Rotary Radar - 20260112

🤖 AI Suggestion:

Certainly! Based on recent developments and needs in Gurnee, Waukegan, and wider Lake County, here are two Rotary service or fundraising opportunities that closely align with Rotary’s areas of focus: --- **1. Supporting Local Youth Mental Health Initiatives** **Context:** Waukegan, Gurnee, and broader Lake County have experienced a significant rise in youth mental health challenges, exacerbated by the aftereffects of the pandemic, school pressures, and increased awareness around teenage anxiety and depression. Recent news highlights increased demand for youth counseling and mental health first aid programs, with organizations such as the Lake County Health Department and Youth & Family Counseling of Libertyville reporting longer waitlists and funding gaps. **Potential Partners:** - Lake County Health Department - Youth & Family Counseling (Libertyville) - Warren Township Youth and Family Services - Local school districts (Waukegan District 60, Woodland School District 50, Warren Township High School) - NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness) **Next Steps:** - Convene a meeting with local youth mental health providers and school counselors to identify the most critical funding or resource needs (e.g., scholarships for counseling, funding workshops, providing mental health kits, crisis line sponsorships). - Develop a community fundraiser or a Rotary-sponsored youth mental health awareness fair, including resource tables, guest speakers, and on-site counseling introductions. - Seek Rotary District Grants or foundation sponsorships to subsidize professional development for teachers in mental health first aid or to support free counseling sessions for families in need. - Recruit club members to host wellness workshops or school presentations; promote the initiative via Rotary and partner social media. --- **2. Clean Water and Environmental Restoration at Waukegan Harbor** **Context:** Waukegan Harbor and its lakefront have undergone decades of environmental stress—from Superfund site pollution cleanup to persistent littering and invasive species challenges. Recent reports from local environmental groups and city planners point to ongoing water quality initiatives and a major push to restore public recreational areas as the city reimagines its downtown and harbor corridor. Community cleanups and shoreline restoration projects are frequently in need of volunteers, funding for native plantings, and educational outreach. **Potential Partners:** - Waukegan Park District & Waukegan Harbor Citizens’ Advisory Group - Lake County Stormwater Management Commission - Illinois Department of Natural Resources - Faith in Place (local environmental advocacy organization) - Schools and youth groups (e.g., Waukegan High School’s environmental club) **Next Steps:** - Contact Waukegan Park District and the Citizens’ Advisory Group to sponsor and co-host a Spring or Fall Harbor Cleanup Day, combined with educational booths on water quality and conservation. - Fundraise to purchase native plants and supplies for shoreline buffer restoration, and recruit Rotarians as volunteer coordinators or educators. - Collaborate with school eco-clubs for student engagement, offering Rotary service awards for participation. - Publicize results and long-term impact through both Rotary and city channels, helping to attract further investment and volunteers. --- Both opportunities address immediate, news-driven needs in Lake County while aligning with Rotary’s dedication to community health, supporting youth, and protecting the environment.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Community Health & Access to Medications: Affordable Medicines Initiative** **Context:** AbbVie, a major pharmaceutical employer in Lake County, recently reached a deal with the federal government regarding drug prices. This topic is pivotal for many families and seniors in Waukegan, Gurnee, and surrounding communities due to ongoing concerns about affordable health care and medication access. Many local organizations and seniors struggle with high prescription costs, impacting health equity. **Potential Partners:** - Mano a Mano Family Resource Center (Director: Dulce Ortiz) - Local federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) - Village of Gurnee and City of Waukegan family services departments - AbbVie (for possible sponsorship or educational assistance) - Senior centers (Waukegan Township, Gurnee Senior Center) **Next Steps:** - Convene a roundtable with Mano a Mano, municipal health departments, and AbbVie representatives to discuss needs and available supports. - Organize a Rotary-led Health & Wellness Fair in Waukegan or Gurnee focusing on medication access, prescription assistance programs, and preventive screenings. - Launch a fundraising drive to support a local prescription assistance fund for underinsured residents, and recruit volunteer pharmacists for educational sessions. - Provide transportation stipends for seniors or families to attend medication management clinics. - Promote and distribute accessible, multilingual health education materials. --- **2. Youth Education & Environmental Sustainability: Solar STEM Learning Project** **Context:** Waukegan is under consideration as a site by Solarge, a Dutch solar panel manufacturer, bringing attention to both green jobs and renewable energy. This creates an outstanding opportunity to combine youth STEM education and environmental awareness, fostering interest in sustainable industries and workforce development. **Potential Partners:** - Solarge (potential for mentorship, sponsorship, or equipment donations) - Local high schools (especially STEM and vocational programs in Waukegan and Gurnee) - Lake County Forest Preserves (environmental education sites) - College of Lake County (green energy & STEM programs) - Local environmental and youth organizations **Next Steps:** - Connect with Solarge to propose a “Solar Futures” collaboration—classroom visits, panel installation demonstrations, and possible internships or scholarships for local youth. - Organize Rotary-funded workshops in partnership with high school science teachers—introducing students to solar technology and career pathways in renewable energy. - Fundraise and apply for Rotary and community grants to install a demonstration solar panel system at a school, library, or park, integrating it into the curriculum. - Hold a “Green Careers Expo” featuring hands-on activities and local green employers, with special focus on equitable access for underrepresented youth. - Promote Rotary’s role via social media and local press, highlighting alignment with both education and environmental global Rotary focus areas.