Jun 6, 2025
Close-up of a Hyundai N performance wheel and red brake caliper, showcasing the brand's bold design and precision engineering.

At Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith, we believe that being part of the Hyundai family means more than just selling cars. It means making a difference in the lives of families across the country. This year, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Hyundai’s nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting pediatric cancer, is celebrating an important milestone: 27 years of giving—and $27 million in new grants to support lifesaving research.

Since 1998, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has donated a remarkable amount to pediatric cancer research, with grants totaling over $277 million. These funds have helped more than 25,000 children receive better treatments and new hope. The organization’s commitment to funding innovative research and supporting groundbreaking studies remains stronger than ever as it enters its 27th year.

A Renewed Mission, A Bigger Impact

In 2025, Hyundai Hope on Wheels will award $27 million in grants. These funds will go to children’s hospitals and medical centers across the United States. They help to:

  • Support cutting-edge pediatric cancer research
  • Improve survivorship care programs
  • Provide long-term health plans for children who overcome cancer

Hyundai Hope on Wheels presents grants in three categories. These grants include the Hyundai Scholar Hope Grant and the Hyundai Young Investigator Grant. Both are crucial in helping researchers discover better treatments and work toward finding cures. The grants are competitively selected for translational research. They ensure that the most promising projects receive the necessary funding.

With this year’s contributions, Hyundai Hope on Wheels will have funded more than 1,400 grants. These are awarded to 175 pediatric institutions. Beyond medical treatment, this mission provides lasting emotional and psychological support. This support helps families facing the battle against cancer.

Here at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith, we’re proud to support this movement. Every Hyundai purchase from us plays a small but meaningful part in driving this mission forward.

Growing Across North America

2025 marks a year of exciting growth. Hyundai Hope on Wheels has expanded beyond the United States to Canada and Mexico. It helps more children and families across North America. It provides access to hope, support, and innovative treatment options. This initiative is strongly supported by Hyundai Motor America. Its nationwide dealers ensure a broad network of assistance and community engagement.

This expansion means more groundbreaking research, more clinical trials, and better outcomes for children. Hyundai Hope on Wheels continues to connect communities and fund life-changing research. It offers strength to families everywhere when pediatric cancer strikes. America and its nationwide efforts are crucial in combating childhood cancer. It also provides essential resources to those in need.

A Fresh New Look for the Future

As part of its 27th anniversary, Hyundai Hope on Wheels introduced a new brand identity. It reflects the progress made—and the work still ahead. Since 1998, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has worked tirelessly to support families and children affected by childhood cancer. All done through significant grant funding and community involvement.

What’s New:

  • The handprint stays as the heart of the logo, representing the children we fight for.
  • New symbols: a wing for hope, a heart for love, and a leaf for healing.
  • Brighter colors and a modern font reflect optimism and momentum.

This new design honors past victories while inspiring hope for future achievements. It reminds us that even small steps forward bring real change for families facing pediatric cancer.

Meet the 2025 National Youth Ambassador: Jackson Trinh

Each year, Hyundai Hope on Wheels selects young ambassadors who embody hope and resilience. This year, 10-year-old Jackson Trinh from Albuquerque, New Mexico, has been chosen as one of the 2025 National Youth Ambassadors.

Jackson, a cancer survivor, will join Emmy Cole—the 2024–2026 ambassador. They will visit children’s hospitals to share their personal stories and inspire hope across the country. Together, they give a face and a voice to the thousands of children still fighting cancer today. You can learn more about Jackson and Emmy at HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org.

Looking Ahead: National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Later in 2025, Hyundai Hope on Wheels will host grant ceremonies at hospitals nationwide. The events lead up to National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September. The goal is to raise awareness and emphasize the collective effort needed to combat childhood cancer. It also encourages public participation in supporting these initiatives.

The celebrations will wrap up with a major event in Washington, D.C. The Hyundai community will come together to celebrate the progress made and recommit to finding cures for pediatric cancer.

This month-long campaign raises awareness, builds community support, and reminds us all how important it is to stand with these brave children and their families.

Proud to Support Hope at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith

At Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith, supporting Hyundai Hope on Wheels isn’t just a slogan—it’s part of our mission. Every Hyundai you purchase helps fund pediatric cancer research, treatment, and survivorship programs. We invite you to join us in supporting our efforts.

When you shop with us, you’re helping researchers develop new therapies. You also give families emotional support. All in an effort to offer children the chance for a brighter, healthier future. Your participation aligns with our ongoing initiatives and efforts to help end childhood cancer.

How You Can Get Involved

  • Buy a Hyundai—Every purchase helps support pediatric cancer research and join the movement to make a difference.
  • Share the Story—Tell friends, family, and your workplace about Hyundai Hope on Wheels.
  • Donate or Learn More—Visit HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org to get involved. We invite you to join us in raising awareness and supporting efforts against childhood cancer.

Many workplaces even offer matching gift programs to double your impact—be sure to ask!

Together, We Drive Toward a Cure

For 27 years, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has turned miles into moments of hope. All thanks to partners like Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith—and drivers like you. Your support brings us a step closer to a future where no child has to face cancer alone.

Together, we’re driving toward a future where no child has to face cancer alone. Every contribution takes us a step toward finding solutions. Keep bringing hope to families when they need it most. Thank you for being part of the journey.