Based on available recent news and community context for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL—although direct local headlines from December 31, 2025, are limited—ongoing needs and Rotary’s areas of focus still offer strong opportunities for impactful Rotary service and fundraising. Here are two tailored initiatives:
1. Community Health Literacy & Access Initiative
Context:
A recent Letter to the Editor (Dec 31, 2025) highlighted ongoing frustrations with the local health care system's inefficiencies, and referenced use of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. Such commentary, paired with persistent statewide and Lake County health disparities (including in Waukegan and Gurnee’s lower-income and immigrant populations), signals a major, ongoing need for clearer health navigation and greater health care literacy.
Potential Partners:
- NorthShore University HealthSystem at Vista Medical Center East (Waukegan)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Community Outreach
- Lake County Health Department
- Local libraries (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee)
Next Steps:
- Convene a small Rotary working group to meet with hospital and library representatives in January to assess needs and interest.
- Develop a plan for a series of “Navigate Your Care” forums in partnership with community health workers and insurance educators.
- Fundraise for translation services and printed guides to distribute at events and via partner libraries.
- Offer volunteer-run health insurance sign-up and Q&A days before open enrollment (October–December).
This initiative aligns with Rotary’s commitment to disease prevention/treatment and maternal and child health.
2. Youth Photojournalism & Civic Engagement Project
Context:
A local feature (Dec 31, 2025), “Photo Gallery: Daily Herald’s best drone photos of 2025,” highlights the power of storytelling and digital media. At the same time, many area students (especially in Waukegan and North Chicago) lack access to experiential learning and creative outlets, which are linked to academic and social success. Supporting media literacy and youth leadership addresses both education and civic engagement gaps.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools (Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School)
- Daily Herald Media Group
- Waukegan Arts Council
- College of Lake County communications or photography faculty
Next Steps:
- Reach out to school leadership and the Daily Herald photo team to explore collaborative youth workshops or contests.
- Apply for a Rotary District grant to fund cameras, field trips, or exhibition space.
- Launch a spring program (“Our Lake County: Youth in Focus”) where students learn from journalists, create photo-essays on local issues, and present their work at a community event.
- Create service opportunities for Rotarians as guest speakers, mentors, and judges, deepening Rotary’s ties to the area youth and public awareness.
This fulfills Rotary’s priorities in education, supporting the arts, and promoting community engagement.
Certainly! Based on the recent news from Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL—including stories of a family displaced by fire, ongoing digital equity initiatives, environmental volunteerism, an upcoming transition to electric buses, and economic transformation—here are two Rotary service or fundraising ideas aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. "Home Again: Emergency Relief Fund and Volunteer Drive" for Families Displaced by Fire
Context:
A recent article detailed the tragic loss suffered by the Hernandez family in Zion, whose home was destroyed by fire on Christmas Eve. Families facing sudden displacement often require both immediate relief (temporary housing, clothing, food) and longer-term support as they rebuild their lives.
Potential Partners:
- Quad County Urban League
- PADS Lake County (homeless services)
- Zion Fire Department
- Local faith-based organizations
- Social service agencies (e.g., Catholic Charities)
Next Steps:
- Form a Rotary task force to coordinate with local fire and social services to identify families in urgent need.
- Launch a community emergency relief fund, accepting donations (monetary and in-kind: clothing, gift cards, basic supplies).
- Organize volunteer workdays to help families sort debris, clean up, and transition to new housing.
- Host a fundraiser (e.g., benefit dinner or online auction) with all proceeds supporting affected families.
- Establish a rapid-response protocol with partners for future emergencies, ensuring a sustainable, scalable framework.
2. "Connect Lake County: Digital Equity Device Drive & Training Clinics"
Context:
Lake County is seeking to extend its digital equity push into and beyond 2026, acknowledging how “everything is online” and the critical need for internet access and devices—especially for low-income, elderly, and immigrant communities.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Digital Equity Task Force
- Local libraries (Waukegan, Gurnee)
- Schools and PTAs
- PCs for People (device refurbishment non-profit)
- Local tech companies
- Community centers and immigrant organizations
Next Steps:
- Organize a Rotary-sponsored device donation drive (laptops, tablets, Wi-Fi hotspots), with collection points at local businesses and partner sites.
- Partner with "PCs for People" or similar organization to refurbish donated tech for distribution.
- Recruit and train Rotary volunteers to host digital literacy workshops at libraries and community centers, focusing on skills like online job search, remote health appointments, and digital safety.
- Seek grant funding or business sponsorships to purchase low-cost new devices or pay for software/licenses.
- Publicize the effort via local media and partner networks to maximize reach and impact.
