GoFundMe set up by Cambridge Masons for member who lost home, business in Maui fires

Recovery efforts following Maui’s deadly wildfires have poured into the island state from across the globe, with even Massachusetts residents and organizations leading their own personal missions for loved ones in need.

One of those affected is tattoo artist Bob Vanderberg, whose home and business Neptune’s Den Tattoo in Lahaina were among the 2,200 structures lost. The business’ Facebook page said that it “was engulfed in flames and flattened along with the rest of Front Street and much of Lahaina town.”

Out of Cambridge, one of Amicable Lodge, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons’ members Micah Sieber of Norwood set up a GoFundMe page to help out Vanderberg. Established in 1805, the oldest Masonic Lodge in Cambridge is “comprised of a vital blend of open-minded, experienced and young, enthusiastic Masons,” according to its website.

“This fundraiser is set up by Amicable Lodge on behalf of our brother Bob Vanderberg who has lost his home and place of employment in the devastating Maui wildfires,” Sieber wrote. “Donations will go directly to Bob for the immediate needs he has as the recovery from the fires continues.”

The fundraiser was set up on Friday, Aug. 11, and as of this writing has received 53 donations raising $8,871 — very close to the fundraiser’s $10,000 goal.

The top three donors submitted $1,000 to help Vanderberg, followed by three donors who gave $500 and five who turned in $200, among others.

Along with the fundraiser supporting Vanderberg, the business shared a GoFundMe organized by Neptune’s Den Tattoo’s co-owner Heidi Tyler. Donations will be divvied up to go to Tyler’s husband Eric, Vanderberg, Dani Fravega and Shelby Schweitzer, she wrote on GoFundMe

“Several of our artists lost their homes, pets, and all their possessions in the fires and we have all suddenly lost our jobs,” Tyler wrote. “And one of them has a wedding coming up. Tattoo artists are not eligible for unemployment and these people are our ohana (family).”

This other fundraiser, with a $12,000 goal, has so far made $10,516 from 100 donations. Thirteen commenters shared their support and images of their ink from Neptune’s Den Tattoo.

“These people at this shop are amazing!!” wrote Kristina Vasquez, who on Aug. 12 donated $50. “Genuine, honest loving people. Had the best time and was able to have Bob do an amazing giraffe tattoo on me and Eric did a 14-hour kickass tattoo on my husband’s arm as well!! Stay Strong XOXOX.”

To support Vanderberg, go to Seiber’s GoFundMe page at the link here. To help Vanderberg and his colleagues, here is the link to Tyler’s GoFundMe page.