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Project: Youth Literacy and Academic Excellence Initiative** **Context:** The recent success of 12-year-old Visharad Sathish from Grayslake, who is heading to Washington, D.C., to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee after winning the Lake County Regional Spelling Bee, highlights the academic talent and motivation present among local students. This event showcases the community’s strong interest in youth education, academic competition, and the benefits of literacy-based extracurricular activities. However, not all youth in Lake County have equal access to enrichment opportunities, tutoring, or extracurricular academic programs. Rotary's focus on education and literacy aligns perfectly with supporting and expanding these opportunities. **Potential Partners:** - Lake County Regional Office of Education (Michael Karner, Regional Superintendent) - Local schools such as Lake Forest Country Day School, John Lewis Middle School, and Matthews Middle School - Local libraries (e.g., Warren-Newport Public Library, Waukegan Public Library) - Area PTAs or education foundations **Next Steps:** - Reach out to the Lake County Regional Office of Education and participating schools to congratulate Visharad and propose a Rotary-led scholarship or micro-grant fund to cover expenses for students attending academic competitions, including travel, study materials, and coaching. - Organize a community spelling bee or literacy night as a Rotary fundraiser, featuring local spelling bee participants, teachers (such as Ashley Whitaker), and community leaders. Proceeds could fund books, tutoring, and enrichment programs for under-resourced schools. - Collaborate with local libraries to launch a “Summer of Spelling” or “Word Champions” literacy challenge, with Rotary providing volunteer coaches and resources. - Recognize student achievements publicly with Rotary awards and help subsidize travel for national competitors in future years. --- **2. Project: Rotary “Read, Thrive, and Lead” Mentoring Program** **Context:** The high engagement with spelling bees in Lake County shows a community invested in youth development and educational success. However, many students—especially outside strongly resourced schools—may lack regular mentorship, academic guidance, and support networks. Rotary’s global focus on supporting youth and education can help fill this gap by creating structured mentorship and tutoring opportunities for students countywide, focusing on literacy and leadership. **Potential Partners:** - Local school districts and after-school programs - Scripps National Spelling Bee alumni (e.g., Visharad Sathish and his brother, Sahasrad) - Education-focused organizations (e.g., Boys & Girls Club of Lake County, Reading Power) - Local high school or college honor societies (for peer tutors) **Next Steps:** - Coordinate with local schools and seek recommendations from educators like Ashley Whitaker on students who would benefit from extra academic or leadership mentorship. - Recruit “Rotary Reading Mentors” from club members, local business professionals, and honor society students to provide weekly reading and vocabulary sessions in schools, libraries, or community centers. - Launch a pilot program focused on Waukegan and Gurnee, tracking improvements in reading comprehension, vocabulary, and self-esteem among participating students. - Design a Rotary-funded scholarship or awards program for participants who demonstrate outstanding progress or leadership, and organize a year-end reception or recognition ceremony to inspire other youth.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Addressing Increased Food Insecurity in Lake County** **Context:** According to recent local news, food pantries across the Chicago area, including Lake County and Grayslake, are seeing a significant spike in visits over the past year. This surge indicates growing food insecurity in the community, aligning with Rotary’s areas of focus on community health and supporting basic needs. **Potential Partners:** - Northern Illinois Food Bank - COOL Ministries Food Pantry (Waukegan) - Avon Township Pantry (Grayslake) - Local grocery stores (e.g., Jewel-Osco, Target, Walmart) - Grayslake Central or North High School student groups - Local faith-based organizations **Next Steps:** - Convene a Rotary committee to coordinate a large-scale food drive and awareness campaign. - Reach out to food bank and pantry leaders to determine their specific needs (non-perishables, hygiene items, volunteers, funding). - Engage local schools for youth volunteer involvement and student-driven fundraising components. - Partner with grocery stores for collection boxes, donation matching days, or “round up at register” fundraisers. - Publicize the drive through social media, local news, and school newsletters. - Organize Rotary volunteers to assist directly in pantries, on distribution days, or with transportation for those lacking mobility. --- **2. Youth Support and Mental Health Initiatives in Response to Local Crises** **Context:** The tragic loss of Linda