SHARE Foundation Marks 40 Years of Empowering People With Disabilities

Since 1982, the SHARE Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has facilitated communication and independent living for thousands of children and adults by adapting computers and other technology.

There is no charge for the foundation's services. People with severe disabilities are now able to better communicate with family and loved ones, and perform tasks others thought they would never do.

How SHARE Foundation Began

The SHARE Foundation had its origins at UMass Dartmouth. Its offices are currently located at 128 Union Street in downtown New Bedford.

Executive Director Jack Dresser and Filomena Tripp, a SHARE client, visited Townsquare Sunday to discuss the organization and a pair of fundraisers coming up next month.

"Really what the SHARE Foundation is about is giving people as much independence as they can," Dresser said. "Helping them overcome their physical challenges, so they can keep connected with their family, caregivers and the outside world."

Empowering People With Disabilities Through Technology

Tripp was born with two undeveloped arms and one undeveloped leg, but she has never given up. Her own faith kept her going, along with help from the SHARE Foundation.

"SHARE provided me special equipment so I could do my job from home," Tripp said. "People with disabilities are very challenged. We cannot do all the things that other people do, but we can, if we have the equipment."

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Dresser said SHARE accepts about a dozen new clients every year, and is working with about 60 people at any one time.

The SHARE Foundation receives no state or federal grant money. It relies on donations from local corporations and private individuals, plus fundraising events.

September’s 40th Annual Walk and Roll

There are two events coming up in September. The first is the 40th Annual Walk and Roll on September 13, with registration starting at 9 a.m. at the Westport Point United Methodist Church. After the  walk, there's a free pizza lunch and a chance to win some fabulous prizes.

"This being our 40th annual Walk, we hope to raise about $40,000 this year," Dresser said.

You can register online now, or call SHARE at (774) 992-0674. Participants who raise $50 or more will receive a Walk and Roll t-shirt.

Classic Car Show to Support SHARE Foundation

The second event is the following day, September 14. An Antique and Classic Car Show will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Freetown Historical Society, located at 1 Slab Bridge Road in Assonet. Admission is free, and donations are welcome.

The Classic Car Show is sponsored by the Downshifters Car Club of New England, with proceeds to benefit the SHARE Foundation.

If you want your nonprofit group featured on Townsquare Sunday, email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.