Celebrated on September 4 in Washington, D.C., the annual Hyundai Hope on Wheels® gala marked 28 years of dedicated funding and progress in pediatric oncology. Supported by Hyundai Motor America and its network of more than 855 U.S. dealers, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit brought together Hyundai executives, congressional leaders, medical researchers, physicians, childhood cancer survivors, and families. The gathering recognized a historic milestone: over $303 million in lifetime funding awarded toward pediatric cancer research.
Expanding Global Research and Lifesaving Initiatives
Over its 28-year commitment, Hyundai Hope on Wheels® has helped save more than 40,000 children by funding groundbreaking cancer research projects. Having expanded operations into Canada, Mexico, Korea, and Australia, the charity is broadening its global scope even further. Upcoming international expansion includes planned launches in Sweden, Spain, and other European markets. Additionally, Hyundai Hope on Wheels® is advancing pediatric cancer research in India through the Hyundai Cancer Genomics Center, which is projected to benefit more than 25,000 individuals.
Honoring Outstanding Leadership: The Spirit of Hope Award
The gala was also highlighted by the presentation of the inaugural O'Brien/Reilly Spirit of Hope Award. Named in honor of co-founders Don Reilly and the late Tom O'Brien, this award recognizes dealership leaders who demonstrate exemplary advocacy, community service, leadership, and effort to raise awareness of pediatric cancer research. Nine recipients were honored across the nation:
- West Region Dealer of the Year: Temecula Hyundai, Bob Nouri, Owner
- Mountain States Region Dealer of the Year: Lee Johnson of Everett, Randy Jorgensen, Partner & General Manager
- South Central Region Dealer of the Year: West Houston Hyundai, Matt Sheek, General Manager
- Central Region Dealer of the Year: St. Charles Hyundai, Kevin Maher Jr., President
- South Region Dealer of the Year: Hyundai of New Port Richey, Dave Frazier, General Manager
- Mid-Atlantic Region Dealer of the Year: Preston Hyundai, Dave Wilson Sr., Chairman
- East Region Dealer of the Year: Gary Rome Hyundai, Gary Rome, President
- Best Market of the Year: Tampa | St. Petersburg, Florida
- O'Brien/Reilly Spirit of Hope Award National Dealer of the Year: Alexandria Hyundai, Kevin Reilly, President
Join the Fight Against Pediatric Cancer
For additional details regarding Hyundai Hope on Wheels®, visit hyundaihopeonwheels.org. If you are interested in supporting Hyundai by finding your next vehicle, contact Van Hyundai or visit today. Our dealership offers an outstanding selection of new Hyundai models, and our team is ready to assist you.
