1. Youth Wellness and Bullying Prevention Initiative (Community Health, Youth/Education)
Context:
A recent feature, "The Plague," centers on adolescent cruelty at a water polo camp, spotlighting the ongoing challenges of bullying, exclusion, and mental health among local youth. This resonates with broader national trends and is highly relevant given recent increases in reported bullying incidents and growing mental health concerns among teens in Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan.
Potential Partners:
- Local Schools: Warren Township High School (Gurnee), Waukegan High School
- Lake County Health Department, Youth and Family Services
- Lake County YMCA and Area Park Districts
- Community mental health organizations such as NAMI Lake County
- Local youth sports camps and clubs
Next Steps:
- Convene a listening session with school counselors and athletic directors to assess specific needs and readiness for partnership.
- Design a service project or series of interactive workshops for middle and high school students focused on empathy, bystander intervention, and mental resilience, utilizing evidence-based anti-bullying resources.
- Organize a “Youth Wellness Day” combining physical activities (e.g., sports clinics, water polo demonstrations) and mental health education, inviting local experts and motivational speakers.
- Apply for a Rotary District Grant to support resource materials and speaker fees.
- Engage parents and coaches via informational sessions, emphasizing community-wide support and sustainable impact.
2. Voter Education and Civic Engagement Campaign (Education, Community Development)
Context:
The Daily Herald Editorial Board highlights renewed discussion around ranked choice voting and the importance of strengthening democracy in Illinois. As 2026 brings these conversations back to the forefront, local residents—especially first-time voters and youth—could benefit from nonpartisan education and civic engagement opportunities, particularly in underrepresented areas like Waukegan.
Potential Partners:
- League of Women Voters Lake County
- Waukegan and Gurnee public libraries
- Local high school civics clubs and student government associations
- Municipal government officials and city clerks
- Minority advocacy organizations and adult education centers
Next Steps:
- Coordinate with the League of Women Voters to design and promote a public forum on ranked choice voting, ensuring accessible locations and bilingual materials.
- Host workshops in schools and libraries about voting rights, ballot navigation, and upcoming election changes, emphasizing inclusion of youth and new citizens.
- Launch a Rotary-sponsored scholarship essay contest on “The Power of Your Vote,” with entries focused on experiences or ideas to strengthen local democracy.
- Develop an outreach plan to recruit and train Rotary members and other community volunteers as nonpartisan poll workers or Democracy Ambassadors.
- Secure sponsorships or microgrant funding to provide transportation to polling places for seniors and those without access.
These projects closely align with Rotary’s focus on youth, education, and peacebuilding, while directly addressing immediate community conversations and needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County.
1. Digital Equity Initiative for Underserved Families
Context:
Lake County officials, including Digital Equity Coordinator Kim Lunt, are prioritizing digital access as “everything is online” and the county is pushing to extend digital equity efforts past 2026. Many families in Waukegan, Gurnee, and the broader Lake County region face barriers to reliable internet, devices, and digital literacy—hindering access to education, health services, job opportunities, and civic participation.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County government’s Digital Equity team (Kim Lunt)
- Local school districts (e.g., Waukegan CUSD 60, Gurnee School District 56)
- Public libraries in Gurnee and Waukegan
- Area nonprofits focused on family support (e.g., United Way of Lake County)
- Internet service providers with community support programs
Next Steps:
1. Contact the county Digital Equity Coordinator to identify current gaps and priority neighborhoods.
2. Organize a Digital Inclusion Fair: provide refurbished computers/tablets, WiFi hotspot signups, and short digital literacy workshops in community centers or schools.
3. Fundraise through a Rotary-hosted benefit (auction, virtual 5K, or community dinner), targeting local corporations and foundations interested in closing the digital divide.
4. Recruit Rotarians and local high school volunteers to offer ongoing weekly tech help “office hours” at public libraries.
2. Reading Access and Little Library Expansion Project
Context:
A Waukegan class recently donated “little libraries” to elementary schools to promote reading. The need for literacy support is ongoing—many local students lack regular access to a variety of books at home, impacting their reading development. Expanding this grassroots effort aligns with Rotary’s focus on education and supporting youth.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan CUSD 60 and individual elementary schools
- The class/teacher organizing the initial little library project (as cited by Steve Sadin, Lake County News-Sun)
- Local businesses for lumber/materials and sponsorships
- Public libraries
- Local scouting groups or vocational classes for library construction
Next Steps:
1. Connect with the teacher and student group behind the first “little library” donations to learn from their experience and build momentum.
2. Collaborate with school officials to identify more schools or parks in need of little libraries.
3. Launch a community book drive, engaging Rotary members, local churches, and businesses.
4. Organize volunteer days for constructing, painting, and installing new little libraries—with recognition for student and community contributors.
