Please feel free to join in a last minute rush to donate!
Latest News:
I leave for Havana on April 22nd and my preparations are now nearly complete. As you can see I have exceeded my fundraising target, thanks to all your kind donations and support. I wish to thank in particular, Unite the Union, North West Region who made a substantial donation, and the staff, tutors, students and members of the WEA who have been raising small and large amounts to support the cause. Of particular note were Moyra and Tasneen and their students (See below) but also particular thanks to our supporters in Rochdale who organised an International Womens Day event and raised over £110. Thanks also to Pat Kynaston the WEA North West Regional Chairperson who made a dontation of £100. In addition I would like to thank the parishioners of St Michaels Roman Catholic Church in West Bromwich, West Midlands, who agreed to run a jumble sale to support the cause and raised £200. (Thanks Mum!)
The Background:
In April 2009 I am taking part in a 350 km cycle challenge around the island of Cuba, from Sancti Spititus, one of Cuba's seven original Spanish towns to Remedios on the Atlantic coast. The aim of the challenge is to raise money, for an educational charity, the Music Fund For Cuba, where the money raised will go towards purchasing a essential educational equipment for young Cuban schoolchildren and educational projects organised through the Cuban Ministry of Education.
I have worked in adult education for over 20 years. I am currently Regional Director of the Workers Educational Association - North West, based in Liverpool.
Obviously the cause of education in any setting is dear to my heart. But assisting people to access educational opportunities, to learn the delights of music and the arts, in a country where the people have been denied so much by an oppressive and unjust blockade of their economy by the USA, will be a privilege rather than a chore.
This is an annual fund-raising event organised by the Cuba Solidarity Campaign
As part of the event I have undertaken to raise a minimum sponsorship of £2,150.I am therefore requesting that you, the readers of this page, help in raising this substantial sum.
You could help in a number of ways:
1. By making a personal donation towards my sponsorship.
2. By working as a group with your organisation, for example, or with your class, if you are in adult education, and asking them if they would help as a group in my fundraising effort. They may for example commit to raise a set amount, such as £100, by March 2009.
3. By inviting me to talk to your organisation or group about the challenge and about the Music Fund for .
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Music Fund For Cuba gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
So please sponsor me now!
Many Thanks.
Greg Coyne
