Updated Jan 28, 2019.

Ten custom-built boats will compete, and all proceeds go to support Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine.

This year marks the 12th Annual Lakeland Derby, a signature fundraising event hosted by Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine (LVIM). In classic “Derby” fashion, the race is held at Lake Mirror and oversees swan paddle boats race around the lake for the title. Ten custom-built boats will compete, and all proceeds go to support LVIM. With three races, food, live music, kids’ games, and a closing fireworks’ display, the Lakeland Derby is an event that draws out the community and sees plenty of wide-brim hats for the occasion.

In 2001, LVIM was founded to create a way to meet the healthcare needs of the greater Lakeland community. This non-profit organization sees that patients gain a medical home and have access to doctors’ visits, diagnostic testing, lab tests, ultrasound scans, and x-rays at no charge. Extensive diagnostics are also available through a network of participating ancillary providers who volunteer their facilities, staff, and professional time also at no charge to LVIM or the patients. Additionally, LVIM operates a full-service pharmacy, funded by United Way of Central Florida. The Prescription Assistance Program secures almost $3 million of brand-name prescriptions for patients at no charge; at LVIM, the treatment is free.

In order to keep LVIM fueled and accessible to the community, the Annual Lakeland Derby is a key fundraiser for the organization. But, while it requires many skilled professionals to keep LVIM running properly, you don’t need to have a medical background to volunteer. You can also donate to LVIM while shopping at Amazon. At Smile.Amazon.com, choose Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine as your 501(c)(3) from the list provided, and a percentage of your purchase comes back to LVIM.

For more information on how to become a Lakeland Derby sponsor, to volunteer or donate to LVIM, please visit, lvim.net/lakeland-derby, or call 863.606.1552.

The 2019 Leaders of Polk teams:

  •  “Carry on My Wayward Swan”
    Abby Jarvis with QGiv
    Dave Walter with GiveWell     
  •  “Easy As Swan Two Three”
    Matt Chandler with S&D Real Estate 
    Christine Milthaler with Lakeland Eye Clinic     
  • “Swan and Get It”
    Justin Bolding with Rodda Construction
    Kelsey Bolding with Polk County Pre-School Programs     
  •  “Swanderlust”
    Lauren Hinton with the Florida Department of Health
    Gary Boyer with Boyer Building Corporation      
  • “Swan Divers”
    Megan Ruscello with Saddle Creek Logistics 
    John Sewell with Saddle Creek Logistics     
  • “Rogue Swan”
    TJ and Brook Alcock with TBA Marketing     
  • “For the LOVE of Lakeland”
    Tiffany and Steve Love of Love Chiropractic      
  • “Publix Team” (still cooking up a great name!)
    Michelle Oliver
    Jared Jaskiewicz     
  • “Riskin Swan Mode”
    Mike Riskin with CPS Investment Advisors
    Nyrka Riskin with Nyrka Riskin Consulting     
  • “Swanasana”
    Mike Woodhouse with Heacock Insurance 
    Valerie Woodhouse with Just Move