Here are two Rotary project opportunities based on recent activity and ongoing needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL:
1. Community Health & Safety: Train Safety Education Initiative
Context:
A recent news story highlighted the construction of a major railroad underpass and realignment (the “shoo-fly”) in Barrington, Lake County. With increased rail and construction activity and the presence of busy commuter and freight lines through Gurnee and Waukegan, safety risks—especially among youth and families near tracks—are heightened. Accidents and safety incidents related to trespassing or lack of awareness continue to be a concern in the area.
Potential Partners:
- Canadian National Railway (site of the construction and a potential funding/support source)
- Local school districts (Gurnee School District 56, Waukegan Public Schools)
- Lake County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement
- Operation Lifesaver (national rail safety organization)
Next Steps:
- Reach out to Canadian National’s community relations division to explore grant funding or in-kind support for materials.
- Coordinate with school superintendents to offer free rail safety assemblies or workshops this spring.
- Invite Operation Lifesaver trainers to conduct sessions for students, parents, and educators.
- Plan a “Safe Tracks Day” event for families, with local police and first responders, providing demonstrations on rail crossing safety, and distribute printed safety materials.
- Fundraise through a community walk/run along a safe trail (not on tracks), raising awareness and funds for ongoing safety initiatives.
2. Youth & Education: STEM Career Exposure Expansion
Context:
The large-scale infrastructure project spotlights local careers in engineering, construction, rail logistics, and urban planning—fields in which Lake County youths, particularly in under-resourced areas like Waukegan, are often underrepresented. There is an opportunity to tie this real-world event to increased STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) learning and career exposure for local students, aligning with persistent community needs for workforce development and youth engagement.
Potential Partners:
- Canadian National/contractors involved in the underpass project (community engagement/employee volunteering)
- College of Lake County (STEM faculty, career services)
- Local high schools’ STEM clubs (Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School in Gurnee)
- Waukegan and Gurnee Public Libraries (outreach and meeting space)
Next Steps:
- Coordinate field trips for middle and high school students to visit the underpass construction site, including meet-and-greets with engineers and safety personnel.
- Organize a “Careers in Infrastructure and Rail” speaker series at libraries or schools, featuring guest speakers from CN, contractors, and College of Lake County.
- Seek Rotary or CN mini-grants to provide classroom STEM kits, aiming to inspire hands-on learning around transportation, engineering, and safety.
- Pilot a mentorship program linking professionals in rail/engineering fields with interested students for ongoing guidance and support.
- Publicize these opportunities through school newsletters, the Lake County News-Sun, and community social media.
These initiatives harness current local events, meet key Rotary focus areas (community health & safety, education, youth), and offer clear engagement opportunities with project partners.
1. Digital Literacy Tutoring & Device Drive for Lake County Families
Rotary Areas of Focus: Education, Community Development
Context:
Lake County is working to extend its digital equity efforts, highlighting the need for widespread access to devices and digital literacy skills (“Digital Equity Coordinator Kim Lunt said the modern era is built around digital access and...”). Many households, particularly in Waukegan and nearby communities, lack resources for adequate computer access and digital training. Closing this gap is vital for education, employment, healthcare access, and civic engagement.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Digital Equity Initiative (Kim Lunt, Coordinator)
- Waukegan Public Library
- Gurnee and Waukegan schools (District 60, District 121)
- Local tech businesses (Best Buy, Verizon) for device donations
- Nonprofits like PCs for People
Next Steps:
- Meet with Kim Lunt and the Lake County Digital Equity team to identify specific local needs.
- Organize a “Device Drive” (laptops, tablets, hotspots) in partnership with local tech retailers and schools.
- Recruit Rotary members and local students as digital literacy tutors for monthly workshops at libraries and community centers.
- Seek grant funding from Rotary District and technology corporations for equipment purchases.
- Promote the program at school and library events, ensuring outreach to underserved families.
2. Community Green Day: Battery & Holiday Tree Recycling, Nature Preserve Restoration
Rotary Areas of Focus: Environment, Community Health
Context:
Lake County now requires proper battery disposal by law, a move intended to prevent fires and reduce environmental harm. Additionally, residents need alternatives for Christmas tree disposal (as landfilling is prohibited), and there’s momentum around nature preserve restoration (e.g., the “secret” Highland Park garden, part of the Lake County Forest Preserve District). Combining these community needs presents an opportunity to educate, mobilize, and serve.
Potential Partners:
- SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County)
- Lake County Forest Preserves
- Local municipal public works departments (Waukegan, Gurnee)
- Highland Park nature preserve stewards
- Youth groups (school eco-clubs, Scouts)
- Battery and electronics recycling companies (Call2Recycle)
Next Steps:
- Connect with SWALCO and the Lake County Forest Preserves to coordinate logistics and select event sites.
