Mountain Lake Community Service (MLCS).

The mission of Mountain Lake Community Service (MLCS) is “to help make a difference in the lives of people in the Lake Wales community.” Our residents’ support of Lake Wales began in 1929 with the funding of a new, modern hospital. Later, in the mid-50s, the Mountain Lake Ladies Auxiliary formed to provide volunteer assistance. In 1965 our residents raised $1 million to help finance a state-of-the art Lake Wales Medical Center.

After years of individual giving, Mountain Lake residents expanded and formalized a system of charitable giving in support of our Lake Wales community. MLCS now raises funds through a golf tournament, fun run, benefit dinner, solicitations and other activities. The MLCS Board in turn performs due diligence regarding each grant request received from non-profit organizations before awarding funds. MLCS, through the generous involvement of Mountain Lake members, annually provides grants to over 20 local non-profits to help improve health care, education, literacy, the arts, childcare and more.

Want to learn more about the MLCS or how to help?

Historic Colony House, Inc. Foundation (HCHF)

In this world of constant change and the relentless pursuit of the new, we believe some things are worth keeping just as they are and always have been. We see the inherent value in embracing the best of what made us who we are. As dedicated stewards of our community’s customs and traditions, Historic Colony House, Inc. Foundation (HCHF) is singularly committed to preserving the grandest and most visible symbol of the Mountain Lake way of life.

We are on a mission to preserve the past.

Simply put, the mission of the Historic Colony House, Inc. Foundation is the preservation of the Mountain Lake Colony House. This always has been and always will be a top priority and, to this end, in 2014 the Historic Colony House, Inc. Foundation (HCHF) was incorporated as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charity. With a volunteer Board of Directors overseeing operations of the Foundation, the purpose of the HCHF is to raise awareness and funds to help preserve and maintain this iconic structure for future generations. All contributions are welcome and are deductible to the full extent allowable by law.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. and built in 1916, the legendary Colony House at Mountain Lake is one of the most beautiful, significant and historic buildings in all of Florida.

The Mediterranean Revival-style structure, centerpiece of the entire Mountain Lake community, has been in continual use since its original construction. Like all buildings, even the most well maintained, the Colony House requires a substantial commitment to ongoing upkeep and maintenance. Several extensive renovations to the building have been undertaken over the years, with the latest in 2019 covering the interior living and working areas on the first floor. In the span of 100-plus years, Central Florida has also seen its share of hurricanes and other wind events that have impacted the exterior of the Colony House and required extensive repairs and cleanup.

If you are interested in supporting the Colony House, or if you have interest in one of our docent-led tours that are scheduled each year, please contact:

Historic Colony House, Inc. Foundation
Attn: Becky Wolf
P.O. Box 832
Lake Wales, FL 33859

Now available for Purchase!

Mountain Lake – the Formative History and Enduring Nature of the Colony

Written by esteemed author, Dr. Andrew C. Mutch, this book is a great testament to a community that understands, values, and prioritizes its unique heritage. 100% of the proceeds from the book will be donated to the Historic Colony House, Inc. Foundation (HCHF). For more information, please contact Jeremy Brown at 863-679-2433 or membership@mountainlakeflorida.com