Hyundai Motor, in collaboration with its dealers, has established and sponsors the nonprofit organization "Hyundai Hope On Wheels," which supports the treatment and research of childhood cancer. On the 3rd (local time), at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., the organization held its 27th anniversary event and announced plans to implement programs in Europe and India starting next year to deliver hope to more childhood cancer patients.
This event was held with the participation of Hyundai Motor officials, major U.S. dealers, representatives from the American Medical Association, childhood cancer-related organizations, and children who have overcome childhood cancer.
In particular, this event, held in September to coincide with National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in the U.S., highlighted the research achievements supported by Hyundai Hope On Wheels over the past 27 years and served as a time to reflect on its contributions to improving childhood cancer survival rates and advancements in treatment technology.
Jose Munoz, CEO of Hyundai Motor, noted, "According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 85% of children with cancer survive for more than five years as of 2025," adding, "This is a significant increase compared to 56% in 1975 and represents important progress made through advancements in treatment technology over the past few decades."
He continued, "I am deeply grateful that Hyundai Hope On Wheels can be a part of helping these young lives amid such changes," stating, "Next year, we will expand our activities to Europe and India to bring hope and courage to more patients."
Founded in 1998 in the U.S., Hyundai Hope On Wheels is a nonprofit organization supported by Hyundai Motor's U.S. corporation and over 850 U.S. dealers. This year alone, it provided $27 million in research and program subsidies in the U.S., bringing total contributions to $277 million.
Notably, starting this year, activities have begun in Canada and Mexico through the respective Hyundai corporations and dealer networks, expanding the program throughout North America.
In Canada, it donated $2.9 million in collaboration with 226 dealers to support childhood cancer treatment research, raising awareness of its activities through a partnership with the National Hockey League (NHL®). In Mexico, it contributed $694,000 to aid treatment for children with leukemia and to expand hospital equipment.
The day after the anniversary event, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will hold a congressional reception at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C., showcasing a special exhibition highlighting 27 years of achievements and social contributions. Additionally, it will host the 4th Survivor Summit to share the results of support programs aimed at improving the quality of life after childhood cancer treatment, emphasizing the importance of continued care post-treatment, and discuss future challenges with beneficiaries and related organizations.
Dan Wechsler, a medical advisor and director of Hyundai Hope On Wheels, said, "Since the launch of Hyundai Hope On Wheels, there have been remarkable advancements in improving treatment rates for childhood cancer patients and enhancing long-term treatment accessibility," adding, "In a time when ensuring the quality of life for survivors is more important than ever, I am proud to be a strong supporter of Hyundai Hope On Wheels."
Hyundai Hope On Wheels will focus on its signature event, "Handprint Ceremonies," throughout September, delivering donations. This event is a symbolic occasion for patients, medical staff, and Hyundai Motor officials to stamp painted handprints on Hyundai vehicles, conveying a message of solidarity and hope for overcoming childhood cancer. This year, it will be conducted at over 70 locations nationwide, including the National Children's Hospital and the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University, making it the largest scale ever, with beneficiary organizations to be announced at the end of this month.
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