stigma reduction—especially as behavioral health is an urgent post-pandemic concern across the county.
Potential Partners:
- Nicasa Behavioral Health Services
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- Local healthcare providers (e.g., Lake County Health Department)
- North Suburban YMCA (hosts community events like KidPalooza)
- Area businesses for sponsorship and outreach
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Nicasa and the Mental Health Board to identify current needs: e.g., funding gaps, volunteer support, or event collaboration.
- Organize a community forum or wellness fair, potentially in partnership with the North Suburban YMCA’s KidPalooza, that provides education on substance use prevention, available local treatment options, and general wellness.
- Develop and distribute resource kits to local schools, libraries, and family centers, listing services and emergency contacts.
- Arrange a Rotary fundraiser (e.g., charity 5K, dinner, or silent auction) with proceeds benefiting Nicasa’s programs.
- Enlist Rotarian volunteers to assist with outreach, event planning, and delivery of educational sessions.
These initiatives directly address urgent local needs in education, youth empowerment, and community health, leveraging Rotary’s network and aligning with its core focus areas.
1. Rotary Support for Gurnee Police Department’s CARE (Crisis Assistance & Response Engagement) Team
Context:
The Gurnee Police Department has recently launched the CARE Team—a mental health crisis response unit. With increasing demand nationwide for innovative approaches to public safety and mental health, the CARE Team aims to assist individuals in the community experiencing mental health crises, connecting them with resources and reducing the likelihood of escalation or incarceration. Rotary’s focus on community health and peace aligns well with supporting mental health initiatives.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department CARE Team
- Lake County Health Department—Behavioral Health Division
- Local mental health nonprofits such as NAMI Lake County
- Youth and family services organizations
Next Steps:
- Meet with CARE Team coordinators to identify urgent material and volunteer needs (e.g., funding for outreach kits, community education sessions).
- Organize “Mental Health First Aid” training workshops for community members, facilitated in partnership with licensed professionals.
- Fundraise for support items—such as comfort kits for individuals in crisis or resource guide printing.
- Promote community forums to destigmatize mental health challenges and connect Rotary’s network with CARE Team outreach.
- Evaluate ongoing partnership for sustainability and measurable impact.
2. Rotary Youth Empowerment & Educational Support—Partnering with Mindsee.It
Context:
Mindsee.It, a local tutoring program featured in the area, is noted for its innovative educational approaches for children, helping them to “achieve the impossible.” This aligns directly with Rotary’s emphasis on education and youth development, especially when so many local families face learning disruptions or disparities.
Potential Partners:
- Mindsee.It tutoring program
- Local school districts (e.g., Gurnee District 56, Waukegan Public Schools)
- Parent/teacher organizations
- Youth mentoring organizations
Next Steps:
- Arrange meetings with Mindsee.It to co-develop a Rotary-sponsored scholarship or subsidized tutoring slots for students in need, prioritizing those from underserved backgrounds.
- Organize a literacy or STEM fair in partnership with local schools and the Mindsee.It team, featuring skill-building workshops for youth and families.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers to serve as reading buddies or math coaches after school.
- Conduct needs assessment surveys among local parents and school staff to determine priority areas (literacy, numeracy, homework help, enrichment).
- Secure funding via a Rotary fundraiser or grant application dedicated to education equity.
By focusing on mental health support and youth empowerment, the Rotary Club can make a tangible difference in Lake County through targeted partnerships and sustainable action.