5. Plan an annual Rotary “Family Reading Festival” at newly installed locations, with guest readers, take-home books, and reading activities for kids.
Both initiatives directly address current, well-documented needs in Lake County and align with Rotary’s focus on education, digital access, youth, and community engagement.
1. Lake County Youth Literacy Support Initiative
Context:
A Lake County seventh-grader, Visharad Sathish, recently won the Lake County Regional Spelling Bee and will represent the region at the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. This event engaged students from 73 schools and highlights the importance of literacy, vocabulary, and academic achievement for area youth. Schools such as John Lewis Middle School in Waukegan (Ashley Whitaker, instructional specialist) and the Lake County Regional Office of Education (led by Michael Karner, superintendent, and Courtney Curry, assistant superintendent) played a significant role.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Regional Office of Education (Michael Karner, Courtney Curry) - Local schools including John Lewis Middle School, Lake Forest Country Day School - Waukegan Public Library and other area libraries - Local parent-teacher organizations - Area businesses interested in youth and literacy
Next Steps: 1. Contact the Lake County Regional Office of Education to discuss expanding academic competitions, spelling bees, and literacy-focused activities in partnership with Rotary. 2. Collaborate with local schools and libraries to sponsor “reading buddy” programs, provide books, and organize vocabulary workshops and spelling practice events, particularly for underserved students in Waukegan and Gurnee. 3. Plan and promote a Rotary Youth Literacy Fundraiser (e.g., a community spelling bee exhibition, book drive, or reading marathon event) with the proceeds supporting purchases of new books, dictionaries, and digital educational resources for local schools and libraries. 4. Engage media, parents, and local businesses in support and sponsorship, highlighting Rotary’s leadership in youth education.
2. "Little Libraries" and Community Reading Stations Expansion
Context:
A Waukegan class recently donated "little libraries" to elementary schools, with the goal of promoting reading across the community. This initiative addresses ongoing challenges in youth literacy and access to books—an especially salient need in areas like Waukegan and Gurnee, as highlighted by the excitement around spelling bees and academic achievement.
Potential Partners: - Waukegan Public Schools (contact local teachers and administrators) - Local student groups or classes that have led prior "little library" initiatives - Existing Rotary literacy projects teams - Public works or parks departments for identifying installation sites - Local authors, bookstores, and community arts organizations
Next Steps: 1. Reach out to the Waukegan class or school that started the "little libraries" project to offer Rotary involvement and support, possibly expanding the initiative to more neighborhoods or installing stations in public parks, housing complexes, and near bus stops. 2. Organize a Rotary-led book collection campaign, inviting community donations of new or gently used books in multiple languages to stock the little libraries. 3. Partner with city officials for site selection and installation, ensuring broad and equitable access across diverse communities. 4. Host periodic Rotary “book days” where volunteers read aloud with children, distribute books, and offer fun literacy activities, increasing visibility of Rotary’s commitment to education and community building. 5. Publicize and celebrate these efforts through local media and Rotary’s communication channels, encouraging further community participation and support.
Both opportunities directly address Rotary’s focus areas of education, youth development, and community engagement, and leverage current news and demonstrated needs in Lake County.
Context:
Recent reports indicate that Chicago-area food pantries, including those serving Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County, have seen a significant spike in visits over the past year. This points to increasing food insecurity in the community. The ongoing need is especially acute around holidays and the winter months, as families struggle with increased heating and living costs.
Potential Partners:
- Local food pantries such as the Northern Illinois Food Bank, PADS Lake County, and community pantries in Waukegan and Gurnee.
- Corporate sponsors (local supermarkets, Mindsee.it, regional businesses).
- Other civic clubs (Lions Club, Kiwanis), faith organizations, and schools for food drives.
Next Steps:
1. Reach out to primary food pantries in Gurnee, Waukegan, and the greater Lake County area to assess immediate needs and learn about gaps in their current services (e.g., kid-friendly food, period products, culturally specific items).
2. Organize a Rotary-sponsored food drive or fundraiser, perhaps themed around upcoming local events (like the Grayslake Giving Tree or holiday markets) to boost community engagement.
3. Promote the event in collaboration with community leaders and via Patch and local businesses.
4. Recruit Rotary volunteers and community members for collection, sorting, and distribution.
5. Consider a financial fundraising component, encouraging monetary donations for fresh produce and proteins, to supplement shelf-stable collected items.
Rotary’s focus on community health and fighting hunger aligns directly with this ongoing challenge. Additionally, educational outreach on nutrition and services for families could be a secondary service component.
Context:
Area schools such as Grayslake North have been in the spotlight for events and high-spirited activities, and youth involvement is on the rise. Additionally, local programs like Mindsee.it’s tutoring initiatives and increased reporting on youth sports and market events indicate a robust but potentially underserved community of young people. Simultaneously, increased pressures (school, home, social media) mean that mental health support is more crucial than ever.