Brown, a local special education teacher, underscores the critical need for youth mental health and support systems in the Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County areas. Additionally, the introduction of the “Kids Before Cuts” Act highlights ongoing concerns about funding for child care and educational programs. **Potential Partners:** - Lake County schools and school social workers - NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness) - Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (support for at-risk youth and education) - Lake County Regional Office of Education - Local children’s advocacy organizations - “Mindsee.it” or other local youth tutoring/mentoring programs - Healthcare providers with youth or school partnerships **Next Steps:** - Host a free community seminar or panel focused on youth mental health, open to parents, students, and teachers, offering resources and Q&A with professionals. - Coordinate with NAMI and local schools to bring a mental health curriculum or speaker series to schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and Grayslake. - Launch a Rotary youth grant program to fund after-school activities, mental health first-aid training for teachers, or peer mentoring programs. - Pursue collaborative fundraising (walkathon, trivia night, benefit dinner) with partner organizations, earmarking funds for local youth counseling resources, crisis hotline expansion, or subsidized therapy services for children/families in need. - Promote volunteer opportunities for Rotarians to serve as mentors or reading buddies through existing nonprofits or new Rotary-driven initiatives.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Mental Health and Wellness Support Initiative for Youth in Lake County Schools** **Context:** Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan, has seen increased concern for youth mental health in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing social stressors. Local news sources and Lake County Health Department reports from 2023 cite rising anxiety and depression among students, with schools calling for additional resources and community partnerships to help address students’ mental health and wellness. Existing programs are stretched thin, and the Rotary’s focus on health and supporting youth positions them well to address these urgent needs as students return for the 2025–26 school year. **Potential Partners:** - Gurnee School District 56, Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 - Lake County Health Department/Behavioral Health Services - Nonprofits like NAMI Lake County and local counseling centers - Parent-Teacher Associations, school social workers, and youth clubs **Next Steps:** - Contact local school administration and the Lake County Health Department to assess gaps and priority needs. - Host a community roundtable (potentially as a hybrid in-person and virtual event) to connect educators, parents, and service providers in identifying specific supports—such as peer-support groups, mindfulness resources, or workshops on mental health literacy. - Apply for Rotary grants (district or global) to fund speaker events, screening tools, or school-based pilot programs. - Mobilize Rotary members as volunteers for after-school activities, mentoring, or liaison roles with schools. --- **2. Environmental Education and Community Clean-Up Campaign along the Lake Michigan Shoreline** **Context:** Lake County’s Lake Michigan shoreline, especially in Waukegan and nearby state parks, continues to face challenges with pollution, invasive species, and fluctuating water quality. Recent Lake County Forest Preserves news and community environmental groups, such as the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission, have highlighted the need for greater public engagement in keeping these valuable resources healthy. With Rotary’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and education, a hands-on campaign aligns both with local needs and with Rotary’s new area of service. **Potential Partners:** - Lake County Forest Preserves - Waukegan Park District / Waukegan Harbor & Marina - Illinois Department of Natural Resources - Youth organizations (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, student environmental clubs at Waukegan High School, College of Lake County) - Local businesses who sponsor eco-friendly initiatives **Next Steps:** - Reach out to Lake County Forest Preserves and Waukegan Park District to identify needed areas and possible dates for clean-up events. - Invite school groups and youth organizations to participate, with an added educational workshop on pollution prevention and water ecology, possibly featuring local scientists or environmental educators. - Seek sponsorship or in-kind donations from local businesses for materials (gloves, bags, recycling bins) and refreshments. - Amplify the event through social media, Rotary channels, and local news to boost turnout and community awareness, positioning Rotary as a leader in local environmental stewardship. - Plan post-event engagement: a follow-up newsletter, public recognition for volunteers, and a plan for ongoing quarterly cleanups.