Partner of the Month: Clare Wilkinson
We are thrilled to welcome in 2019 by recognizing Clare Wilkinson as SVP’s Partner of the Month! Clare, along with her husband Simon and their two sons, moved from the United Kingdom in 2017, and she continues to work for one of the UK’s largest independent grantmakers remotely. With over 15 years experience in the philanthropic space, Clare was drawn to SVP’s capacity building model. Clare was able to put her skills to good use last year by partnering with the Latino Network. With Clare’s help, SVP Partners and Latino Network staff designed and implemented a feasibility study to determine the demand and feasibility of funding for an *“Affiliate Model” to scale the Juntos Aprendemos program statewide. Clare distilled the data and crafted the final report, which will be shared with Latino Network’s Board of Directors this month. In her spare time, Clare enjoys spending time at the Oregon coast with her family. She also recently joined a choir to fulfill her love of singing. According to Clare, this saves her family from having to listen to her sing in the car!
AN INTERVIEW WITH CLARE:
Why did you join SVP?
As a newcomer to Portland, I was keen to connect to the nonprofit community here and in a meaningful way that would enable me to use my experience as a grantmaker and philanthropy consultant. Joining SVP as a Partner and working as part of a team with a nonprofit felt a natural fit.
How has SVP helped you make a bigger difference in the community
Playing even a small part in helping such a valuable nonprofit to plan for growth and, ultimately, to give life-changing opportunities for greater number of families makes me feel more connected to the community. There is so much to do!
What is your vision for early childhood in our community?
I’m sure it has been said many times before, however my vision is simple -- that every child should have access to free, quality education and opportunities to learn. It is shocking that we are still having to say this and fight for it in the 21st century.
What has been most rewarding thus far and why?
Working on Latino Network’s feasibility study gave me a valuable insight into early education (pre-kinder) opportunities in Oregon and the challenges that communities, nonprofits, and also funders face. My background is in helping nonprofits to tackle strategic challenges so it has been incredibly gratifying to be able to use that experience here in my new hometown. I’m looking forward to my next role!
*The affiliate partnership model is where new program services will be delivered via qualified external partners rooted within Latino communities under the guidance and oversight of Latino Network.