Honoring the Life and Legacy of Kenny DeForest

Kenny DeForest was a beloved stand-up comedian and actor based in New York City, best known for his appearances on Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Comedy Central Stand-Up, HBO’s Crashing, TruTV’s Friends of the People, and as a former producer and co-host of Comedy at the Knitting Factory.

On December 13, 2023, Kenny became a Donor Hero following a tragic bicycle accident. In life, Kenny was known for his compassion, generosity, and humor. As a registered organ donor, he gave the ultimate gift—donating his heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and pancreas, saving the lives of five individuals ranging in age from 30 to 75.

The Big Walkowski began as a three-on-three basketball tournament for comedians. Now in its eighth year, the tournament has evolved into a beloved event on New York City’s social calendar—bringing together community, creativity, and cause. This event is dedicated to celebrating Kenny’s extraordinary life and his life-saving gift.

We invite you to support this special tribute by making a donation or forming a fundraising team in Kenny’s honor. All proceeds will benefit the LiveOnNY Foundation, whose mission is to educate communities about the importance of organ donation and to provide compassionate support for donor families and transplant recipients.

Your contribution is 100% tax deductible and will directly support programming that upholds the legacy of donor heroes like Kenny.

Join us in honoring Kenny’s legacy.
Support the gift of life.

If you are in the NY Metropolitan Area the event will be held: 

Saturday, September 12, 2026

11:00 am

American Playground, Greenpoint, Brooklyn. 

*On site sign up will be avaialable.*

The LiveOnNY Foundation supports education and awareness of the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation and programs benefitting both donor families and transplant patients through their journeys.

LiveOnNY Programs

Scholarship Program - The LiveOnNY Foundation launched a new annual Scholarship Program in 2026, awarding up to ten (10) $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing education and careers in health and human services. The Scholarship will be available to rising High School seniors or college studedents entering programs focused in health and human services.  Aplications are due April 13.  

Advanced Donor Management Fellowship – Advanced Donor Management Fellowship – Established in March 2025 with NYU Grossman School of Medicine . The Fellowship is an innovative new medical discipline, focused on organ donation to provide donor hospitals and health systems with a dedicated specialist trained to optimize a donor's medical status, ensuring that organs are procured under the best possible conditions. 

Donate Eight Simulation Center - Unveiled in 2024, this cutting-edge Simulation Center will elevate training and education. The center includes a fully equipped mock operating room and ICU, designed to train employees in donor case management in a controlled, immersive environment.

The Marino Prodan Legacy Award - The Prodan Legacy award provides funds to ten children each year who have lost a parent, sibling or other close relative who gave the gift of life to others. 

Sean’s Gift Blanket Program - In memory of Sean L., a courageous donor hero who saved three lives through the gift of organ donation. Families are presented with hand-knitted blankets—symbolizing warmth, comfort, and the enduring impact of Sean’s selfless act. 

Painted Legacies - This therapeutic and commemorative gathering honors the legacy of organ and tissue donor heroes. Bringing together donor families, transplant recipients, and community members, the event provides a meaningful space for reflection, healing, and connection.