Potential Partners:
- Mindsee.it (local tutoring and education innovator).
- Lake County schools (Districts 121, 56, Waukegan Public Schools).
- Youth sports leagues connected with Grayslake North and Central.
- Counseling and youth outreach programs through the Lake County Health Department.
Next Steps:
1. Collaborate with Mindsee.it and area schools to identify gaps in academic and mental health support services (e.g., free tutoring for underserved youth, group support for stress management, or scholarships for extracurricular participation).
2. Design and host a Rotary-led “Youth Empowerment Day”—offering academic workshops, sports clinics, and mental wellness seminars, potentially at a local school, community center, or during a scheduled community event (like DeStash Bash or holiday tourneys).
3. Fundraise or seek grants for scholarships or to subsidize ongoing youth programs (e.g., free tutoring, therapy sessions, or club memberships).
4. Engage with school counselors, coaches, and parent organizations to get buy-in and ensure programming meets real needs.
These efforts align with Rotary’s focus on supporting education and growing local economies by investing in the next generation.
Both opportunities address immediate needs and leverage local enthusiasm and partnerships for long-term community impact.
1. Project Idea: Lake County Youth Career & Life Skills Fair
Context:
Lake County (which includes Gurnee and Waukegan) continues to face significant challenges regarding youth employment opportunities, career readiness, and basic life-skills education. Local organizations and news outlets have reported ongoing concerns about teens and young adults lacking access to mentorship, resume-building, and job interview practice—especially in under-resourced Waukegan neighborhoods. Meanwhile, local businesses and artisan markets (such as those hosted in Spring Grove and Lindenhurst) present hands-on career and entrepreneurship examples.
Potential Partners:
- Waukegan Park District Youth Division
- Township High School District 121 (Gurnee/Warren)
- College of Lake County
- Local artisan market vendors (Spring Grove, Lindenhurst)
- Job Center of Lake County
- Greater Waukegan Development Coalition
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with local schools, the Job Center, and youth service groups to identify needs and desired workshop topics (e.g., resume clinics, game-based team-building, mock interviews, small business panels).
- Recruit Rotarians and local professionals to lead sessions.
- Coordinate with schools, youth centers, and publicize through Patch and community calendars.
- Secure a venue—consider a local park district facility or school gym.
- Organize hands-on exhibits (e.g., a mini market with local artisans discussing entrepreneurship).
- Seek in-kind sponsorship from area employers for supplies, refreshments, and participant gift cards.
- Evaluate post-event feedback to plan for annual repetition or expansion.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Basic education & literacy, youth development, economic development.
2. Project Idea: Community Health & Environment Volunteer Days—Winter Wellness Drive & Local Park Clean-up
Context:
The winter months bring increased social isolation, food insecurity, and health disparities, especially in lower-income parts of Waukegan and Gurnee. At the same time, local calendars highlight ongoing artisan markets and community gatherings, presenting opportunities for coordinated outreach. Local parks often see reduced maintenance during this season, presenting needs and chances for visible, positive impact.
Potential Partners:
- Warren Township Food Pantry (Gurnee)
- Northern Illinois Food Bank (serving Lake County)
- Waukegan Park District & Gurnee Park District
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Local artisan event organizers (e.g., KC’s Cabin, HitZ the Spot)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate a January “Wellness Drive” timed with local events (e.g., market days), collecting warm clothing, hygiene products, and non-perishable food.
- Organize volunteer sign-ups for winter clean-up at local parks and open spaces with the Park Districts and Forest Preserve.
- Publicize opportunities via Patch, social media, and at neighborhood artisan markets.
- Involve youth groups, Scout troops, and area congregations as active partners.
- Use proceeds from market vendor collaborations (a portion of sales or dedicated donation baskets) to purchase supplemental food or winter gear.
- Document the impact for Rotary and community awareness.
Rotary Areas of Focus: Community health & disease prevention, environment, supporting basic needs.
1. Youth Mental Health and Substance Use Support Initiative
Context:
Recent local news highlights a focus on substance use treatment and recovery support in Lake County, with organizations like Nicasa Behavioral Health Services being featured as leaders in this space. The Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board also emphasizes the availability of substance use support services. The ongoing challenges young people face around mental health and substance use remain a high priority in Lake County (including Waukegan and Gurnee), aligning closely with Rotary’s areas of focus in community health and supporting youth.
Potential Partners:
- Nicasa Behavioral Health Services: Primary provider for substance use, prevention, and recovery programs.
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board: Resource and connector for local mental health initiatives.
- Local schools and youth organizations: Including Woodland Academy, where recent youth honor society initiatives show interest in positive youth development.
