This project is about mental health. I understand that men's mental health is a somewhat vexed issue but it affects so many. It is quite a humbling experience to be creating this page and asking for assistance because it's not something I would do. But I need help.
I've come to understand over the course of my adult life that my general well-being is linked to doing things that are worthwhile, be it helping someone out, doing something useful for my kids, getting involved in causes that have a positive effect on others.
I want to tackle something big that I know will allow me to focus on something other than what's going on in my head. My octogenarian father bought me an old car knowing it would give me the type of challenge (therapy) I need...my personal men's shed to share with others.
My aim is to transform this old car into a working electric vehicle. I understand this sounds quite "blokey" but I don't know many people who do not have a childhood memory based around a car they had or that their parents had. Certainly, for me, family trips in our station wagon were a highlight.
Bringing an old car into the 21st century does several things in my opinion. It has the potential to bring people together because it can help them focus on something other than what's bothering them, it gives people a chance to learn about something new, it preserves part of history by bringing it into the 21st century.
The car is a 1951 Ford Consul MK1 (called 'Godfrey' after my dad). I have a car but I don't have funds to do anything. I can do a lot of the manual work myself and with the help of others but there are things that'll cost a pretty penny (motor, control system, batteries, new suspension, drivetrain, and probably other things).
Some friends suggested I try crowdfunding...so here I am. If you are a person who feels like chipping in to help a random bloke with mental health issues please consider it. The only things I can offer are updates and progress photos via a blog and/or Instagram.
For people who contribute, I'll endeavour to have their name written on the driver's side door in acknowledgment of your unconditional generosity. If you live in Sydney or are visiting after the project is complete I may even be able to give you a ride.
I'm raising funds for a project to bring something into the 21st century. The ultimate beneficiaries will be those who help and gain wisdom from learning something new. It may even improve their wellbeing.
Funds Banked To
Adam Butler and Carolyn Gates
Campaign Creator
Adam Butler
Concord West, NSW
Wed, 14 Nov 2018
Chris McGreevy
$ 50
Investing here in some mechanics education. I expect to come by to see how it looks!
Fri, 28 Sep 2018
Anthony Bertuccio
$ 100
Hi Mr B,
Terrys electrical will be glad to help out with wires, relays, cable ties, and standard fittings where possible,
Yes very true as a middle age male I do have many memories of sitting in a car with no air conditioning and only one speaker in the front dash, oh and you had to lock your own door when getting out !
As you know it was a pleasure picking Up the Godfrey and I was amazed to see people waving at us .
Can’t wait to see it on the road.
Fri, 28 Sep 2018
gary caldarola
$ 50
Great idea Adam!! Very happy to contribute financially, mentally and physically to the project. Yell out if you need a hand.
If an electric car was driving itself in the forest and no one was around what sound would it make? ( )
Thu, 27 Sep 2018
Jack Ault
$ 50
A worthy campaign, Adam. Hope this helps reach your target! :)
Wed, 26 Sep 2018
Christine
$ 50
I had a dream last night that I was a car muffler. I woke up exhausted. That joke's to help with your mental health... I hope... The donation is because I love you!
I'm raising funds for a project to bring something into the 21st century. The ultimate beneficiaries will be those who help and gain wisdom from learning something new. It may even improve their wellbeing.
Investing here in some mechanics education. I expect to come by to see how it looks!