FROM SURVIVING

TO THRIVING.

The Ruth Cheatham Foundation provides college scholarships and educational support to teens impacted by cancer so they can move past their diagnosis and on with their life.

OUR MISSION

The Ruth Cheatham Foundation champions adolescents in their fight against cancer, while inspiring hope and providing resources for survivors to excel throughout their lifetime. Our mission is to ensure that every young survivor has the opportunity to heal, grow, and achieve their full potential academically, emotionally, and as leaders shaping the future.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR MISSION
  • We empower young cancer survivors through scholarship opportunities that open doors to higher education and lifelong learning.

  • We amplify the voices of teens and young adults affected by cancer, raising awareness about their unique challenges and needs.

  • We provide critical financial support to help scholars overcome the economic burdens of cancer and pursue their academic goals.

BRIDGING THE GAP

While pediatric and adult cancer support programs are more established, the teen and young adult cancer space remains critically underserved, leaving thousands of survivors without the tools or guidance they need to pursue higher education or meaningful career paths.

TRCF exists to bridge that gap by providing college scholarships, educational support, and advocacy tailored specifically to the unique challenges young survivors face, ensuring that a cancer diagnosis doesn't define or derail their potential.

Illustration showing 1 teal-colored figure among many black figures, with text stating "1 OUT OF EVERY 100 COLLEGE STUDENTS IS A CANCER SURVIVOR".
Illustration of a person carrying a large money bag with dollar bills flowing out, alongside text highlighting that 95% of survivors say their cancer caused a financial burden on their family.
Illustration of a hospital with an ambulance in front. Text showing the average cost of childhood cancer treatment in the U.S. is $833,000.

DATAPHILANTHROPY FUELS GROWTH OF TRCF’S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

FOR TEEN CANCER SURVIVORS NATIONWIDE

The Ruth Cheatham Foundation (TRCF), is thrilled to announce a major grant from DataPhilanthropy that will significantly expand access to higher education for cancer survivors nationwide.

This investment will fund a 30% growth in TRCF’s scholarship programming for the 2025–26 academic year, supporting 345 new and returning young cancer scholars nationwide. These scholarships help young cancer survivors overcome barriers to higher education and pursue their academic and career dreams after treatment.

READ MORE

OUR SCHOLARS

Each scholar has faced the challenges of cancer with courage, determination, and hope. Now, they’re pursuing their dreams with the support of The Ruth Cheatham Foundation. Discover their stories, celebrate their achievements, and see how your support is helping shape a stronger, brighter future.

MEET OUR SCHOLARS

OUR IMPACT

At The Ruth Cheatham Foundation, we’re changing the lives of teen and young adult cancer survivors by removing barriers to higher education. Through scholarships and survivor-focused programs, we empower young people to reclaim their futures with confidence and hope.

Every dollar donated directly fuels their journey, from diagnosis to diploma and beyond.

TRCF Scholar & Cancer Survivor, Anna Grace
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR IMPACT

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR A BETTER FUTURE

At The Ruth Cheatham Foundation, we want teens to know that their future doesn’t have to be defined by their cancer diagnosis. We provide college scholarships to young adults who’ve been hit particularly hard by the physical and financial burdens of cancer. With financial support, young survivors can take the necessary steps to move past their diagnosis and excel for a lifetime.

LEARN HOW TO APPLY

TAKE ACTION

A hand holding a string of glowing fairy lights against a plain background.

DONATE

Give Hope, Fuel Their Future

Your donation helps teen and young adult cancer survivors access the education, support, and healing they need to thrive.

MAKE A DONATION
Corporate sponsor at 2025 Birdies for Brighter Futures Golf Tournament

SPONSOR

Partner With Purpose

Become a corporate sponsor and help transform the lives of young cancer survivors—while aligning your brand with meaningful change.

BECOME A SPONSOR
TRCF Event Volunteers

Be the Difference in Their Journey

VOLUNTEER

Lend your time and talents to support young survivors and help them rebuild after cancer. Together, we can change lives.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

MAKE A ONE-TIME OR RECURRING DONATION

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO

OUR GRANT PARTNERS

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO

OUR SPONSORS