Good intentions don’t excuse bad oversight. Illinois taxpayers deserve transparency, results, and value—not cozy deals with nonprofit groups that don’t deliver.

Joshua T. Atkinson believes that every dollar the state spends—whether on a business, a government agency, or a nonprofit—must be tied to clear outcomes and public accountability. While many nonprofits do vital work, far too many operate in the shadows of Springfield politics, shielded by tax-exempt status and political connections.

The Problem: Unaccountable Partnerships, Wasted Resources

• Millions in taxpayer dollars are funneled to nonprofits through vague grants, unmonitored contracts, and backdoor “partnerships”

• Little to no oversight exists over how money is spent, what results are achieved, or who benefits

• Nonprofits with political ties are allowed to grow unchecked while delivering minimal or unproven impact

• Resources like government buildings, land, and services are often given away under the guise of community partnerships—without proper scrutiny

• Meanwhile, small towns and working families see no return on their public investment

It’s not just bad policy. It’s a broken system by design—one that protects insiders while letting taxpayers pick up the tab.

Atkinson’s Plan: Restore Integrity to Public Spending

1. Full Transparency for Nonprofit Contracts and Partnerships

Require any nonprofit receiving public funds, support, or resources to disclose how funds are used, what outcomes are targeted, and how success will be measured.

2. Independent Audits for State-Funded Nonprofits

Mandate regular performance audits for any nonprofit receiving state or federal grant funding—especially in districts with repeated underperformance or failed projects.

3. End Politically Shielded "Pass-Through" Deals

Crack down on the use of nonprofits as pass-through vehicles for state funds, particularly when used to avoid direct accountability or competitive bidding.

4. Return Surplus Land and Resources to Local Control

Reclaim underused or mismanaged assets tied to failed nonprofit partnerships and ensure they’re returned to county or municipal oversight for community-driven use.

5. Enforce Results-Based Funding

Tie all nonprofit funding to clear metrics and clawback provisions if goals are not met.

"Being a nonprofit doesn’t mean you’re above scrutiny. If public money is involved, the public has every right to know how it’s used and whether it’s making a difference."

— Joshua T. Atkinson

Take Action

• Volunteer to stand up for accountability and fair government

• Donate to support a campaign that protects taxpayers, not insiders

• Share your story if your community has seen broken partnerships or wasteful spending

• Vote for Joshua T. Atkinson and restore trust in public service