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The Musings Of A Houston Fundraiser
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Introducing: Juliana M. Burke
After much joy, celebration, and a little paperwork, I’m excited to share that I am officially changing my name from Juliana Weissbein to Juliana Burke following my marriage.
While my last name is changing, the values, relationships, and work that matter most to me remain the same. I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who has been part of my journey so far, and I look forward to continuing this next chapter under my new name.
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
2 days ago1 min read


Philanthropy Cannot Claim Neutrality While Silencing Civil Rights Organizations
The recent decision by major donor-advised fund sponsors (Fidelity and Vanguard) to freeze grants to the Southern Poverty Law Center is not just a bureaucratic policy dispute. It is a...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
May 83 min read


What Dolores Huerta Is Teaching Fundraisers About Accountability
Dolores Huerta’s recent public statement about César Chávez is not just a historic revelation. It is a moral intervention. After decades of silence, Huerta said she was sexually abused by Chávez and explained that she had stayed quiet because she believed speaking out might harm the farmworker movement they helped build. She has made clear that her silence was rooted in protection of the cause, not absence of harm. That distinction matters. It matters politically, institution
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Mar 195 min read


Carrying the Voice: What Andrea Gibson Taught Me About Fundraising and the Power of Showing Up
There are voices you don’t just hear—you carry. Andrea Gibson was one of those voices. A poet, a warrior and a weaver of radical tenderness. They didn’t just write poems—they wrote blueprints for how to feel more fully, how to witness pain and joy without flinching. Their passing has left a tear in the fabric of many hearts, mine included. And yet, their legacy continues to pulse with life.
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Jul 15, 20254 min read


Raising Funds, Building Community: My Journey with the Trot for Trans Visibility
As a professional fundraiser, I’ve spent years working behind the scenes to support causes that make a difference in our world. I’ve rai...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Mar 31, 20256 min read


The Impossible Math of Philanthropy: A Response to the New York Times Article
Philanthropy, in its ideal form, is about more than just charity. It is about solving systemic issues, addressing inequality, and creating a
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Feb 4, 20255 min read


Honoring a Legacy of Leadership: A Tribute to Cecile Richards
Yesterday, the world lost an indomitable force for social justice and equality: Cecile Richards, former CEO of Planned Parenthood, my boss,
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Jan 21, 20253 min read


The Weight of This Moment: Reflections on Kamala Harris, the Election, and the Fight for Justice
The weight of this moment is heavy. As I sit with the reality of Kamala Harris not winning the election, I can’t help but feel a profound...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Nov 6, 20244 min read


From Concrete Jungles to Data Highways: The Parallel Journeys of Moving and Migrating
Leaving New York City behind is akin to letting go of a familiar, fast-paced rhythm. The city's energy, much like a well-established...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Jul 19, 20243 min read


Queer Inclusion at Your Nonprofit: Inside and Out
I had the distinct pleasure of moderating a discussion yesterday on Queer Inclusion with 3 sterling examples of queer nonprofit leadership -
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Mar 8, 20243 min read


Outraged and Helpless: A Personal Response to Alabama's IVF Ruling
As someone currently undergoing the emotional rollercoaster of in vitro fertilization (IVF), the recent ruling emerging from Alabama hits...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Feb 22, 20245 min read


Navigating the Ethical Terrain: Insights from Rogare's Report on Artificial Intelligence and Fundraising
As the fundraising industry continues to evolve at warp-speed, nonprofits must seek innovative ways to engage donors, streamline processes..
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Feb 14, 20244 min read


Blockchain in Philanthropy: Pioneering Transparency and Traceability in Donations
In an era defined by technological advancements, blockchain has emerged as a disruptive force, revolutionizing industries across the...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Jan 22, 20243 min read


Looking Back & Cycling Off: My Time With AFP
It's true. After seven years and countless memories, I am cycling out of my leadership positions with the Association of Fundraising...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Nov 24, 202310 min read


An In-Depth Exploration of Philanthropy and Justice: A Review of "Just Giving" by Rob Reich
Rob Reich's "Just Giving: Why Philanthropy Is Failing Democracy and How It Can Do Better" is a thought-provoking examination of the...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Nov 14, 20232 min read


AFP LEAD Takes Philly!
Last week, I had the honor of attending my second AFP LEAD conference, and, as expected, it was an incredibly enriching experience...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Oct 23, 20234 min read


Radical Reflections: 3 Ways to Unlock Inclusive Fundraising
Inclusivity has become a crucial aspect of community engagement and donor relations. This is exactly why I enjoyed the “Don’t Just Slap A Fl
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Sep 6, 20233 min read


Watch Out Houston, TX: Here I Come!
I'm excited to share some news with all of you – I'm embarking on a new chapter of my life as I move from the vibrant city of Austin to...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Aug 25, 20232 min read


Building a Fundraising Database: Navigating Nuance and Embracing Fluidity in Binary Systems
In the dynamic landscape of nonprofit organizations and social justice, fundraising stands as a critical conduit for driving change, fosteri
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Aug 10, 20234 min read


Recommended Reading: Philanthropy Revolution: How to Inspire Donors, Build Relationships, and Make a
Philanthropy Revolution: How to Inspire Donors, Build Relationships, and Make a Difference is a thought-provoking and comprehensive guide...
Juliana M. Burke CFRE
Jun 26, 20233 min read
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