Support Adele’s Transition & Creative Work

After years of pouring my heart, time, and creativity into my role on the Marketing & Communications team at Hennepin Avenue UMC, I’ve made the very difficult decision to step away from this position in order to prioritize my mental and physical health. It’s the right decision—and it’s also a leap into the unknown.

For a long time, I’ve been sprinting to keep up with the demands of work. During the pandemic, instead of slowing down like many others, my workload intensified. I taught myself video editing on the fly so I could produce online worship services and create meaningful digital experiences. That season never really ended—and since then, I’ve been operating in survival mode. Now, I’m choosing to stop treading water and start charting a new path forward.

As I discern what’s next professionally, I hope to reconnect with my creativity, experiment with freelance work (photography, videography, graphic design, digital art—and maybe even commissioned wood or lino prints!), and thoughtfully transition into a new full-time role. I’ve been employed at the same organization for a long time, and I want to take this next step with intention and care.

Nearly all the equipment I’ve used over the past several years—my camera, computer, and creative tools—belongs to the organization I’m leaving. My personal gear is well past its prime and can no longer support the kind of creative work I hope to pursue. I’ll need to return the equipment on my final day, and I’m hoping to begin this transition in earnest as soon as possible.

That’s why I’m reaching out with this GoFundMe. I’m seeking to raise $6,500 to purchase a new camera and computer setup—specifically, a Mac that can handle professional video editing, and a Sony A7S III with a couple of lenses like the ones I’ve had access to at work. These tools will allow me to say yes to freelance opportunities, support myself during this in-between season, and step into the next chapter of my life with the equipment I need to rebuild.

If you’ve ever wondered how you might thank me for my time on staff or support me in this next season, this is one meaningful way to do just that. Every gift—no matter the size—makes a difference. And even if you can’t give right now, sharing this campaign with others would mean the world to me.

I’m stepping into this time with a curious heart—hoping to explore how creative work can be both artful and impactful, grounded in beauty while lifting up stories that matter. I’ll be sharing updates along the way—both to keep you posted and to invite you into the process of rebuilding, discovering, and dreaming forward.

I know not everyone has the ability to ask for support like this, and I don’t take that lightly. I’m deeply grateful just to have the chance to share my story—and to those who choose to walk with me into this risky, hopeful, and necessary next step: thank you.

With love and gratitude,

Adele

P.S. As part of this transition, I’ll also be testing the waters to see if freelance work might be a sustainable path forward. So if you’re looking for someone to produce a video, take event photos, design a graphic or invitation, offer communications advice, or even turn your family into a digital art portrait—I’m your person! Hiring me for freelance work is just as appreciated as donating.