Both projects directly address urgent and ongoing community needs, align with Rotary’s areas of focus (community health, basic needs, economic/community development, and education/digital inclusion), and build partnerships for greater impact.
1. Lake County Academic Achievement Fundraiser and Literacy Program
Context:
The recent victory of Visharad Sathish, a 12-year-old from Lake Forest Country Day School, at the Lake County Regional Spelling Bee highlights the strong academic talent and dedication among the youth in Lake County. Seventy-three schools participated, and the event underscored both the importance of academic enrichment and the support systems needed for students to excel. The spelling bee is guided locally by Ashley Whitaker (John Lewis Middle School in Waukegan) and Michael Karner (Lake County Regional Office of Education).
Potential Rotary Initiative:
Organize an annual Academic Achievement Fundraiser and Literacy Program to support students participating in spelling bees, academic competitions, and general literacy initiatives in Gurnee, Waukegan, and broader Lake County.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Regional Office of Education (Michael Karner, Courtney Curry) - Local schools (John Lewis Middle School, Lake Forest Country Day School, Matthews Middle School) - Local libraries - Parent-teacher associations - Youth leadership organizations (e.g., 4H, Boys and Girls Club)
Next Steps: - Convene a meeting with Michael Karner and Ashley Whitaker to discuss unmet needs (sponsorship for travel, prep materials, scholarships, event hosting). - Launch a fundraising campaign (spelling-bee-themed dinner, trivia night) with proceeds funding student travel to national competitions, study resources, and after-school literacy clubs. - Coordinate volunteers for tutoring and mentoring, leveraging Rotarians and older student/alumni participants. - Promote the program in local media and at school events to encourage ongoing youth participation and community support. - Organize a community “Words Matter Day” with spelling games, vocabulary stations, and reading challenges at local libraries or community centers.
Rotary Focus Areas: Education and literacy, youth development
2. Digital Equity Support Project
Context:
A recent local news item noted Lake County’s ongoing digital equity initiatives, with an expressed intent to further these efforts past 2026. As “everything is online,” digital access and literacy are increasingly vital for youth educational success and adult engagement in the workforce. Waukegan, Gurnee, and surrounding communities continue to face disparities in reliable internet access and access to current technology—barriers to youth achievement demonstrated during academic competitions, remote learning, and extra-curricular preparation.
Potential Rotary Initiative:
Launch a “Bridge the Gap” Digital Equity Project focused on providing resources (devices, internet access, digital literacy workshops) to students and families in underserved areas, supporting both academic pursuits (e.g., spelling bees) and daily learning needs.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Regional Office of Education (Technology Services division) - Area school districts (District 50, District 60, etc.) - Local internet providers (Comcast, AT&T, local ISPs) - Public libraries and computer labs - Community nonprofits such as Mano a Mano, YWCA Lake County
Next Steps: - Connect with the Lake County CIO/technology coordinator to assess digital needs by school district or census tract. - Organize a device drive (collect and refurbish laptops, tablets) and raise funds to subsidize internet access for low-income families. - Partner with libraries to host digital literacy workshops for students and parents, emphasizing safe, effective online learning and research skills useful for academic competitions. - Publicize the program to reach families in need and recruit Rotary volunteers to serve as tech mentors. - Track impact by gathering data on participant access, engagement, and academic outcomes.
Rotary Focus Areas: Education and literacy, community and economic development, supporting youth and families
These two projects directly address demonstrated community needs in academic enrichment and the foundational digital access required for modern learning.
1. Rotary Food Drive and Resource Fair in Partnership with Local Pantries
Context:
Recent local news highlighted a significant spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, which includes those serving Lake County communities. This reflects rising food insecurity in Gurnee, Waukegan, and the surrounding area. Local news also mentions ongoing community events and gatherings, showing a culture of civic engagement that Rotary could amplify with a visible, collaborative project.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan)
- Avon Township Food Pantry (Grayslake area)
- Local schools (such as Grayslake North and Central, or Waukegan public schools) for student volunteers
- Community businesses (e.g., Emil’s Tavern, The Vine, Mindsee.it) as donation/collection points or sponsors
Next Steps:
- Reach out to local pantry managers and finalize a coordinated date for a Spring/Summer food drive to address increased need outside peak holiday seasons.
- Plan combined food collection at public events (leveraging the Rotary presence at, for example, the DeStash Bash or BINGO nights).
- Organize a “Community Resource Fair” at the food distribution event, with booths for health screenings, SNAP/WIC signups, and financial literacy workshops (possibly in partnership with Mindsee.it and local health clinics).
- Develop a press release and digital campaign with local news partners (Patch, local Facebook groups) to maximize awareness and participation.
