Stephen Martin, Jr., CEO at CPASS Foundation | cpassfoundation.org
Stephen Martin, Jr., CEO at CPASS Foundation | cpassfoundation.org
This appropriation represents state-level funding authorized by lawmakers, reflecting what was approved in the budget, not necessarily disbursed. The funds cover only State of Illinois support and exclude federal, local, or other public sources.
Founded in 2018 by Stephen A. Martin Jr., Creating Pathways And Access For Student Success Foundation states that its mission is: “CPASS provides STEMM programming for underrepresented Illinois students while impacting policy change, providing access to valuable STEMM programs, empowering their STEMM identity, supporting them to excel as advocates, and lead social justice efforts in their home communities.”
You can learn more about the organization at its website.
However, a Chicago City Wire analysis found that IRS filings frequently contain discrepancies when compared with publicly disclosed government grant reports and budgets.
Creating Pathways And Access For Student Success Foundation is one of hundreds of nonprofits across Illinois that receive substantial support from state taxpayers while also fundraising privately.
In 2025, Illinois lawmakers introduced House Bill 1266, also known as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Act. The proposal would create a new oversight body within the Office of the Auditor General tasked with identifying cost-saving measures, reviewing agency performance, and advising on audit priorities. If passed, DOGE could bring additional scrutiny and performance evaluation to taxpayer-funded organizations.
According to ProPublica, Illinois has more than 78,000 active tax-exempt organizations, including nearly 60,000 classified as charitable nonprofits. In their most recent IRS filings, these groups reported a combined revenue exceeding $156 billion.
| Term | Name | Title |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-2024 | Eric J Whitaker | Chairman |
| 2024-2024 | Laura Christine Lucero | Director |
| 2024-2024 | Stephen Martin | Executive Director |
| 2024-2024 | Terry Mason | Secretary |
| 2024-2024 | William Albert Mcdade | Treasurer |
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