Autism support
Therapies, sensory-friendly spaces, and community belonging for children and young people.
Autism & education · Tennessee
Where every mind matters
We fund autism services and education so children, families, and teachers have room to thrive.
Learning, together
Creative work
Classroom community
Our purpose
Mission
Two linked purposes: autism support and education. We fund work that helps people on the spectrum learn, belong, and grow — and that helps families and teachers walk that path with them.
Education
Specialized schools, educators, and tools that respect how each student thinks and learns.
Family stability
Practical help so a diagnosis does not become a crisis of money, isolation, or lost opportunity.
How we work
Grantmaking focus
We are a non-operating private foundation. We do not run clinics or schools. We make grants to organizations that already do this work well.
Direct services
Therapies, after-school programs, sensory-friendly recreation, and transition support.
Specialized education
Schools, classrooms, and training for students with autism and related learning differences.
Caregiver support
Respite, navigation help, and education for families building a lifetime of care.
For organizations
What we look for
Concrete work, close to families. We start in Tennessee and communities we know, and remain open to exceptional programs elsewhere.
- Clear need. The program serves autistic children, youth, or their families in a defined way.
- Capable partner. A nonprofit or school with accountability and a track record.
- Respect for dignity. Every mind treated as capable — not as a problem to be fixed.
- Stewardship. A realistic budget and a one-year plan for the grant.
Why this foundation
A family commitment
Formed in Tennessee in 2026 by the Cheng family. Rooted in lived experience: raising a child on the autism spectrum, navigating schools and care, and wanting better options for other families.
A lasting grantmaking vehicle. 501(c)(3) recognition is in process with the IRS.
Contact
Write to us
Organizations, advisors, and friends of the work can reach us here. Please do not send confidential medical or student records in a first message.
The Cheng Foundation
thechengfoundation.com
Tennessee, United States
info@thechengfoundation.com