Hi everyone, my name is Michele, and for the past six and a half years I have been honored to facilitate a free community drum circle that meets each week in the Greater Lansing area of Michigan. The circle welcomes people of all ages and walks of life to experience the healing power of rhythm and the joy of creating music together.

The drum circle could never happen without my 2011 Mercury Mariner, affectionately known as the Drum-mobile, which carries all the drums and percussion instruments to and from our weekly gatherings. Without it, I wouldn’t be able to host this uplifting event that so many people in our community have come to love.

Sadly, the Drum-mobile now needs a critical repair. The front subframe is badly rusted and could fail at any time, making the car unsafe to drive. My mechanic warned me that if the subframe collapses, the front wheel could fold in under the car — a frightening thought I live with every time I’m on the road.

In addition to the subframe, the suspension bushings/control arms must also be replaced at the same time in order to safely complete the repair. The front section of the exhaust system also needs to be replaced.

The first repair shop quoted me nearly $5,000, which I simply cannot afford. After searching for better options, I found a mechanic who can replace the subframe for about $840 in labor if I provide the part myself. A used replacement subframe costs around $500–650. Based on the estimates I’ve received so far for the subframe, suspension components, and front exhaust, I expect the total cost of these repairs to come to around $2,700–$3,000, which is beyond what I can manage on my limited disability income.

✨ That’s why I’m turning to my community. ✨

Repairing the Drum-mobile isn’t just about fixing a car — it’s about keeping the drum circle alive. For so many participants, the drum circle offers a sense of community, connection, stress relief, and friendship. Several people have told me it’s the highlight of their week.

Your donation, no matter the size, will help:

• Repair the Drum-mobile and keep it safely on the road.

• Ensure the drums and instruments make it to our weekly gatherings.

• Keep this free and welcoming community event going.

By helping repair the Drum-mobile, your support will ensure that our weekly drum circle can continue bringing people together for many years to come.

If you can give $10, $25, $50, or more, it would mean the world to me. Even if you can’t donate, simply sharing this campaign would be another wonderful way to help. My brother Brian is helping me with this fundraiser, so the donations will temporarily go to him and he will transfer the funds to me to cover the Drum-mobile repair.

I am deeply grateful for every donation, every share, and every encouraging word. Thank you for helping me save the Drum-mobile so I can continue to share my love of drumming with my local community.

With love and gratitude,

Michele

P.S. You can visit our website if you'd like to learn more about our community drum circle.