Our Mission

The XEL FOUNDATION advocates for inclusion of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and for research to end the increasing rates of autism. XEL is an advocate for autism research directed at ending the increasing rates of those affected and providing those already affected with autism an inclusive opportunity for a fulfilling life. We support the research community by providing funding for autism research through our annual grant program. We are a 501(c)(3) organization, and donations are tax-deductible.

At that time the rate of autism was 1 in 54. The number has since increased to 1 in 36. That’s a number we won’t accept. We’ve decided to continue to use 54 to show the increasing numbers of those affected by autism.

Lex is our seven-year-old son. I always knew his name would mean something bigger, now it stands for a movement in autism research and inclusion. We decided to name the foundation The XEL Foundation.

It spells Lex backwards, which also represents the word “EXCEL”. The definition of excel is to surpass in accomplishment or achievement.

Our History

When we started this journey in November of 2021, we could not have imagined the overwhelming support. For anyone that is new to the R&R family of companies or was not in attendance in Las Vegas, my dad, Rich Francis and his wife Kathie, handed my husband and I a check for $100,000 and asked that we start a foundation for autism research and inclusion. In addition to the $100,000 he asked that every terminal present would consider donating 54 cents a truckload – and that R&R Express would match it. WE CAN’T BELIEVE ALL OF THOSE THAT JOINED THE MOVEMENT! From the bottom of our family’s hearts, thank you.