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Community Food Security Initiative (Community Health & Economic Development)** **Context:** Recent reports highlight record-breaking community support for the Township Food Pantry, which continues to serve hundreds of individuals and families experiencing food insecurity in Lake County. Despite strong community engagement, ongoing economic pressures and rising costs likely sustain or even increase local need, especially as 2025 begins. **Potential Partners:** - Local Township Food Pantries (including Lake Forest, Gurnee, and Waukegan) - Northern Illinois Food Bank - Local schools and faith communities (such as The Episcopal Preschool and area churches) - Local businesses (e.g., Waukegan Tire, which may offer sponsorship or volunteers) **Next Steps:** - Contact leadership at Lake County township food pantries to assess current needs (both food staples and basic household supplies) and identify gaps in distribution. - Organize a large-scale Rotary-led food drive—targeting both collection and fundraising for essential non-perishable foods, diapers, hygiene products. - Arrange volunteer days for Rotarians to help sort and distribute donations, serving alongside existing pantry volunteers. - Engage local businesses and schools as drop-off sites or sponsors; coordinate with the Northern Illinois Food Bank for matching drives or wholesale purchasing. - Publicize the effort through local media (e.g., Patch), partner websites, and social media to maximize participation and community awareness. --- **2. Bridge Replacement Support for Displaced Residents (Community Health, Environment & Education)** **Context:** The major bridge replacement project in Lake Forest will cause months of detours and may disrupt pedestrian and vehicle access for neighborhood residents, families, and schoolchildren through September. Such infrastructure work can result in isolation, commuting burdens, increased traffic/safety concerns for students, reduced walkability, and barriers to services for elderly or disabled neighbors. **Potential Partners:** - City of Lake Forest Public Works and Community Relations - Local schools affected by detour routes - Advocacy and service groups for seniors and those with disabilities - Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and high school service clubs (for supporting volunteer activities) **Next Steps:** - Reach out to City of Lake Forest officials to identify neighborhoods, schools, and populations most impacted by construction detours. - Launch a Rotary volunteer initiative to provide “walking school bus” escorts for students affected by closed routes, organizing adult volunteers to ensure safety during detours. - Collaborate with community resource agencies to arrange transportation solutions (shuttle services, ride-sharing support) for isolated seniors and those with mobility issues during bridge closure. - Provide environmental stewardship: Organize pre- and post-construction cleanup days, including litter pick-up and native plant restoration in areas affected by construction, aligning with Rotary’s environmental focus. - Encourage nearby businesses to support refreshments or equipment for volunteers. These projects align strongly with Rotary’s priorities and will demonstrate visible, timely leadership addressing current Lake County needs.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Community Mental Health & Crisis Training Initiative** **Context:** Recent news events in Lake County—including the bear spray attack on deputies while conducting a mental health intervention and repeated incidents involving individuals in distress around Metra tracks—highlight the urgent need for increased mental health support, crisis intervention training, and public awareness efforts. **Potential Partners:** - Lake County Sheriff’s Department - Local hospital and mental health providers (e.g., Lake County Health Department) - National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Lake County - NSYMCA (North Suburban YMCA), already involved in local social assistance efforts **Next Steps:** - Convene a roundtable with the Sheriff's office and mental health organizations to identify specific unmet needs—such as Mental Health First Aid training or resources for families/crisis teams. - Develop and fund (through grants or fundraising) a series of community workshops for first responders, educators, and residents on mental health crisis response and suicide prevention. - Organize an awareness campaign (possibly tied to a Rotary District grant) with local media and partners to destigmatize mental health and promote available resources. --- **2. Youth Financial Literacy & Workforce Readiness Program** **Context:** The recent partnership between Huntington Bank and NSYMCA, aimed at enhancing community financial assistance, spotlights economic vulnerability in the region. Coupled with the fact that several local schools and youth (including special education) are already in the news, there is an opportunity to fill gaps in financial literacy and job preparedness for teens and young adults—key to Rotary’s focus on education and economic development. **Potential Partners:** - NSYMCA and Huntington Bank (who are already active) - Local high schools (Waukegan, Gurnee, Libertyville) - Local businesses (such as the new Frunchroom Collective coffee shop as a youth job internship site) **Next Steps:** - Meet with NSYMCA and Huntington Bank to explore program expansion, focusing on high school-age youth in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Libertyville. - Design and implement a Rotary-funded workshop series: after-school programs teaching budgeting, resume writing, interviewing skills, and basics of entrepreneurship. - Launch a “Coffee with a Rotarian” mentorship opportunity at local businesses—such as Frunchroom Collective—to provide job shadowing or internships for interested youth. - Coordinate with school counselors to promote the program and seek student participants, targeting especially those from underserved backgrounds. By aligning with current events and needs, both projects will demonstrate Rotary’s commitment to community health and youth development in Lake County.