Honoring John Tate: A Legacy of Compassion and Change
At Clove Alliance, we believe in honoring the pioneers who have shaped our mission to support survivors of sexual violence. As we commemorate Black History Month, we celebrate the life and work of John Tate, a visionary leader whose unwavering dedication transformed survivor services in Kankakee County and beyond.
A Vision for Change
In the 1980s, John Tate worked as a Police Social Worker in Kankakee, Illinois. During this time, he witnessed firsthand the struggles survivors faced when seeking support. The closest rape crisis center was in Olympia Fields—30 miles away—forcing survivors to endure additional hardships just to access counseling and advocacy. John took it upon himself to personally drive survivors to their appointments but knew something had to be done to steadfastly bridge this gap. Tate and his wife, Ruth, took action. They partnered with an established crisis center and trained as advocates, laying the foundation for what would become Clove Alliance.
“John saw a need and refused to let survivors go without the support they deserved,” says Tracey Noe Slach, CEO of Clove Alliance. “His vision was clear: survivors should have access to care in their own community. That credo is still foundational to our work today.”
“His vision was clear: survivors should have access to care in their own community. That credo is still foundational to our work today.”
Tracey Noe Slach, CEO of Clove Alliance
Image: John and Ruth Tate
Building a Lifeline for Survivors
In 1987, Tate spearheaded the creation of YW-CASA (Young Women’s Center Against Sexual Assault), offering crisis intervention and a hotline for survivors. Within months, the organization became an independent nonprofit—Kankakee County Center Against Sexual Assault (KC-CASA)—expanding services to include counseling, legal advocacy, and prevention education. Tate’s dedication secured a grant from the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault (ICASA), solidifying KC-CASA’s place among the state’s essential rape crisis centers.
“John Tate’s compassion and commitment are inspiring,” says Carmen King, Director of Clinical Operations at Clove Alliance. “Because of his advocacy, thousands of survivors have found hope and healing here.”
A Lasting Impact
Tate’s legacy didn’t stop at KC-CASA. He was a champion for all crime victims, ensuring they were seen, heard, and supported. His efforts extended to the Victims Assistance Center, where he helped survivors navigate legal systems, secure compensation, and access essential resources. His commitment was rooted in a deep belief that no one should have to walk the path to healing alone.
Even after his passing in 2007, Tate’s influence endures. In 2020, KC-CASA rebranded as Clove Alliance, reflecting our continued growth, expanded reach, and unwavering commitment to serving survivors throughout the local area. Today, Clove Alliance stands as a testament to Tate’s vision, offering advocacy, counseling, legal services, and prevention to those affected by sexual violence and the greater community in Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford counties.
Continuing the Mission
John Tate’s story is one of resilience, determination, and compassion. As we reflect on his contributions during Black History Month, we also recognize the ongoing need to advocate for survivors, particularly in marginalized communities. His work reminds us that justice and healing should be accessible to all.
“John’s legacy teaches us that change starts with one person seeing a need and taking action,” Noe Slach adds. “At Clove Alliance, we are proud to carry his mission forward.”
As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor John Tate—a leader, advocate, and changemaker. His impact continues to inspire, ensuring that survivors receive the care and support they deserve, just as he envisioned decades ago.
If you share John’s vision of hope and healing for survivors in our community, please donate today or explore other ways to get involved here.
