Mark's African drumming fundraiser
Donation protected
********Update 3rd February 2020*****
Mark has bought a new van. He is currently compiling an order for new drums to be made in Senegal.
The drums are being made in Dakar, Northern Senegal. Samantha Everitt (Teranga) has been importing drums since 2006. She has developed a strong relationship with a group of artisan makers in Dakar. Supporting traditional craftsmen for such a long time is extremely valuable to them and their families. Sam now lives in Senegal with her Senegalese husband.
These djembes are made by Babacar. The drums are loaded into a container and shipped to the UK.
These colourful djembe hats are made by Lamanara who is from Conakry in Guinea
Mark is a musician and teacher. He has worked for the education charity Workers Education Association (WEA) since 2008 and been teaching since 2004. He teaches West African drumming to community groups across the North East. On Monday 13th January, Mark's van and a significant quantity of drums were stolen. Mark was due to teach his regular session at Fulwell Resource centre for adults with special needs when he discovered his van and drums missing from a street in Ashbrooke, Sunderland. Amongst the stolen items were two teaching drums made for Mark in Guinea, West Africa in 2009. In all 17 drums were stolen including 5 drums made in Mali in 2004. As Mark imported a large batch directly, the drum maker bought some land and build his house for his family and so these drums had particular sentimental value. All the drums are unique hand made instruments with their own stories.
There were also instruments and equipment used for people with special needs. There was a guitar and hard case which was given to Mark by his late brother which is irreplaceable.
Unfortunately, Mark's instrument insurance cover does not cover the full value of the drums.
The van insurance claim has been settled now as a total loss and again does not cover the full value. Working with a friend, Mark built extensive storage and fully insulated the van to store the drums safely. His personal property was not covered by insurance including outdoor clothing, walking boots and camping equipment.
In order to continue teaching his classes, Mark is hiring a van and using remaining drums and equipment but needs to replace the missing stock as soon as possible. If he can raise sufficient money in time he can buy drums directly from a workshop in Senegal and have them shipped to the UK, ensuring fair trade and good quality drums for his students.
Mark now has to source and buy a new van, fit it out appropriately and invest in security measures to reduce the risk of future theft. As a consequence of the theft, his insurance premium will rise sharply.
Whilst this has been a tough time emotionally for Mark, he has been overwhelmed by the messages of support, offers of equipment donations or loans and a wonderful article in the Sunderland Echo. here
He is determined to carry on his mission of supporting communities, providing a creative outlet for individuals and promoting positive mental health.
The funding will enable Mark to replace the stolen drums.
Customise the new van with extra security and fittings
Cover the cost of personal possessions
If any additional money is raised, Mark will use it to deliver community drumming projects or donate to an African based charity.
As a group of friends who care about Mark and his work, we appreciate any donations you feel you can give, large or small.
Please spread the word by sharing this crowdfunder.
With love
Tracey, Nick, Alison and Frank
Mark has bought a new van. He is currently compiling an order for new drums to be made in Senegal.
The drums are being made in Dakar, Northern Senegal. Samantha Everitt (Teranga) has been importing drums since 2006. She has developed a strong relationship with a group of artisan makers in Dakar. Supporting traditional craftsmen for such a long time is extremely valuable to them and their families. Sam now lives in Senegal with her Senegalese husband.
These djembes are made by Babacar. The drums are loaded into a container and shipped to the UK.
These colourful djembe hats are made by Lamanara who is from Conakry in Guinea
Mark is a musician and teacher. He has worked for the education charity Workers Education Association (WEA) since 2008 and been teaching since 2004. He teaches West African drumming to community groups across the North East. On Monday 13th January, Mark's van and a significant quantity of drums were stolen. Mark was due to teach his regular session at Fulwell Resource centre for adults with special needs when he discovered his van and drums missing from a street in Ashbrooke, Sunderland. Amongst the stolen items were two teaching drums made for Mark in Guinea, West Africa in 2009. In all 17 drums were stolen including 5 drums made in Mali in 2004. As Mark imported a large batch directly, the drum maker bought some land and build his house for his family and so these drums had particular sentimental value. All the drums are unique hand made instruments with their own stories.
There were also instruments and equipment used for people with special needs. There was a guitar and hard case which was given to Mark by his late brother which is irreplaceable.
Unfortunately, Mark's instrument insurance cover does not cover the full value of the drums.
The van insurance claim has been settled now as a total loss and again does not cover the full value. Working with a friend, Mark built extensive storage and fully insulated the van to store the drums safely. His personal property was not covered by insurance including outdoor clothing, walking boots and camping equipment.
In order to continue teaching his classes, Mark is hiring a van and using remaining drums and equipment but needs to replace the missing stock as soon as possible. If he can raise sufficient money in time he can buy drums directly from a workshop in Senegal and have them shipped to the UK, ensuring fair trade and good quality drums for his students.
Mark now has to source and buy a new van, fit it out appropriately and invest in security measures to reduce the risk of future theft. As a consequence of the theft, his insurance premium will rise sharply.
Whilst this has been a tough time emotionally for Mark, he has been overwhelmed by the messages of support, offers of equipment donations or loans and a wonderful article in the Sunderland Echo. here
He is determined to carry on his mission of supporting communities, providing a creative outlet for individuals and promoting positive mental health.
The funding will enable Mark to replace the stolen drums.
Customise the new van with extra security and fittings
Cover the cost of personal possessions
If any additional money is raised, Mark will use it to deliver community drumming projects or donate to an African based charity.
As a group of friends who care about Mark and his work, we appreciate any donations you feel you can give, large or small.
Please spread the word by sharing this crowdfunder.
With love
Tracey, Nick, Alison and Frank
Fundraising team (3)
Tracey West
Organizer
England
Mark Barfoot
Beneficiary
Nick Paton
Team member
Frank Styles
Team member