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Supporting Youth in Environmental Education** **Context:** With the Arlington Heights Garden Club offering scholarships to students pursuing education in horticulture, landscape architecture, or sustainability—and the Batavia Plain Dirt Gardeners hosting education on native plants—there is a clear, growing local emphasis on environmental stewardship among youth. While these particular groups are not based directly in Gurnee, Waukegan, or Lake County, their activities signal an interest in expanding environmental education opportunities across suburban communities. **Potential Partners:** - Arlington Heights Garden Club (for their scholarship model and resources) - Batavia Plain Dirt Gardeners (for educational content and speakers) - Local school districts in Lake County (such as Warren Township High School in Gurnee, Waukegan High School) - Lake County Forest Preserves (for field-based education opportunities) **Next Steps:** - Convene a meeting with local educators and existing environmental organizations to tailor an environmental scholarship or grant specifically for Lake County youth. - Organize an annual “Green Youth Summit” in partnership with local schools to promote scholarship opportunities, environmental careers, and native planting workshops. - Recruit Rotary club volunteers and eco-experts to host hands-on environmental projects—such as establishing native pollinator gardens or holding sustainability-themed competitions. - Seek matching funds or guidance from the Arlington Heights Garden Club to launch a pilot program this year. --- **2. Welcoming and Supporting Seniors Amid Housing Transitions** **Context:** Pulte Home Company’s large-scale development replacing Libertyville Manor (a longstanding extended care facility) with a significant number of age-restricted duplexes signals a shift in local senior housing. Seniors possibly displaced by the change, as well as new residents moving into age-focused housing, will face social and logistical transitions. This creates a community need for connection, wellness, and supportive services—especially for isolated or vulnerable elders. **Potential Partners:** - Pulte Home Company (developer and communicator for incoming residents) - Local senior services agencies (Catholic Charities Senior Services, Lake County Council on Aging) - Local health providers (Advocate Condell Medical Center, Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital) - Faith-based organizations with senior ministries - Resident associations forming within the new community **Next Steps:** - Reach out to Pulte and senior services to coordinate a “Welcome Seniors to Libertyville” initiative, offering information sessions, welcome baskets, and Rotary-sponsored orientation events. - Develop monthly social activities and wellness checks for new residents, recruiting volunteers from area high schools and senior agencies. - Host an “Active Aging in Lake County” resource fair, bringing together health providers, legal advisors, and social organizations for both incoming and displaced seniors. - Identify gaps in transportation, nutrition, or health services for affected seniors and consider a Rotary fundraising drive to support high-priority needs (e.g., rides to medical appointments, meal deliveries). These two service opportunities address Rotary’s focus on environment, youth, and community health—timely, impactful ways to serve Gurnee, Waukegan, and Lake County residents in 2026.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Youth Leadership & Civic Engagement Workshops (Aligns with Rotary priorities: Education & Youth Development)** **Context:** Recent coverage highlights youth engagement in events such as the Lake County history symposium and strong participation in local high school sports and community gatherings (e.g., Frosty Fest in Gurnee). With ongoing regional conversations about democracy, civic responsibility, and local history (see Dulce Ortiz and Mano a Mano Family Services’ advocacy), now is a critical time to invest in youth civic literacy and leadership. The presence of protest movements indicates an engaged (but often fragmented) youth population eager for constructive outlets. **Potential Partners:** - **Mano a Mano Family Services** (Dulce Ortiz, Executive Director): Experience with youth and civic programs - **Local school districts** and **Grayslake Central**, **Libertyville High**: help with student recruitment - **Public libraries** and **history centers** already hosting educational symposia **Next Steps:** - Reach out to Mano a Mano and local schools to co-host a series of Rotary-sponsored after-school or weekend workshops on leadership, public speaking, voting, and community engagement. - Recruit local leaders, historians, and Rotarians as speakers/mentors. - Coordinate venues (public libraries, schools) and promote sign-up via schools and social media. - Explore Rotary grants or host a fundraiser (community trivia night, silent auction) to fund transportation, materials, and small scholarships/prizes for participating students. --- **2. Clean Energy & Sustainability Initiative (Aligns with Rotary priorities: Environment & Economic Development)** **Context:** Waukegan is considered as a site for a new Dutch solar technology plant by Solarge, signaling potential for green jobs and renewed environmental focus. Environmental justice has been a recurring topic in Lake County due to its history of industrial sites and lakefront issues. Community leaders and residents will need both education and workforce development as clean energy investment increases. **Potential Partners:** - **Solarge** (Dutch solar company, possibly new to Waukegan) - **Lake County Workforce Development**: for job skills sessions - **Local environmental non-profits** (e.g., Lake County Forest Preserves, Clean Power Lake County) - **City of Waukegan** and Chamber of Commerce **Next Steps:** - Approach Solarge, Lake County, and city economic development officials about a Rotary-sponsored community summit on clean energy jobs & sustainability. - Organize hands-on workshops for youth and adults: solar panel basics, energy-saving at home, green business entrepreneurship. - Recruit Rotarians with green tech experience or access to environmental education materials for workshops. - Apply for Rotary district or global grants for project seed funds; consider joint fundraising (e.g., community “green fair” or solar-powered fun run) to support scholarships for workforce training programs or local green infrastructure projects.