On a bright spring afternoon, Clove Alliance staff, board members, volunteers, and supporters gathered to do something truly special—we dedicated our headquarters to a woman who gave so much of her time, energy, and heart to her community and this organization: Rebecca “Becky” Schatz.

I’m moved as I try to put into words how much Rebecca meant to us. She wasn’t just a board member. She wasn’t just our treasurer. She was a mentor, a leader, and a dear friend. She was someone who believed in the power of community, the importance of service, and the mission of Clove Alliance. That’s why, from this day forward, our headquarters at 1440 W. Court St. in Kankakee will bear her name—a permanent tribute to her service.

A Pillar of Strength and Compassion

Rebecca first got involved with Clove Alliance more than a decade ago, stepping into a board leadership role at a time we needed her most. She brought with her a sharp mind, a deep sense of responsibility, and a heart that always sought to serve others.

One of the moments I will never forget is when she encouraged me to apply for the role of Executive Director in 2014. She went beyond being my best friend and became my mentor and biggest cheerleader. She guided me through challenges, encouraged me in difficult times, and always reminded me why the work we do is so important.

Rebecca was a steady hand during turbulent times. Illinois’ 2016 budget crisis was a particularly scary period for organizations like ours, but Rebecca never wavered. Her knowledge and expertise allowed KC-CAS to weather the devastating financial impact. As our board treasurer, she worked tirelessly to keep us afloat, ensuring that survivors in our community continued to have a place to turn to for healing and support.

But her impact went beyond finances and board meetings. She was someone who led by example—whether it was planting flowers outside our office, baking treats to brighten our staff’s day, or rolling up her sleeves at fundraising events. Rebecca made Clove Alliance and the survivors we serve a priority in her busy life.

A Gift That Honors Her Memory

After Rebecca passed, her twin sister, Julie Belan, has found ways to honor her. She says, “Rebecca was a woman of deep empathy, commitment, and compassion, qualities that defined her every action…—she was dedicated to people. And that, more than anything, is what made her extraordinary.” We are thankful that Julie regularly supports Clove Alliance’s fundraising efforts under the “Friends of Rebecca Schatz Memorial”, ensuring her spirit lives on. When she learned that a donation could help us pay off the mortgage on our headquarters, she felt strongly that it was a wonderful way to continue Rebecca’s legacy.

“This donation felt like the perfect way to keep her spirit alive,” Julie shared when reflecting on her decision. “This gift is not just about paying off a mortgage—it’s about ensuring Clove Alliance can fully focus on its mission, just as Rebecca always wanted. Knowing that this space will continue to serve survivors in her name means the world to me and my family.”

“Knowing that this space will continue to serve survivors in her name means the world to me and my family.”

—Julie Belan

Julie’s incredible generosity means that, for the first time in our organization’s history, we no longer have to worry about mortgage payments for our headquarters. That money can now go directly toward services for survivors—counseling, advocacy, and education programs that prevent sexual abuse. It’s truly an extension of Rebecca’s efforts on our board.

“Rebecca worked behind the scenes, ensuring that everything ran smoothly, that no one was left behind, and that the organization had the financial resources it needed to thrive”, Julie says. “Her leadership wasn’t about accolades or recognition—it was about making a difference, about helping others. And I know she would be deeply humbled to have this building named in her honor”.

Carrying Rebecca’s Legacy Forward

As I stood before the crowd at the dedication ceremony, looking at the people whose lives Rebecca had touched, I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude.

Rebecca believed in lifting others up. She believed in making the world better, not just with words, but with action. She showed us what it means to serve with kindness, strength, and unwavering dedication.

And now, with her name on our building, we are reminded every day of the example she set, to continue her work, to fight for survivors, and to create a world free from sexual violence.

Rebecca’s story is proof that one person can make a difference. She wasn’t someone with unlimited resources or endless free time—she was someone who simply cared and acted on it. And that’s something all of us can do.

Get Involved

If Rebecca’s story inspires you, I encourage you to find a way to get involved. Whether it’s volunteering, making a donation, or simply spreading awareness about our mission, there is always a way to make an impact!

To learn more about how you can support Clove Alliance, visit www.clovealliance.org or call (815) 932-7273.

Rebecca gave us so much. Now, it’s our turn to carry her light forward.