The annual Hyundai Hope on Wheels® gala took place on September 4 in Washington, D.C., marking 28 years of impactful efforts in the fight against childhood cancer. Backed by Hyundai Motor America along with more than 855 U.S. dealers, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization gathered Hyundai leadership, members of Congress, medical researchers, physicians, pediatric cancer survivors, and their families. The event commemorated a milestone: $303 million in lifetime giving dedicated to pediatric cancer research.
Expanding Global Research and Lifesaving Initiatives
Over 28 years of operation, Hyundai Hope on Wheels® has helped save the lives of more than 40,000 children through funded research initiatives. Following successful growth across Australia, Canada, Korea, and Mexico, the organization is actively extending its international footprint. Future plans include expansion into Sweden, Spain, and other European countries. Furthermore, Hyundai Hope on Wheels® is advancing pediatric oncology research in India through the Hyundai Cancer Genomics Center, which is expected to benefit more than 25,000 people.
Honoring Outstanding Leadership: The Spirit of Hope Award
A primary feature of the evening was the introduction of the inaugural O'Brien/Reilly Spirit of Hope Award. Created to remember co-founder Tom O'Brien and honor co-founder Don Reilly, the Spirit of Hope Award celebrates dealers who show outstanding dedication, leadership, community involvement, and advocacy in advancing childhood cancer awareness. A total of nine honorees were recognized:
- 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
To learn more about the ongoing impact of Hyundai Hope on Wheels®, visit hyundaihopeonwheels.org. If you are considering supporting Hyundai by acquiring a new vehicle, feel free to contact or visit Vandergriff Hyundai. We carry a wide selection of new Hyundai models and look forward to helping you select the perfect vehicle.
