06/05/2026
When John Lee retired after 30 years as a letter carrier in Southern California, he knew what he was looking for next: mountains, hiking trails, and a close-knit community. So John and his two Chihuahua-terrier mixes traded Los Angeles-area traffic for the peaceful beauty of Groveland in September 2024. Today we welcome John as our newest Wheels volunteer driver!
John and his late wife had vacationed in the Groveland area often, so he already knew the area. While on a hike this past April, John got to talking with Beth Martin, a transportation coordinator at Southside Community Connections. He was immediately intrigued by the Wheels program, which connects volunteer drivers with local seniors and residents who need transportation for grocery shopping, appointments, errands, and other essential trips. For many riders, the service provides independence and helps them continue living in the community they love.
“Being a Wheels driver is something else I can do to help in the community,” said John, who is also a docent at the Groveland museum. “Some people don't have any way to get around themselves. It's great that I can do this little thing that most of us just kind of take for granted.”
To learn more about the Wheels program, or how to become a volunteer, call SCC at (209) 962-6952 Mon.-Fri between 10 am and 2 pm, or stop by The Little House at 11699 Merrell Rd. in Groveland.