- Recruit volunteers from Rotary, local schools’ National Honor Society or service clubs, and coordinate sign-ups/logistics.
2. Environmental Youth Leadership Project: Snow Day & Parks Restoration
Context:
Recent news shows active community engagement around seasonal weather (e.g., snowman building, snow photo sharing), plus ongoing events at community centers and parks. There is an opportunity post-winter for a Rotary-led youth project focusing on environmental restoration—cleaning, replanting, and enhancing public spaces affected by severe winter weather. This aligns with both Rotary’s environment and youth areas of focus and leverages the popularity of parks and public spaces in Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Forest Preserves District
- Village of Gurnee, City of Waukegan, and Grayslake Parks & Recreation Departments
- Local high schools’ eco-clubs or student council (Grayslake North/Central, Waukegan High, Gurnee schools)
- Mindsee.it for incorporating educational content or youth workshops on environmental stewardship
Next Steps:
- Contact parks/forestry officials to identify priority sites for spring debris clean-up, pollinator garden installation, or tree planting.
- Launch a “Rotary Snow to Grow” initiative—an event combining winter fun (like a snow sculpture contest) with sign-ups for a Spring Restoration Day.
- Secure youth engagement by offering leadership credits/certificates or scholarship competition for participants who take an active role.
- Source tools, supplies, and possible sponsorships (engage with local hardware stores, Mindsee.it, local artisans from the DeStash Bash for upcycled materials).
- Publicize through Patch, school communication channels, and community centers.
- Debrief post-event, share impact stories/photos with the community, and look to make this an annual tradition.
By focusing on food insecurity and environmental restoration involving youth, the Rotary can address urgent needs while fostering leadership and long-term resilience in the Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County area.
Certainly! Based on the regional news and community context for Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus:
1. Addressing Youth Mental Health and Wellness in Lake County Schools
Context:
Recent regional trends, including reports from local school districts (notably Waukegan and Gurnee) and mental health professionals in Lake County, show a marked increase in youth mental health challenges since the pandemic. This aligns with national statistics indicating anxiety, depression, and social disconnection among students. Local organizations such as the Lake County Health Department, NAMI Lake County, and school districts have voiced the need for expanded support and programming.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (Superintendent: Dr. Michael Karner)
- Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 and Gurnee School District 56
- NAMI Lake County (CEO: Becca Lacerna)
- Youth Service Bureau of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Convene an initial meeting with school administrators and NAMI representatives to assess current gaps in mental health support and programming.
- Design a service project like a “Youth Wellness Fair” or launch evidence-based mental health workshops for students and parents.
- Secure funding or in-kind donations (e.g., healthy snacks, educational materials).
- Mobilize club members to volunteer at events, help lead mindfulness activities, or coordinate guest speakers and wellness professionals.
- Consider a fundraising event such as a “Rotary Wellness Run/Walk” with proceeds dedicated to school-based wellness initiatives.
2. Community Sustainability and Environmental Education Initiative for Lake County Families
Context:
Lake County and its municipalities, including Gurnee and Waukegan, have emphasized environmental stewardship and sustainability in recent city planning meetings. There is heightened concern among residents about waste reduction, water conservation, and access to healthy food, especially after the popularity of local farmer’s markets and community gardens. Recent artisan and community markets (e.g., Superbowl & Sweethearts Market, DeStash Bash) demonstrate growing interest in sustainable local economies.
Potential Partners:
- SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County, IL)
- Lake County Forest Preserves District (Director: Ty Kovach)
- Gurnee Park District and Waukegan Park District
- Local farmers and artisans (e.g., businesses participating in DeStash Bash, Valentine Markets)
Next Steps:
- Organize a “Rotary Green Day” in partnership with SWALCO and the Park Districts, featuring educational booths on recycling, upcycling (possibly led by DeStash Bash artisans), rain barrel workshops, and composting demonstrations.
- Launch a fundraising campaign or grant drive to establish or support existing community gardens in underserved areas.
- Involve youth—through schools and scout troops—to participate in tree planting, clean-up events, or garden installations.
- Publicize the events via partnerships with local event organizers and social media to encourage broad community participation.
- Follow up by establishing a Rotary “Green Team” to lead ongoing sustainability projects throughout the year.
These opportunities align with Rotary’s focus on community health, education, youth services, and the environment, forging partnerships with schools, local governments, nonprofits, and businesses for maximum impact.
1. Substance Use Awareness and Recovery Support Initiative
Context:
Recent news highlights a continued concern in Lake County regarding substance use, with features on Nicasa Behavioral Health Services and the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board, both offering support and treatment services. Growing need for community engagement and education on substance use recovery has been identified.