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Youth Literacy & Education Support: Regional Spelling Bee Scholarship Fund and Literacy Festival** **Context:** Lake County recently celebrated the achievements of Visharad Sathish, a 12-year-old from Lake Forest Country Day School, who won the Lake County Regional Spelling Bee and will represent the region at the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. The bee saw participation from nearly 73 local schools, highlighting the community’s commitment to youth academic excellence and literacy. However, participation and success in such programs often require substantial preparation, resources, and support that may not be accessible to all students. **Potential Partners:** - **Lake County Regional Office of Education** — led by Regional Superintendent Michael Karner - **John Lewis Middle School (Waukegan)** — instructional specialist Ashley Whitaker - **Lake Forest Country Day School and Matthews Middle School (Island Lake)** - **Local businesses and public libraries** (potential event hosts/sponsors) - **Rotary International Youth Exchange/Interact Clubs** — for engaging student volunteers **Recommended Rotary Service or Fundraising Opportunity:** Establish a “Lake County Literacy & Spelling Scholarship Fund” which provides: - Grants for students/families to access study materials, coaching, and travel for academic competitions - Funding or sponsorship of an annual Lake County Literacy Festival—open to all area youth, featuring spelling, reading, and dictionary games, guest authors, literacy workshops, and parent seminars. **Next Steps:** 1. **Reach out to Michael Karner and Ashley Whitaker** to present Rotary's interest in supporting literacy initiatives and identify students with financial need. 2. **Form a committee with local educators and parents** to develop guidelines for scholarship application and event planning. 3. **Engage local libraries and businesses** for event partnerships, sponsorships, and in-kind donations (books, event space, prizes). 4. **Launch a fundraising campaign**, combining Rotary Club efforts with community partners, and promote through social media, local news, and schools. 5. **Recruit volunteers from area Interact and Rotaract Clubs** and organize the first festival during the next school break. **Rotary Area of Focus:** Basic Education and Literacy, Youth Service --- **2. Environmental Education and Youth Engagement: Schoolyard Pollinator Gardens Initiative** **Context:** Lake County’s academic events, such as the Spelling Bee, demonstrate strong youth participation and parental involvement in local schools. As Lake County continues to balance suburban growth with environmental stewardship, schools serve as important venues for raising environmental awareness among the next generation. Pollinator gardens directly address local needs by supporting native biodiversity while providing outdoor classrooms that enhance science literacy. **Potential Partners:** - **Lake County Regional Office of Education** - **Participating schools in Gurnee, Waukegan, and greater Lake County** - **Lake County Forest Preserves** - **Local environmental nonprofits (e.g., Conserve Lake County, Openlands)** - **4-H and local Scout groups** - **Master gardeners or university extension offices** **Recommended Rotary Service or Fundraising Opportunity:** Launch a “Schoolyard Pollinator Gardens Project,” providing funding, supplies, and educational resources for schools to develop native plant gardens. Incorporate student service learning—students research, plant, and care for gardens, tying projects into curricula (science, environment, language arts). **Next Steps:** 1. **Contact Lake County Regional Office of Education** to identify interested schools and teachers. 2. **Coordinate with local environmental groups** and master gardeners for site plans, native plant selection, and youth education sessions. 3. **Apply for Rotary environmental grants** and seek donations from local nurseries or businesses. 4. **Schedule student work days** for designing, planting, and maintaining gardens, ensuring all ages and abilities can participate. 5. **Create friendly competitions or "green awards"** between schools, with recognition at Rotary and Board of Education meetings. **Rotary Area of Focus:** Supporting the Environment, Basic Education and Literacy, Youth Service

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Event: Addressing Food Insecurity in Lake County** **Context:** Recent reporting highlights a spike in visits to Chicago-area food pantries, with increased need impacting communities throughout Lake County, including Gurnee and Waukegan. This aligns with Rotary’s area of focus on community health and disease prevention, as food insecurity is directly linked to overall well-being, childhood development, and academic performance. **Potential Partners:** - Northern Illinois Food Bank (serving Lake County) - Local food pantries, such as COOL Ministries (Waukegan), Avon Township Food Pantry (Round Lake Park), and Warren Township Food Pantry (Gurnee) - Gurnee and Waukegan Park Districts for event space - Local youth organizations or schools (for student involvement and food drives) **Next Steps:** - Contact local food pantries to assess current needs and explore opportunities for regular food collection events or mobile pantry sponsorships. - Organize a Rotary-led “Day of Service” food drive at Gurnee Mills or partnership retailers, collecting shelf-stable goods and monetary donations. - Promote the event through local news, schools, and community organizations. - Establish an ongoing partnership for regular food support, volunteer shifts, or educational sessions on