- Organize a spring “Community Green Day,” offering:
- Drop-off for batteries and electronic waste with recycling partners.
- Christmas tree chipping and mulch giveaways, paired with education on sustainable disposal.
- Volunteer opportunity to restore a local nature preserve or pollinator garden (removing invasive species, planting natives).
- Develop publicity materials for schools, parks, community centers, and Rotary networks.
- Recruit volunteers, especially youth groups, to build intergenerational connections and environmental awareness.
Rotary Service and Fundraising Opportunities for Lake County, Gurnee, and Waukegan, IL
Context:
The recent Lake County Regional Spelling Bee, featuring remarkable participation—including winner Visharad Sathish and long-time involvement from 73 schools—demonstrates strong community engagement in academic enrichment. This event underscores not only the community’s value on literacy, but also the gap in resources and encouragement for kids beyond such prestigious competitions. Additionally, the donation of ‘little libraries’ by a Waukegan class hints at a widespread desire to promote reading and literacy access.
Potential Partners:
- Lake County Regional Office of Education (Superintendent Michael Karner, Assistant Superintendent Courtney Curry)
- Local middle and elementary schools, including John Lewis Middle School in Waukegan and Matthews Middle School in Island Lake
- Local public libraries
- Literacy-focused nonprofits, such as Reading Power or Bernie’s Book Bank
- PTAs and youth organizations (e.g., local Boys & Girls Clubs)
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning committee with reps from the above organizations.
- Design a Rotary-sponsored annual “READ & LEAD” event with spelling bees, reading challenges, and prizes, emphasizing participation and improvement (not just competition winners).
- Fundraise for mini-grants to supply classroom libraries, purchase books (especially for Title I schools), or cover travel/supplies for students entering academic competitions.
- Organize mentorships or tutoring with Rotarians and community volunteers to foster daily reading habits.
- Publicize the initiative alongside stories like Visharad’s, to motivate and highlight local student achievement.
Context:
Lake County schools are abuzz with academic activity and innovation, but environmental challenges—including new state battery disposal laws—impact youth and families daily. Local initiatives (as highlighted by school projects and regulatory news) point to a need for more sustainability education and hands-on engagement. Empowering students through environmental projects connects Rotary’s focus on environment, youth, and education.
Potential Partners:
- School “Green Teams” and science clubs
- Lake County government’s environmental services
- Illinois Extension/Lake County Master Gardeners
- Local businesses (Home Depot, local nurseries) for sponsorship and supplies
- Environmental advocacy groups (e.g., Sierra Club Lake County Chapter)
Next Steps:
- Design a “Green Schools Challenge” where clubs/classes compete to develop the best sustainability project (e.g., battery recycling drives, school gardens, composting, energy-saving campaigns).
- Host an inaugural “Lake County Youth Sustainability Summit” supported by Rotary, featuring workshops, speakers, and the presentation of student projects.
- Raise funds (through community events or grant applications) to provide microgrants, supplies, and recognition for participating schools.
- Leverage environmental law changes and news on proper disposal to launch awareness campaigns in schools, aligning service with legislative trends and demonstrating Rotary’s community leadership.
- Include student leaders and teachers in planning and leadership roles, ensuring projects are student-driven for greater impact and engagement.
Both projects celebrate current student excellence, address pressing community needs in literacy and the environment, and offer Rotary abundant partnership and service opportunities tied directly to current events and areas of focus.
1. Opioid Crisis Response & Prevention: Fentanyl Education & Naloxone Distribution Initiative (Community Health, Youth)
Context:
Lake County is facing a growing opioid crisis, highlighted by the recent news that an individual pled guilty to distributing over 115 grams of fentanyl and nearly 2,000 fentanyl-laced pills (Deerfield, IL news, Lake County Sheriff). The increase in fentanyl-related distribution and overdoses is a severe threat to public health and disproportionately affects both youth and adults in the Waukegan, Gurnee, and greater Lake County areas.
Potential Partners: - Lake County Health Department - Local law enforcement (e.g., Lake County Sheriff) - Local high schools (e.g., Waukegan High School, Warren Township High School in Gurnee) - Community-based organizations (such as Live4Lali, a local harm reduction group)
Next Steps: - Convene a meeting with the Health Department and Live4Lali to align on current efforts and gaps in community outreach and narcan (naloxone) distribution. - Coordinate with local schools to offer educational assemblies focused on fentanyl dangers, prevention, and skills training for students and parents. - Organize a community health fair or a series of pop-up events in Waukegan and Gurnee to provide free naloxone kits, information on substance abuse prevention, and sign-ups for ongoing support groups. - Plan a Rotary fundraising campaign (virtual or in-person) with proceeds going toward purchasing naloxone kits and educational materials.
