As Hyundai Hope On Wheels (HHOW) marked its 26th anniversary with an inspiring gala in Washington, D.C., the night was nothing short of a triumph—a celebration of hope, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to saving young lives. What began as a small gesture of compassion in 1998 has evolved into one of the largest supporters of pediatric cancer research in the nation. Over the past quarter-century, Hyundai and its 835 U.S. dealerships have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with medical professionals, researchers, and families battling childhood cancer, donating over $250 million to date. The organization’s 2024 gala, themed Hope Lights the Way, showcased this impressive legacy and revealed exciting new initiatives that will strengthen its global impact even further.

A Global Vision to Fight Pediatric Cancer

For years, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has been synonymous with hope in the United States, having awarded grants that have touched the lives of more than 25,000 children. However, the foundation is taking this mission beyond borders, announcing its global expansion starting in 2025. Next year, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will extend its life-saving reach to children in Canada, Mexico, and several other countries. This global initiative comes with a promise: wherever childhood cancer exists, hope will follow.

José Muñoz, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America, was emphatic about the foundation’s global vision. "Hyundai is passionate about hope—particularly in giving hope to kids fighting cancer. With our dealers, we’re proud to continue growing Hyundai’s impact. Expanding globally is the next logical step in our fight."

Funding the Future: Endowed Chair of Pediatric Oncology

In one of the night’s standout moments, the foundation introduced its*inaugural Endowed Chair of Pediatric Oncology Grant, a $3 million investment aimed at securing the future of pediatric cancer research. Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center was the recipient of this groundbreaking award, which will ensure that generations of future researchers continue their vital work in the field.

This new grant underscores HHOW’s commitment not just to immediate needs, but to long-term sustainability in pediatric oncology. It’s a forward-thinking investment in the people who will find the cures of tomorrow.

Survivorship: A Commitment Beyond Treatment

Survival is only part of the battle. What happens after cancer is just as crucial. That’s why Hyundai Hope On Wheels has introduced a **$5 million survivorship initiative**, aimed at improving the long-term well-being of pediatric cancer survivors. The program will enhance survivorship guidelines, medical technologies, and peer support systems. Institutions like Texas Children’s Hospital, Emory University, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute are among the beneficiaries, working to ensure that survivors don’t just live—but thrive.

"As survival rates increase, so does the need to ensure that survivors live well," said Dr. Dan Wechsler, a member of HHOW’s Medical Advisory Committee. "Hyundai Hope On Wheels recognizes that the fight doesn’t end with remission. It’s about supporting survivors for life."

 Hyundai Hope On Wheels, Hyundai Motor America, and Hyundai dealers present Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center with inaugural Endowed Chair of Pediatric Oncology Grant in Washington D.C. on Sept. 17, 2024 (Photo/Hyundai)

 

Research That Changes Lives: 2024’s $26 Million in Grants

The gala wasn’t just a celebration—it was a launchpad for action. This year, Hyundai Hope On Wheels awarded 91 new grants, totaling $26 million to leading pediatric cancer research institutions. These grants are funding cutting-edge treatments, innovative immunotherapies, and life-saving drug developments, with one simple goal: to improve the outcomes for children fighting cancer.

From leukemia breakthroughs to pediatric brain tumor research, HHOW has helped to produce over 2,000 medical research articles and has leveraged an additional $275 million in funding. This collaborative effort is changing the landscape of pediatric oncology, one grant at a time.

A Legacy of Impact

As Hyundai Hope On Wheels moves forward into its next chapter, the numbers speak volumes: $250 million raised, 26 years of impact, and countless lives changed. And now, with a global expansion on the horizon, the future looks even brighter for children around the world.

But beyond the numbers, it’s the stories that resonate. Stories of children who’ve found hope in the darkest of times, stories of families who’ve found support in an uncertain world, and stories of researchers who’ve found breakthroughs that bring us one step closer to a cure.

Wrapping Up: A Night of Celebration and a Future of Hope

With the lights dimmed and the applause fading, one thing was clear—Hyundai Hope On Wheels is not just a foundation; it’s a beacon of hope. A global expansion, new survivorship initiatives, and a record-breaking lifetime donation total all point to one undeniable fact: hope is on the move. And while the road ahead may still have its challenges, for the children and families fighting pediatric cancer, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will always light the way.

To learn more about the incredible work Hyundai Hope On Wheels is doing, visit HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org.