nutrition and healthy eating. --- **2. Event: Supporting Education Equity through Scholarships and Mentoring** **Context:** With a recent $6 million gift reported at the College of Lake County aimed at supporting student lives, there is clear philanthropic momentum around education in the region. At the same time, national and local news notes concerns around funding shortfalls in child care and education—highlighted by Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s “Kids Before Cuts Act.” Many students, particularly in Waukegan and surrounding Lake County, face significant barriers to graduation and career readiness. **Potential Partners:** - College of Lake County Foundation - Gurnee and Waukegan school districts - Mindsee.it (local tutoring service featured in Patch news) - Local businesses interested in supporting youth career pathways - Community leaders who can serve as mentors **Next Steps:** - Reach out to the College of Lake County Foundation and local school district liaisons to assess scholarship needs or mentoring program gaps, especially for low-income and special-needs students. - Organize a Rotary Service Scholarship and Mentorship Fundraiser—perhaps tied to an existing community event, such as Trivia Night or Sweethearts Market—raising funds for scholarships and recruiting mentors from within Rotary and partner businesses. - Collaborate with Mindsee.it and local educators to provide tutoring workshops or after-school enrichment as part of the project. - Form a steering committee to oversee application processes, mentor training, and ongoing support to maximize program impact. These projects leverage current events and evident community needs in Lake County, address two of Rotary’s guiding focus areas, and offer actionable steps for engagement and measurable impact.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Youth Mental Health & Well-being Workshop Series (Education, Community Health)** **Context:** Recent reports in Waukegan and Lake County highlight increasing concerns around youth mental health and the need for supportive educational resources. School districts in the area—including Waukegan Community Unit School District 60—have cited increased anxiety and social-emotional challenges among students post-pandemic. Many local families may struggle to access mental health resources or feel stigma around seeking help. Rotary’s focus on supporting education and building healthy communities makes this an urgent and impactful area for service. **Potential Partners:** - Waukegan CUSD 60 and Gurnee District 56 (School leadership, social workers, counselors) - Lake County Health Department (Youth & Family Services) - Youth mental health non-profits, e.g., Lake County’s Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center or United Way of Lake County - Librarians (Waukegan Public Library, Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee) - Local mental health professionals or organizations **Next Steps:** - Reach out to school districts to identify needs, available spaces, and best times for workshops - Partner with local mental health professionals or non-profits to develop the curriculum and provide qualified facilitators - Promote the workshop series through school communications, social media, and local media (Patch, Daily Herald, community newsletters) - Offer sessions at multiple locations (schools, libraries, community centers) and include both youth and parent-targeted topics - Evaluate through surveys and adapt for ongoing implementation with district support --- **2. Environmental Sustainability Initiative—Community Tree Planting & Education (Environment, Community Engagement)** **Context:** With Lake County communities (including Gurnee and Waukegan) actively addressing environmental concerns, there is a local push toward sustainable community spaces and greening initiatives. Parks and green infrastructure—especially in areas like Waukegan and older Gurnee neighborhoods—can improve air quality, reduce flooding, and offer educational opportunities for local youth. Several Lake County municipalities and local environmental non-profits (e.g., Lake County Forest Preserves, Conserve Lake County) have run successful, small-scale tree-planting and native landscaping programs, but scaling up community engagement and environmental education is a pressing need. **Potential Partners:** - Lake County Forest Preserves or Gurnee Park District - Waukegan Park District - Conserve Lake County and SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County) for recycling/composting tie-ins - Local scout troops, high school eco-clubs (Warren Township High School, Waukegan High School) - Area nurseries/garden centers willing to donate or discount native trees/plants **Next Steps:** - Contact Lake County Forest Preserves and city/village environmental committees to identify target planting sites and permission needs - Solicit tree/plant donations or discounts from regional nurseries and seek grant funding if needed - Develop education materials (printed and digital), including the benefits of tree planting and environmental stewardship (especially for kids) - Plan “Rotary Community Green Day”—organize a volunteer tree-planting event with learning activities for local families (could coincide with Earth Day or Arbor Day) - Coordinate press and photo opportunities for awareness and potential recurring annual campaign These initiatives directly address critical needs in the community, promoting Rotary’s commitment to youth, health, and the environment.