It is with deep regret that I inform you of the passing of Clara Fox, a great visionary, leader and "houser" whose career spanned six decades and touched millions of families both in New York and nationwide. She passed away on November 9 at age 90.
Clara was the co-chair of the National Housing Conference's (NHC) regional affiliate the New York Housing Conference (NYHC), a lifetime member of NHC and the Director Emeritus of Settlement Housing Fund. She also worked diligently each year at planning and organizing the NYHC and NHC Annual Awards Luncheon in New York. We are all deeply mourning her loss.
Clara originated the idea of combining low- and moderate-income housing with social programs and ran the first leadership training programs for new owners of middle-income cooperative housing. She began her career in the field of early childhood education. She held numerous positions in government and nonprofit organizations, wrote extensively and lectured frequently.
Until the very end of her life, she was an active housing advocate, especially concerned about the lack of middle income housing in New York City. She had little patience with leaders who did not work hard enough to achieve effective housing programs. She was generous with her time, and mentored her successors. We will especially miss her way with words and her wit. Without question Clara was always the brightest bulb in the room.
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