Adopt a Highway: Overgaard Ponderosa Lions Club ‘Keep It Grand’

Lions Clubs throughout the world have a motto: “We Serve.” And the Overgaard Ponderosa Lions Club has a rich history of doing just that. 

Doug Harris, Arizona Lions district governor and Adopt a Highway Volunteer program coordinator, told me the club has maintained State Route 277 between mileposts 306-308 for more than 15 years. Their continued participation in the program and litter removal efforts help beautify this unincorporated town, a popular respite from the Valley’s summer heat. 

This year, the Lions and the Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce tried to coordinate a specific single date as Town Beautification Day with local church volunteers assisting. This was a planned community event that would include a prize that many would love: biscuits and gravy. 

Unfortunately, recent adjustments to social gathering practices during the public health situation put this gathering, like many, on hold until further notice. 

Typically, nine to 15 Lions Club members participate in litter pickups. Harris told me that among the items they’ve found was paper currency while collecting aluminum cans. The most unusual and concerning item found was a wheel still attached to a half-axle that appeared to have come off of a homemade trailer.

While the public health situation put a snag in holding the community event, the Lions remain busy supporting those in need through the many Lions Club programs. Those programs include sight conservation, hearing and speech conservation, diabetes awareness, youth outreach, international relations and environmental issues. 

The Adopt a Highway Volunteer program thanks the dedicated force of Lions who selflessly care for their adopted segment of SR 277, helping ADOT to Keep It Grand. 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please visit the Adopt a Highway website. Our map shows which highway segments are available for adoption.