May 10, 2019
The Jazz Foundation has received many inquiries over the past 24 hours regarding the legitimacy of the GoFundMe campaign for Kenny Burrell.
We would like to assure anyone concerned about Kenny that this campaign was indeed created by Katherine on his behalf.
Musicians close to Kenny have been in touch with him directly to confirm his situation, and the Jazz Foundation has been in contact with Katherine for months.
We operate with the utmost respect for client privacy and confidentiality, but given the questions that have come up, Katherine has kindly given us permission to share this information.
Kenny and Katherine had been dealing with this situation alone for several years, because, as always, musicians are proud and self-reliant and do things on their own. They did not even contact us to ask for help but were referred by friends.
The Jazz Foundation assessed the case, conferred with other helping organizations, and reviewed documents attesting to the financial need described in the GoFundMe post.
We couldn't possibly cover the full scope of the need, and other sources of funding were explored, including a GoFundMe campaign, given how successful and lifesaving they have proven for fellow musicians.
As we can see in this outpouring of love for Kenny and Katherine, it has worked.
This is a painful but inspiring example of what we see every day at the Jazz Foundation.
Many of our legends do not have a partner at home to help them. As we see here, even when they do, the Jazz Foundation is needed to give emotional and financial support. This is why the organization exists, and we handle 30 emergency cases every day.
Katherine wished to share these words with everyone who has giventheir kindness and support over the last day:
“Thank you to everyone at the Jazz Foundation and those who have responded with loving thoughts, prayers, and generosity. Kenny and I are overwhelmed by the compassion, support, and love of both friends and people whom we do not know, but revere his music. Even simple acts of caring and prayer are deeply appreciated during this difficult time, but the generosity in others’ hearts is far beyond anything we could have imagined. The outpouring of love and support, as well as the words of admiration and respect he has received through the campaign have tremendously lifted his spirit and touched his heart. It is my greatest joy to see his expressions, including tears, as he realizes he is respected, cherished, and loved beyond his comprehension. It is a deeply moving and humbling experience, challenging though it may be to expose ourselves and ask for help. Our deepest and heartfelt gratitude for your support, love, and light."
We applaud Kenny and Katherine for the courage it took to share the details of their crisis. It has opened up a world of such goodness and generosity, which they so richly deserve.
Yours in service,
Joseph Petrucelli
Executive Director
Contact: (212) 245-3999 ext. 10
|
Saving Jazz and Blues, one musician at a time.