2. Community Food Security Enhancement: Rotary Food Drive & Pantry Support (Community Health, Basic Needs)
Context:
Recent coverage notes a sharp increase in visits to Chicago-area food pantries over the past year, signaling heightened food insecurity locally ("Chicago-Area Food Pantries See Spike In Visits Over Past Year"). With ongoing economic challenges and a rising cost of living, demand for food support continues to strain local resources in Lake County towns such as Waukegan and Gurnee.
Potential Partners: - Northern Illinois Food Bank - Cool Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan) - Grayslake and Gurnee food pantries (e.g., Warren Township Food Pantry) - Supermarkets (Jewel-Osco, Aldi, Mariano’s) and local faith communities
Next Steps: - Outreach to local pantries to assess specific needs and determine ideal timing for a drive (seasonal demand, supply gaps). - Launch a Rotary-coordinated community food drive, leveraging business partnerships to host drop-off locations and secure matching donations. - Mobilize Rotary and Interact (youth) volunteers to assist with food sorting, packing, and distribution, providing hands-on service and civic engagement for youth. - Promote the campaign through local media and social media to maximize impact and awareness, and evaluate opportunities for follow-up education sessions on nutrition and food security.
Both projects directly address urgent, current needs within Lake County, align with Rotary’s areas of focus, and offer clear pathways for collaboration, impact, and visibility in the community.
Here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities for the Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County, IL area, based on recent events and current community needs:
1. Mental Health & Wellness Support for Youth
Context:
Lake County, including Waukegan and Gurnee, continues to face challenges related to youth mental health and the aftermath of the pandemic. There is a growing need for mental wellness resources, coping skill workshops, and peer support, especially as winter months can lead to increased isolation for teens. The upcoming Hearts & Hatchets Valentine’s event (February 13 at HitZ the Spot, 2050 E Grand Ave, Lindenhurst) suggests a community interest in social connection and well-being, making now a great opportunity to address youth mental health needs while collaborating with existing events.
Potential Partners:
- Local high schools (Waukegan, Warren Township in Gurnee, Grayslake North/South)
- NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Youth & Family Counseling (Libertyville)
- HitZ the Spot (event venue)
- Lake County Health Department
Next Steps:
- Reach out to event coordinators at HitZ the Spot and nearby schools to propose a “Pop-up Wellness Lounge” or resource booth at the February 13 event.
- Coordinate with NAMI/Youth & Family Counseling for trained volunteers/mental health professionals.
- Develop interactive activities: stress-relief crafts, mindfulness sessions, and short mental health education talks.
- Publicize the initiative with partners and through social media, leveraging the event's audience and Patch/local news calendars.
- Gather feedback to evaluate community interest and impact, with the goal of scaling up to additional venues and events.
2. Waste Reduction & Artisan Support Project ("Green Market Days")
Context:
Several upcoming artisan and market events are taking place in Spring Grove and Lindenhurst (e.g., Superbowl & Sweethearts Market, DeStash Bash). These events feature local artists and encourage secondhand or upcycled shopping. However, many Lake County communities—including Gurnee and Waukegan—still face significant environmental challenges, particularly in reducing landfill waste and promoting sustainable practices.
Potential Partners:
- Market organizers (KC's Cabin, HitZ the Spot)
- Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO)
- Local environmental nonprofits (Prairie Crossing Learning Farm, etc.)
- Gurnee and Waukegan Community Schools’ Green Clubs
Next Steps:
- Collaborate with DeStash Bash and Superbowl & Sweethearts Market organizers to host “Green Market Days,” featuring on-site recycling/composting education, textile and e-waste collection, and workshops on upcycling.
- Contact SWALCO for partnership on collection logistics and environmental education.
- Recruit Rotary volunteers and student club members as “Green Ambassadors” to staff workshops, guide attendees on waste sorting, and distribute resource materials.
- Promote the event’s environmental impact in Rotary and community newsletters, and invite local officials for greater visibility.
- Measure collected materials and participant engagement for reporting and future grant opportunities.
By supporting mental health for youth and leading the way on community waste reduction, Rotary can have a high-impact presence at popular local events and build partnerships across Lake County.
1. Opioid Awareness and Support Initiative for Lake County
Context:
Recent news highlighted a major fentanyl-related arrest: "Man Pleads Guilty To Distributing Fentanyl In Lake County: Sheriff." Additionally, Vernon Township’s Community Mental Health Board spotlighted local substance use support services. Like many areas in Illinois, Lake County continues to face serious impacts from opioid addiction, with rising overdoses, youth exposure, and a need for more awareness and access to care.
