To the Editor:
This letter is to publicly explain our request that the non-profit “Kenneth’s Army” rename its organization and discontinue using Kenneth White’s name and likeness in its fundraising and publicity efforts.

Although the organization appeared to be created for altruistic purposes, it appears that the organization now has failed to support some of its initial intentions. When Kenneth’s Army was formed, it was our understanding that part of its intention and “mission” was to help provide ongoing support for Kenny’s sisters, Cheyanne and Christine, who are now living in Florida.

There has been no guidance, love, or support from Kenneth’s Army for Kenny’s sisters for several years other than small birthday and Christmas gifts.

Something as beautiful and meaningful as the dedication of a park bench and the naming of the park’s road in Kenny’s name on June 4 is an event that Kenny’s sisters should be in attendance for. One Kenneth’s Army donor specifically requested that his rather sizable donation be designated to help with airfare for the girls to attend the dedication. Their request was not granted by Kenneth’s Army.

Last year, for Kenneth’s Run, members of Kenneth’s Army promised to livestream the beginning of the run to the girls in Florida. Kenny’s sisters waited several hours and made numerous calls to members, but the livestream never happened. The anticipation, waiting, and disappointment only served to create immeasurable distress and anxiety for the girls.

The Army’s inability or unwillingness to provide support for the girls to attend the June 4 dedication is more evidence that it’s time for Kenneth’s Army to separate itself from Kenneth White and his family.

Their use of the tragedy of Kenny’s death for publicity and fundraising only serves as a constant reminder to the girls of the trauma and tragedy they experienced. Cheyanne and Christine have been in counseling since the death of their brother. In discussions with their therapist, it is in their best interest that Kenneth’s Army discontinues the use of pictures and the name of Kenneth White in association with their organization.

They could rename their organization “Champions for Children,” “Children’s Army,” or “Army for Children” and still continue their goals regarding child abuse without profiting off the White family’s tragedy.

Every year for several years, the Army has raised thousands of dollars in Kenny’s name. Other than a modest high school scholarship each year and a family adopted for Thanksgiving, where does that money go? How is it being spent? It’s time for the participants and donors involved in Kenneth’s Run to ask those questions.

Cheyanne, Christine, and I have sent a certified letter to Kenneth’s Army requesting that Kenny’s name no longer be part of their organization. We have no problem with them continuing to provide a modest scholarship and whatever they do to support abused children but without the use of Kenny’s name and likeness.

Christine, Cheyanne

and Linda Dunn

Clermont, Florida

Editor’s note: See related story.