John Wasik is not just an author and journalist; he is deeply intertwined with the history and mission of the Citizen Advocacy Center. CAC founder Theresa Amato spearheaded a lawsuit that helped a magazine he was associated with access information about government pension funding. His ties with the Center have held strong ever since.

Wasik has spent three decades on the CAC’s Advisory Committee. His commitment to the organization stems from his belief that government institutions need to function in public view.

“I have tried to help CAC, in any way I can, increase transparency in government,” Wasik said.

One of the key learnings Wasik acquired through his association with CAC is the significance of the Freedom of Information Act. Understanding his legal rights to obtain documents held by a government entity empowered him to make requests for records himself, contributing to a broader mission of promoting accountability and access to information. 

The impact of CAC on Wasik’s life and career extends beyond professional realms. Inspired by the CAC ethos, Wasik embarked on a personal journey to champion democracy at a grassroots level. He established the Citizen Action Project, a non-profit organization focused on civic engagement and advocacy within his county.  

Wasik also attributes his decision to run for government office to the values instilled by the Center. Currently serving as a board member and forest preserve commissioner in Lake County, Wasik’s civic contributions stand as a testament to the enduring impact of CAC in fostering active citizenship and participatory democracy.