Knowing Clarice Locke was an honor and a pleasure, and she will be deeply missed by all Social Venture Partners that have come to (know) her and Jack. When I recently sat down to talk with Jack about why SVP was important to Clarice, his reflections reminded me about the importance of relationships at SVP. In many ways, relationships are at the core of everything we do. Clarice and Jack have been faithful attendees of every SVP event. Their presence demonstrated steadiness, thoughtfulness, and commitment.
As I think of Clarice, the words “Independent” and “Leader” come to mind. When Jack and Clarice got married, they had two college degrees, one job, and an eight-year-old Chevy between them. Jack likes to say the kids started coming quickly. Clarice not only raised the kids, but consistently volunteered as a leader in the PTA and for their swim teams. While their kids were in college, Clarice sold real estate to help pay for school. Jack remembers her finding a house for a good deal, and helping her buy it in her name to establish credit. They were perfect partners—as Jack walked and worked alongside Clarice, his presence urged on the development of the independent leadership that defined her.
Joining SVP has multiple reasons for each of us Partners. When Clarice and Jack joined, they were both eager to contribute. Clarice was especially excited about the ways she could serve and engage. With a particular interest in healthcare, she was stimulated by the difference she could make at Nurse Family Partnership especially, along with the other programs SVP supported over the years she and Jack were involved.
Clarice valued being able to make a difference, and she always did. She valued being friends with others younger or older. Her life showed us the value of not only the good that SVP strives to do, but also how we change each other as we work side by side. While I speak for myself, I know my voice reflects that of our entire Partnership—over 100 individuals ever grateful for our friend Clarice, and for the one-of-a-kind difference she was and made.
