There are many ways to define the word to share, but one way dictionary.com describes it is, "to participate in, use, enjoy, or experience jointly or in turns."

That meaning seems to be simple but when trying to define the meaning of SHARE, as in the non-profit program SHARE Colorado, it can become more difficult because even though SHARE has been operating for 17 years, to many people, it is a totally new concept.

SHARE maybe one of Colorado's best kept secretes but to one group the meaning of SHARE is simple and is embodied by a woman they see every month. Her name is Dee Harmon, and she stands for the reason why SHARE was created and why SHARE is still thriving.

Harmon's SHARE story began 17 years ago when her husband of 25 years left her with two children just seven and eight years old.

"He moved out of state. I had no money, nothing," said Harmon. "I began frantically trying to find assistance for my family. I went to every agency in town and no one helped me."

After all her searching, Harmon finally came across the SHARE program and Gloria Vigil, the host site coordinator for the Mulroy Share, located in Denver, immediately welcomed her and gave her family the support they so desperately needed.

"I got involved with the SHARE program and its been my main source of food every since," said Harmon. "The only things I buy at the store are bread and milk, because SHARE doesn't offer it. For the past 17 years, I've gotten everything else from SHARE."

Dee was so appreciative that she began volunteering immediately, and has served as the Mulroy Share coordinator for the past eight years.

"I am very fortunate to still be volunteering with some of the same people I started with," said Harmon.

So what exactly is SHARE? It is described as a once a month food program that is opened to everyone. They offer name brand items, frozen meats, fresh fruits and vegetables at about 30-50 percent off the average retail price. The reason it is able to offer such discounted prices is because of volunteers like Harmon.

"None of our food is donated," said Dann Aungst, managing director. "We buy our food in-bulk and with the help of over 4,500 volunteers each month we are able to pass on the savings to everyone."

And everyone is what SHARE means. There are no income restrictions or qualifications to order food from this organization. They actually encourage everyone to participate in the program.

"Many people have a misconception of SHARE," said Aungst. "By purchasing your food through SHARE you not only save money on quality groceries but you also help others in your very own community. People like Dee Harmon, who not only benefit from the food discount but also the community involvement."

Harmon estimates that the Mulroy Share serves at least 150 families and in addition to distributing food at the site, she also delivers food to some of its homebound clients.

"I deliver because some of our seniors are shut-ins," said Harmon. "This way we make sure they get fresh vegetables."

"Dee really embodies the true meaning of SHARE," said Aungst. "Most of our sites are unable to deliver food to their participants but Dee will always go that extra mile to give everyone the ability to use SHARE."

So what ever happened to Harmon's children? Thanks to the support from SHARE, they grew-up to be productive citizens. Her daughter is an accountant, while her son is a police officer for the Westminster Police department. Both children and now her grandchildren are all SHARE participants.

"It's a wonderful program," said Harmon. "I've been helped so much by it I will never turn anyone away."

If you are interested in the program please visit IHM-Share located at 11385 Grant Dr on Sept. 6 th from 6:30-8 p.m. There are 60 Share sites located throughout the Denver Metro area andto find the closest one to you, please go to www.sharecolorado.com or call 303-428-0400 for more information.