Potential Partners: - Nicasa Behavioral Health Services: Established provider of prevention, counseling, and recovery services. - Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board: Actively funding and supporting local mental health initiatives. - Local law enforcement: For safety, prevention programs, and awareness. - Schools and youth organizations in Gurnee, Waukegan, and surrounding communities.
Next Steps: - Contact Nicasa and the Vernon Township Board to discuss collaboration on a substance use awareness event or ongoing support group series. - Organize an educational campaign (workshops in schools, community centers, and churches) to reduce stigma and connect residents to local resources. - Host a fundraising event (such as a Recovery Walk, Dinner, or Benefit Concert) to support treatment scholarships or expand youth outreach. - Work with local media to highlight personal recovery stories and resources available, increasing community engagement.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community Health, Disease Prevention and Treatment, Youth.
2. Environmental Sustainability: Community Recycling and Green Education Program
Context:
Lake Forest recently released recycling guides for Christmas tree disposal, signaling ongoing community interest in effective recycling and sustainability efforts. As landfill concerns and climate awareness grow, demand for robust, hands-on environmental initiatives is rising in Lake County.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Forest Preserves: To provide expertise and possible event venues. - Local municipalities’ Public Works Departments: Collaborate on logistics for recycling drives. - Schools (Woodlands Academy, local elementary and high schools): Student engagement and environmental education projects. - Scout troops and youth volunteer organizations.
Next Steps: - Organize a county-wide “Green Spring Clean” event featuring electronics, hazardous waste, and general recycling collection, with convenient drop-off sites in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake Forest. - Develop environmental education sessions and workshops for area youth, leveraging partnerships with schools and Scouts. - Launch a “Tree for the Community” campaign, using fundraising proceeds to plant native trees in under-served areas or parks, possibly in tandem with annual holiday tree recycling. - Publicize successes and encourage continued recycling through Rotary communications and local news platforms.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Environment, Community Development, Education, Youth.
1. Mental Health & Crisis Response Support with Gurnee Police Department’s CARE Team
Context:
The Gurnee Police Department has recently launched the CARE (Crisis Assistance & Response Engagement) Team, aimed at innovatively supporting mental health and crisis situations within the community. Growing mental health concerns, post-pandemic stress, and a rise in crisis calls highlight a pressing local need for broader awareness, resources, and public support.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department (CARE Team: direct collaboration and program insight)
- Lake County Mental Health Coalition
- Local hospitals/health providers (e.g., Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital)
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Lake County
- Local youth organizations and schools (for preventative education and resources)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Gurnee PD’s CARE Team to discuss immediate needs and opportunities for volunteer, fundraising, or awareness-building partnerships.
- Organize a community forum or educational event on mental health first aid, crisis de-escalation, and available CARE Team services—Rotary could provide funding, organize logistics, and engage volunteer facilitators.
- Fundraise for specific needs: for example, helping to supply sensory kits for officers, mental health resource print materials for distribution, or supporting additional counseling sessions for youth in crisis.
- Launch a campaign sharing local stories and resources, in collaboration with police and mental health partners.
- Evaluate opportunities to support expansion of similar programs in Waukegan and other parts of Lake County.
2. Rotary Youth Initiative & Education Support with Local Organizations (Spotlight: Mindsee.it, Area Schools)
Context:
Education remains a Rotary area of focus, and there is ongoing need for supplemental educational support, especially for children facing learning challenges or those hampered by factors like food insecurity, trauma, or inconsistent school attendance—issues exacerbated by recent local reports of child starvation and mental health emergencies (as referenced in Libertyville incidents). Mindsee.it, highlighted as a local tutoring program, represents innovative partners in this area.
Potential Partners:
- Mindsee.it (featured tutoring and empowerment program)
- Community school districts in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County
- Lake County Regional Office of Education
- Parent/teacher organizations
- Local businesses and civic organizations interested in youth empowerment
Next Steps:
- Connect with Mindsee.it and local school officials to assess the highest impact areas (e.g., after-school program funding, student mentoring, scholarship opportunities for families in need).
- Organize and promote a Rotary-sponsored “Education Success Night” or tutoring fair, where families can connect with resources and sign children up for free or subsidized programs.
- Raise funds to support: scholarships for Mindsee.it participants, classroom supplies for under-resourced students, or educational workshops for parents on supporting learning at home.
- Develop a Rotary mentorship program, pairing adult Rotarians with area youth for both academic and life skills guidance, leveraging Mindsee.it’s techniques in the framework.
- Publicize and replicate successful pilots in additional Lake County communities, inviting school counselors and social workers as referral partners.