Hyundai Hope On Wheels Reaches Lifetime Giving Milestone Of A Quarter-Billion Dollars In 2024

In a significant move towards combating pediatric cancer, Hyundai Hope On Wheels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization initiated by Hyundai Motor America, has announced a new funding commitment of $26 million for research and support grants. This announcement was made in New York on March 27, 2024, marking the organization's 26th year of relentless efforts against childhood cancer. With this latest funding, Hyundai Hope On Wheels achieves a monumental milestone in its philanthropic journey, reaching a lifetime giving total of $250 million since its inception in 1998.

Hyundai Hope On Wheels has established itself as a leading charity in the United States dedicated to pediatric cancer research. Over the years, it has supported innovative research projects with the aim of finding a cure and enhancing the quality of life for children affected by cancer. Kevin Reilly, vice chairman of the Hyundai Hope On Wheels Board of Directors and president of Alexandria Hyundai, expressed pride in reaching this milestone, highlighting the commitment of Hyundai Motor America and its dealers to eradicating childhood cancer.

In 2024 alone, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will contribute to over 1,300 research and programmatic grants across more than 175 hospitals and research institutions. The grants are categorized into three types, all aimed at improving outcomes, treatments, and support for children diagnosed with cancer. A notable portion of this year's commitment, $5 million, is specifically allocated to survivorship programs. As survival rates improve, there is an increasing need to ensure that young cancer survivors can lead fulfilling lives. This includes initiatives such as long-term care plans and telehealth support.

Dr. Dan Wechsler, a member of the Hyundai Hope On Wheels Medical Advisory Committee, emphasized the importance of research in the quest to cure all children with cancer. He noted that the grants not only aid in discovering new treatments but also in developing less invasive treatment options.

The organization also introduced Emmy Cole as its newest National Youth Ambassador. Emmy, an 11-year-old from outside Seattle, Washington, was selected through a nationwide search and will serve alongside Raynie Clark for the 2024-2026 term. Both ambassadors will visit children's hospitals throughout the year to share their stories and raise awareness about pediatric cancer.

Hyundai Hope On Wheels plans to visit children’s hospitals nationwide later this year to present grant awards. These visits will culminate in September during National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with special events in Washington D.C., celebrating the organization's 26th anniversary and its future vision.

Hyundai Hope On Wheels continues to be one of the country's largest nonprofit funders of pediatric cancer research. The primary funding for these initiatives comes from Hyundai Motor America and its extensive network of over 830 U.S. dealers. This enduring commitment underscores the organization's dedication to not only advancing research but also supporting children and families affected by cancer.

For further information about Hyundai Hope On Wheels and its impactful work in pediatric cancer research, please contact John Guastaferro at (657) 583-5514 or via email at [email protected].