Rotary Area of Focus: Disease Prevention and Treatment; Community Health; Youth
Potential Partners:
- Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board
- Lake County Health Department
- Local law enforcement and public schools
- Substance use treatment providers (e.g., Nicasa Behavioral Health Services, Gateway Foundation)
- Local hospitals recognized in IL’s Best Hospitals rankings
Next Steps:
- Establish a planning committee within Rotary to coordinate opioid prevention programming.
- Partner with schools and health providers for education workshops targeting parents and youth, focusing on fentanyl dangers, naloxone (Narcan) use, and available resources.
- Organize a fundraising campaign (e.g., community walk, benefit dinner) to purchase naloxone kits for distribution to schools and at-risk community members.
- Collaborate with partners to hold a “Substance Use Resources Day” with free counseling, literature, and supplier buyback opportunities.
- Publicize local support services widely through Rotary networks and social media.
2. Youth Education & Tutoring Support Program
Context:
News outlets and community features (Mindsee.It, The Episcopal Preschool) have recently highlighted the demand for innovative, enriching education options in Lake County, as well as continued challenges with learning loss, especially among underserved students. With overall crime down in Lake Forest and strong municipal support, there is bandwidth for further community-based education initiatives.
Rotary Area of Focus: Basic Education and Literacy; Youth
Potential Partners:
- Local tutoring organizations (Mindsee.It)
- The Episcopal Preschool and area elementary/middle schools
- Waukegan Public Schools and Gurnee School Districts
- Libraries and after-school programs (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County)
- Colleges or high school honor societies for volunteer tutors
Next Steps:
- Survey local schools and social service agencies to identify underserved youth in need of tutoring or enrichment support.
- Host a community fundraising event (e.g., Read-a-Thon, trivia night) to fund scholarships for tutoring services or purchase learning materials.
- Build a roster of Rotary volunteers to provide mentoring or academic support, leveraging partner programs like Mindsee.It for curriculum guidance or volunteer training.
- Coordinate regular outreach fairs in collaboration with schools, libraries, and after-school groups for parent sign-up and resource sharing.
- Create ongoing feedback loops with educators and parents to measure improvements in student engagement and literacy.
These projects would address current Lake County needs around opioid prevention and youth education, while supporting Rotary’s mission to build healthier, more educated, and resilient communities.
1. Mental Health Support for Youth and Families (Community Health, Youth)
Context:
The Gurnee Police Department recently launched a CARE Team (Crisis Assistance & Response Engagement) focused on addressing mental health needs in the community. This signals both local concern and momentum around mental health support, particularly in times of increasing stress for youth and families. Additionally, news of a 7-year-old child being starved and recent drug crises (including fentanyl cases in Lake County) highlight the need for deeper support structures and proactive mental wellness initiatives for at-risk populations.
Potential Partners:
- Gurnee Police Department CARE Team
- Local school districts (Gurnee District 56, Waukegan CUSD 60)
- Lake County Health Department
- NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Faith-based and youth organizations
Next Steps:
- Convene a planning meeting with the CARE Team and local school social workers to assess priority needs.
- Organize community forums or workshops to educate parents/youth about mental health resources, stress management, and substance abuse prevention.
- Initiate a fundraising event (e.g., Rotary 5k, silent auction, or local business partnership day) to support CARE Team outreach materials, school mental health days, or counseling scholarships.
- Recruit and train Rotary volunteers, connecting with NAMI to provide peer support or family resource navigation.
2. Educational Enrichment and Youth Tutoring (Education, Youth)
Context:
Local educational innovation is taking place (e.g., Mindsee.it tutoring program featured in Libertyville), and there are ongoing community concerns about child welfare, as evidenced by recent reports of neglect and broader youth safety issues. Many students, especially in under-resourced parts of Waukegan and Lake County, could benefit from supplementary educational support to help close achievement gaps exacerbated during the pandemic and by family instability.
Potential Partners:
- Mindsee.it (local education startup)
- Waukegan and Gurnee schools and after-school programs
- Public libraries (e.g., Waukegan Public Library)
- Boys & Girls Club of Lake County
Next Steps:
- Contact Mindsee.it and local principals about piloting a Rotary-sponsored tutoring/mentoring initiative using their platform, recruiting Rotarian and community volunteers.
- Identify students most in need in coordination with school counselors or social workers.
- Seek grant funding and donations of books, tech devices, or healthy snacks for program participants.
- Organize a public awareness and fundraising campaign highlighting the lasting impact of academic mentorship and opportunities for at-risk youth, inviting local businesses to contribute.
These actionable projects both directly address urgent needs in Lake County and exemplify Rotary’s commitment to local health, education, and youth support.