United Community Relief Fund Activated to Support Residents Impacted by Government Shutdown
In response to the growing uncertainty caused by the government shutdown, United Way of Central Florida and the GiveWell Community Foundation have reactivated the United Community Relief Fund to provide urgent assistance to residents in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties.  As government-funded programs face disruption, families across our region are struggling with rising inflation and wages that no longer cover basic living expenses. One critical example: more than 130,000 individuals in the
12,500 Strokes for FUN! Support the Peacemaker Paddle Team!
12,500 Strokes for FUN! Support the Peacemaker Paddle Team! The vision of Stirring Waters—the ultra-inclusive aquatic center—is powering our incredible team of Peacemaker Paddlers!This November 14th-15th, our team will navigate 25 miles of the Suwannee River, delivering 12,500 strokes to raise the funds needed to complete our facility. This effort directly helps us fulfill our ultimate goal: getting everyone "off the deck and into the FUN!"Every stroke and every donation supports the creation of an
AdventHealth donates medical supplies to support Webber International University Student-athletes After Fire
AdventHealth Lake Wales donated several boxes of supplies to help Webber International University student-athletes (photo courtesy: AdventHealth) AdventHealth donates medical supplies to support Webber International University student-athletes after fire LAKE WALES, Fla. (Thursday, October 16, 2025) -- AdventHealth Lake Wales donated hundreds of essential medical supplies to Webber International University following a fire that damaged the university’s training room
Registration will start in November for Spring 2026 Semester at Polk State College
Monday, October 13, 2025 — Registration for the Spring 2026 Semester at Polk State College will begin in November, with priority registration starting on November 3 for students who have completed at least 50% of their program requirements. Open registration begins November 10.The spring semester will start on January 7 with 16-week and eight-week classes. Twelve-week classes will start on February 5, and the second session of eight-week classes will start on March 5.Students can register for classes in
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Twin Pulmonologists’ Path from Ecuador to AdventHealth in Polk
Dr. Daniela Trelles (middle left) and Dr. Valeria Trelles (middle right) said what they saw during the COVID-19 pandemic drove them to the field of pulmonology and critical care. (photo from recent ribbon cutting at new clinic courtesy: AdventHealth) LAKE WALES, Fla. (Thursday, October 09, 2025) -- For Dr. Valeria Trelles and Dr. Daniela Trelles, their calling to be doctors and help people in need in their community started as children growing up in Cuenca, Ecuador. “In our
Love's Fundraising Campaign - Children's Miracle
YMCA Child Care is Back in Lake Wales – Let’s Support Local Families Together!
Dear Community Partner,We’re excited to announce that the YMCA Early Learning Center at McLaughlin Middle High School is opening child care services in Lake Wales on August 11, and enrollment is NOW OPEN!This isn’t just a new child care center—it’s a place where children learn and grow, families feel supported, and our community thrives.We invite you to help us spread the word or explore ways we can partner to strengthen early childhood education and care in Lake Wales.What We Offer:Voluntary
Warner University - Discounted Online Education
We’re excited to offer a 15% tuition discount on all of our online degree programs to your Lake Wales employees! We know that the Lake Wales community pursues excellence and are committed to serving the people around them—values that align closely with Warner’s mission. This partnership would allow your team members to pursue affordable, flexible higher education while continuing to thrive in their roles. Program Highlights:15% tuition discount on all online programsFlexible scheduling designed for