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**1. Food Insecurity and Community Pantry Support Project** **Context:** A recent article highlighted "record-breaking community support" fueling the township food pantry, which serves hundreds of local individuals and families facing food insecurity (Lake Forest-Lake Bluff, Jan 5). While the food pantry has experienced an uptick in donations and volunteerism, rising need persists—especially as inflation and economic pressures impact vulnerable residents in Gurnee, Waukegan, and throughout Lake County. **Rotary Areas of Focus:** Community Health, Economic Development **Potential Partners:** - Local township and city food pantries (e.g., Lake Forest Township Food Pantry, Cool Ministries Food Pantry in Waukegan) - Area businesses and civic groups (e.g., Waukegan Tire, The Episcopal Preschool) - Local schools, involving students and families in food drives - Community volunteers **Next Steps:** - Reach out to pantry leadership to assess current needs (food staples, personal hygiene items, volunteer support) - Organize a food and essentials drive, targeting high-need items and leveraging partner businesses as drop-off points - Plan an awareness campaign (both in-person and virtual) to further educate the community about ongoing food insecurity - Coordinate Rotary volunteers for sorting, packing, and distributing items - Evaluate opportunities for sustainable support, such as establishing a “backpack” weekend food program for local schoolchildren facing food insecurity --- **2. Education and Youth Enrichment Tutoring Initiative** **Context:** With renewed legislative focus on safeguarding child care and education funding (see news regarding the “Kids Before Cuts Act,” Evanston, Jan 5) and local spotlight on innovative tutoring programs (Mindsee.It featured in local media), access to quality education and out-of-school support remains both a need and a community priority—especially for under-resourced students in towns like Waukegan and Gurnee. **Rotary Areas of Focus:** Education, Youth Development **Potential Partners:** - Local schools and after-school programs in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Lake County - Innovative tutoring organizations (e.g., Mindsee.It) - The Episcopal Preschool (for early learning enrichment) - Local libraries and community centers **Next Steps:** - Partner with area schools to identify students who would benefit from academic support or enrichment - Collaborate with tutoring programs (such as Mindsee.It) to provide volunteer tutors or sponsor tutoring sessions - Organize community events such as literacy nights, STEM workshops, or “reading buddies” programs, potentially hosted at libraries or partner sites - Seek funding through Rotary grants and local sponsors to ensure free or low-cost access for all families - Collect data and feedback from students, parents, and educators to inform and expand program offerings These projects will address current needs highlighted in local news and community conversations, positioning Rotary as a responsive leader in service and partnership in Lake County.

🤖 AI Suggestion:

**Project 1: Mental Health & First Responders Support Initiative** **Context:** Recent local incidents—including a bear spray attack on deputies serving a mental health writ in Libertyville, and continued home invasions and violence—highlight increasing strain on law enforcement and the need for improved mental health crisis response. Both police officers and community members are at risk during these crises, illuminating a regional need for mental health awareness, training, and support resources. Rotary’s focus on community health and supporting peace aligns well here. **Potential Partners:** - Lake County Sheriff's Office - NAMI Lake County (National Alliance on Mental Illness) - Lake County Health Department - Local hospitals (Advocate Condell, Vista Health) - Municipalities of Gurnee, Waukegan, Libertyville **Next Steps:** 1. Convene a roundtable with local law enforcement, NAMI, and the Health Department to discuss urgent needs and opportunities for de-escalation/mental health training. 2. Launch a community awareness campaign and fundraising event (e.g., “Walk for First Responders’ Wellness”) to support officer crisis intervention training and fund mental health resources for residents. 3. Establish a Rotary-sponsored grant or scholarship for police and community members to receive Mental Health First Aid certification. 4. Seek funding from local businesses and major employers (e.g., Huntington Bank, Advocate Condell) and coordinate with other local civic groups. --- **Project 2: Youth Education & Safe Spaces Enhancement** **Context:** Multiple recent tragedies—deaths near Metra tracks, a violent home invasion, and ongoing concerns of youth disconnection—underscore the need for positive, safe environments and education for young people in Lake County. The opening of new community “third spaces” like Frunchroom Collective and partnerships such as Huntington Bank with NSYMCA to expand financial assistance for youth may help fill critical gaps, but more targeted outreach and safety education are needed. **Potential Partners:** - NSYMCA (North Suburban YMCA) - Frunchroom Collective (new Libertyville coffee shop focusing on community gathering) - Metra Safety Education Program - Local schools and PTAs in Waukegan, Gurnee, and Libertyville - Mindsee.it (local tutoring program) **Next Steps:** 1. Partner with NSYMCA and Metra to deliver safety seminars for youths, especially high school students, focusing on rail safety, after-school programs, and safe transit. 2. Organize a fundraising reading or tutoring marathon with Mindsee.it at Frunchroom Collective, raising funds for scholarships for at-risk youth or after-school sponsorships. 3. Develop “third space” after-school programs hosted at the new Frunchroom Collective and other local gathering spots, offering homework help, meals, and mentorship. 4. Leverage Huntington Bank’s financial assistance program to teach financial literacy to teens and families as part of these “safe space” programs. These two opportunities not only address recent events but also align closely with Rotary areas of focus in community health, youth, and education, with clear, actionable next steps.