WHAT
WE DO
WHAT
WE DO
Empowering the Autism Community
The Ted Lindsay Foundation (TLF) is a non-profit family foundation founded in 2001 by NHL legend Ted Lindsay and his wife Joanne. It was created with one mission: to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
TLF works to foster a world where individuals with autism are fully supported, empowered and included in all areas of life—from education and employment to community engagement and independent living.
RESEARCH
Our Mission in Action
The Ted Lindsay Foundation takes a multi-faceted approach to supporting the Autism Community—meeting immediate needs while contributing to long-term solutions. Our programs are rooted in inclusion, early intervention and lifelong development.
We support initiatives that:
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Inclusive programs that integrate individuals with autism into schools, workplaces, and communities
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Research initiatives that advance early detection, effective therapies and long-term care solutions
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Education and training to build life, communication, and employment skills
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Resources and support services for families and caregivers
The Ted Lindsay Foundation is proud to support organizations that are making a direct and meaningful impact in the autism community. Through our funding request process, we provide resources to programs that improve the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families. Click here to learn more.
Our Programs
The Ted Lindsay Foundation
HOPE Center at Beaumont Children's Hospital
The Ted Lindsay Foundation HOPE (Hands-On Parent Education)
Center provides evidence-based programs for children with autism and developmental disorders. Families receive hands-on training and work directly with behavioral specialists to improve communication, socialization, and life skills.
Key services include:
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CARE Program: Children with Autism Reaching Excellence – behavior-based intervention for preschoolers
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Toilet Learning Clinic: Intensive, behavior-analytic approach to toilet training
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Parent Workshops: Introductory and advanced trainings on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
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Individual Consultations: One-on-one sessions with licensed psychologists and board-certified behavior analysts
Joanne & Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services at OUCARES
OUCARES
OUCARES (Oakland University Center for Autism Research, Education & Support) improves the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families through inclusive programming that spans from early childhood through adulthood.
With support from a $1 million gift from the Ted Lindsay Foundation, OUCARES has expanded services for teens and adults including:
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Recreational programs: Yoga, swimming, basketball, bowling, and more
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Social skill groups: Teen social clubs, women on the spectrum groups, and adult connections
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Employment readiness: A 10-week Pre-Employment Skills Training Program for adults with ASD
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Family support: Enrichment events, parent workshops, and expert presentations
OUCARES is a powerful partner in building confidence, skills and lifelong connections.
The Ted Lindsay Foundation proudly funds groundbreaking autism research
focused on early detection, individualized treatment and therapeutic breakthroughs.
Johnson Center for Child Health & Development
A trusted research partner of the foundation, the Johnson Center is at the forefront of autism science—exploring both biological and environmental factors contributing to ASD. With our support, they continue to produce reports that drive forward innovation and understanding.
Spotlight: Dr. Laura Hewitson
Dr. Laura Hewitson, PhD, serves as the Director of Research for the Johnson Center for Child Health & Development. With a PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of York and decades of scientific leadership in both university and clinical settings, Dr. Hewitson is currently focused on developing blood biomarkers for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This cutting-edge research may one day enable earlier diagnoses, identify ASD sub-types and open doors to personalized treatments.
Her work aligns closely with our mission: bringing hope, progress and science together to improve lives. Click here to read her latest 2025 Research Report.
Why It Matters
When you support the Ted Lindsay Foundation, you're doing more than funding a cause—
you’re becoming part of a legacy that’s changing lives through sport, science, and compassion.
Together, we are:
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Building inclusive communities
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Empowering families
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Advancing research
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Creating real, lasting impact
Our Partners
Join the Cause
The Ted Lindsay Foundation is committed to increasing public awareness about the importance of funding autism research and supporting innovative programs that improve the lives of children on the spectrum. By engaging with our mission—whether through event participation, advocacy, or financial contributions—you become a vital part of driving meaningful progress. Together, we can create a future where children with autism receive the understanding, opportunities, and support they deserve.