Next Steps:
- Organize educational seminars or town halls in Waukegan, Gurnee, and surrounding communities that bring together Nicasa clinicians, local educators, and students/parents.
- Plan a Rotary-sponsored youth leadership and resilience workshop, potentially at a school or community center, featuring experts in mental health/substance use and peer leaders who can share positive choices and support networks.
- Fundraise for scholarships to assist youth who want to access counseling or prevention programs through Nicasa or similar providers.
- Reach out to Nicasa and the Mental Health Board to identify the greatest current needs and tailor Rotary support (e.g., fundraising for resource kits, providing volunteers for events, or supporting awareness campaigns).
2. Community Environmental Stewardship: Post-Holiday Recycling and Tree Replanting Initiative
Context:
With a focus on environmental sustainability and recent local coverage regarding Christmas tree recycling programs in Lake Forest and Lake County, there’s a seasonal need and opportunity to expand awareness and access to proper recycling—not just for trees but also for packaging and other holiday waste. Encouraging responsible waste management can help delay landfill expansion, restore habitats, and educate both youth and adults, aligning with Rotary's focus on the environment and education.
Potential Partners:
- Lake Forest's Public Works Department: Already running tree recycling programs and waste education.
- Local environmental groups: Lake County Forest Preserves, SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County), and school green clubs.
- Local businesses: Hardware/garden centers may sponsor or assist with collection/logistics.
Next Steps: - Coordinate a public “Recycle & Replant” event where residents can drop off their trees for recycling, and in exchange, receive tree saplings or native plants to promote reforestation and environmental stewardship. - Host educational activities for children and families about recycling, composting, and the impact of holiday waste, possibly in collaboration with schools or community centers. - Fundraise or secure sponsorships from local businesses to provide saplings and recycling materials, with recognition for business sponsors (e.g., Waukegan Tire as a visible community business). - Partner with local governmental and environmental agencies to amplify awareness, volunteer recruitment, and ensure responsible logistical support.
Both initiatives build on trending local needs, existing community momentum, and Rotary’s commitment to health, youth, and the environment.
1. Mental Health Community Outreach and Support Project (Aligned with Rotary Focus: Community Health, Disease Prevention, and Education)
Context:
The recent formation of the CARE Team (Crisis Assistance & Response Engagement) within the Gurnee Police Department highlights an urgent and growing focus on local mental health crises and the community’s need for greater mental health resources and education. Mental health crises impact not only individuals but also families and emergency response systems, with growing recognition for proactive engagement and education.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department (CARE Team)
- Local mental health providers (Lake County Health Department, NAMI Lake County)
- School districts and family resource centers
- United Way of Lake County
Next Steps:
1. Reach out to the Gurnee Police Department to establish a Rotary-CARE Team partnership for community education events—such as Mental Health First Aid workshops, QPR suicide prevention training, or youth-focused awareness sessions.
2. Organize panel discussions or town halls that bring together law enforcement, mental health professionals, and those with lived experience to reduce stigma and inform the public of resources.
3. Identify areas where Rotary funding or volunteers can support, such as sponsoring speaker honorariums, providing materials, or assisting with event logistics and outreach.
4. Coordinate with school districts to deliver age-appropriate mental health literacy programs for parents, students, and teachers.
5. Develop a calendar of events and secure venues (libraries, schools, community centers).
2. Food Security and Nutrition Support for Local Families (Aligned with Rotary Focus: Maternal and Child Health, Basic Education and Literacy, Community Development)
Context:
Recent news highlights tragic cases of child neglect and starvation—such as the sentencing of a mother for starving a seven-year-old child in Lake County—which underscores ongoing food insecurity and vulnerability among families. This situation calls attention to the need for enhanced food access, as well as nutrition and parenting education, throughout Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County.
Potential Partners:
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Lake County school districts and parent-teacher associations (PTAs)
- Local supermarkets and food retailers (Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s)
- Faith-based groups and social service agencies (Catholic Charities, local churches)
Next Steps:
1. Initiate discussions with the Northern Illinois Food Bank to expand weekend/school holiday meal packs or summer lunch programs in at-risk neighborhoods within Lake County.
2. Organize a fundraising event (e.g., “Taste of Lake County” or a community fun run) to benefit local food bank operations, emphasizing services for children and families.
3. Establish regular Rotary volunteer days to sort and distribute food or deliver meal packs to families identified by schools or social service agencies.
4. Partner with local nutritionists or chefs to host healthy cooking demonstrations and distribute recipe cards and resources on affordable, healthy meal preparation.
5. Evaluate the potential to provide supplemental parenting and life-skills workshops in conjunction with meal or food distribution, addressing holistic family needs.
These two initiatives address acute issues currently affecting Lake County residents, tap into Rotary’s areas of impact, and present meaningful opportunities for collaboration, fundraising, and sustainable community service.