Hyundai Hope On Wheels is one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. The organization is supported by the collective effort of Hyundai Motor America and its U.S. dealers, together forming one of the longest-running philanthropic initiatives in the U.S. automotive industry. Since 1998, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has awarded more than $277 million in grants to tackle pediatric cancer, funding early-stage, high-risk research and critical programs. Over the last 27 years, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has awarded more than 1,400 childhood cancer research grants to physician scientists at over 175 hospitals and research institutions across the U.S., leading to clinical trials, new therapies, drug development, and lives saved. Hyundai Hope on Wheels needed a strategic agency partner to manage stakeholder outreach, plan and execute annual tentpole moments, and elevate their brand and mission among key audiences.

Fenton quickly integrated into the Hyundai Hope on Wheels team, partnering cross functionally using a streamlined stakeholder outreach system to coordinate these coveted Handprint Ceremonies among hospitals, Hyundai regional leaders, local dealers, and physicians. To enrich and strengthen communications outreach, Fenton launched a new Hyundai Hope on Wheels storytelling effort, equipping spokespeople, partners, and media with clear, emotionally resonant language to communicate Hope on Wheels’ mission and impact. Fenton counseled Hyundai executive teams and led the strategy and execution of scores of events commemorating these vital research grants, culminating in a week in September of high-profile gatherings in Washington, D.C. to commemorate Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Fenton’s partnership with Hyundai Hope on Wheels is a true testament to the power of cross-sector collaboration to engage private sector leaders, doctors and researchers, survivors and policymakers. Fenton’s strategic communications and events support solidified the Hyundai Hope on Wheels brand as a singular people-powered movement to end pediatric cancer. This included:

• Outreach, planning, logistics, media presence, and material production for 75 Handprint Ceremonies across 33 states. These special gatherings unite Hyundai leaders and dealers, pediatric cancer survivors and families, care providers, and researchers to present research grant checks to physicians.
• Collaboration with partner agencies to lead the planning and execution of the 27th Annual Anniversary Gala for 300 guests gathered at the iconic Washington National Cathedral.
• Facilitating a Survivorship Summit uniting 27 of the nation’s leading pediatric cancer survivorship experts tackling the unmet challenges survivors face after beating cancer.
• Staffing a Congressional Exhibit at the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill for 150 guests—including 12 members of Congress—to create awareness for the continued fight against pediatric cancer.
• Interviews with former Hope on Wheels National Youth Ambassadors to craft and spotlight deeper cancer survivor narratives.