Washington, D.C. – September 4, 2025 – Hope shined brightly at the Washington National Cathedral this week as Hyundai Hope on Wheels® commemorated its 27th anniversary gala, announcing a landmark $27 million pledge for 2025 and surpassing an extraordinary $277 million in lifetime donations dedicated to fighting childhood cancer.

Supported by Hyundai Motor America and more than 850 U.S. dealers, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has become one of the nation’s largest nonprofit funders of pediatric cancer research. Since its founding in 1998, the organization has provided over 1,400 research grants to 175 hospitals and institutions, helping transform treatment outcomes and survival rates for children across the country.

A Legacy of Saving Lives

Over the past 27 years, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has helped increase the childhood cancer survival rate from 75 percent to 85 percent, impacting more than 40,000 young lives.

“As we look back on nearly three decades of work, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has made a profound difference in the fight against childhood cancer,” said José Muñoz, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Our mission is rooted in hope, resilience, and community. From North America to our upcoming expansion into Europe and India, we remain committed to bringing every child a brighter tomorrow.”

 (left to right) Kevin Reilly, vice chair, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Emmy Cole, national youth ambassador, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Michelle Riley-Brown, MHA, FACHE, president and CEO, Children's National Hospital, Jackson Trinh, national youth ambassador, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Randy Parker, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America, John Guastaferro, executive director, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Jeffrey Dome, MD, senior vice president, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Hospital at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 2, 2025 (Photo/Hyundai)

Global Expansion: Reaching Beyond Borders

This year marked Hyundai Hope on Wheels’ first step into global growth, beginning with Canada and Mexico.

Canada – Since its February launch, Hyundai Auto Canada and 226 dealers have raised $2.9 million, advancing pediatric cancer research in partnership with the NHL.

Mexico – A $694,000 investment is supporting leukemia patients, treatment programs, and hospital equipment.

In 2026, the organization will expand further into Europe and India, extending its mission to children worldwide.

A Powerful Washington Presence

The anniversary celebration coincided with National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, featuring a congressional reception at the Rayburn House Office Building and Hyundai Hope on Wheels’ fourth annual survivorship summit. The summit highlighted the growing importance of survivorship care—ensuring that children who beat cancer live healthy, vibrant lives.

“Survivorship is about more than just survival—it’s about living well,” said Dr. Dan Wechsler, board member of Hyundai Hope on Wheels. “Thanks to increased cure rates and long-term care, more children are thriving, and Hyundai Hope on Wheels continues to stand by them every step of the way.”

Handprint Ceremonies: A Symbol of Unity

One of the organization’s most beloved traditions—the Handprint Ceremony—is taking place at nearly 70 locations across the U.S. this September. At each event, young survivors dip their hands in paint and leave colorful imprints on a Hyundai vehicle, symbolizing hope, courage, and the fight against childhood cancer.

This week alone, ceremonies were held at Children’s National Hospital and Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, with more to follow throughout the month.

Looking Ahead

With a $277 million lifetime milestone, Hyundai Hope on Wheels is not just funding research—it is fueling hope. The organization’s impact continues to grow, providing a foundation of care and innovation that ensures no child fights cancer alone.

For more information or to support Hyundai Hope on Wheels, visit hyundaihopeonwheels.org.