About Us

Ken's Hotdogs For Heroes, Inc. was founded to honor the life, dedication, and charitable work of our father, Ken Tornkvist, whose commitment to helping homeless veterans left a lasting impression on our family.

Growing up, we witnessed firsthand the difference one person could make in the lives of others. Our father dedicated much of his time to assisting veterans experiencing homelessness and financial hardship in Bakersfield, California.

Our father established the Homeless Veterans Fund as an independent organization in Bakersfield, California, dedicated to assisting homeless veterans and helping them regain stability and independence.

A Family Tradition of Giving Back

One of our fondest memories involves helping our father during weekend fundraising events throughout Bakersfield.

Our family would occasionally join him in selling hot dogs outside Kmart and at other community locations. These events weren't simply about selling food. Every hot dog represented an opportunity to raise money for veterans who needed assistance.

Through his involvement with veterans' organizations, including Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), our father brought together fellow veterans who shared his dedication to helping others. Members of these organizations would sometimes volunteer their time to operate the weekend hot dog fundraising events, helping raise money for the independent Homeless Veterans Fund. 

Our father also collected donated clothing, household goods, and other items to sell at garage sales, generating additional funds for the Homeless Veterans Fund.

These experiences taught us that meaningful community service doesn't always require large donations or elaborate programs. Sometimes, something as simple as selling a hot dog can help make a difference.

His Commitment to Veterans

Our father was a lifetime member of several veterans' organizations in Bakersfield, including:

• Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

• Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)

• 82nd Airborne organizations

His mission was straightforward: Help homeless veterans get off the streets and regain a stable, structured life.

His efforts included helping veterans obtain military discharge documentation (DD Form 214), access earned benefits, secure temporary housing, arrange bus transportation, and connect with organizations capable of providing additional assistance.

He understood that homelessness was rarely a problem that could be solved with a single act of kindness. Many veterans needed guidance, resources, and someone willing to help them navigate the challenges standing between them and a more stable future.

Continuing His Legacy

Following our father's passing, we wanted to find a meaningful way to honor his memory while continuing the charitable traditions he established.

That desire became the foundation of Ken's Hotdogs For Heroes, Inc.

Our organization carries forward his commitment to helping veterans facing homelessness and financial hardship. We also recognize the importance of supporting the first responders and community members who serve, protect, and strengthen our neighborhoods.

Our outreach includes veterans, police officers, firefighters, emergency personnel, and individuals or families experiencing difficult circumstances.

We believe that honoring those who serve means more than expressing appreciation. It also means being willing to lend a helping hand when circumstances become challenging.

Supporting Our Community, One Hot Dog at a Time

As a veteran-owned and volunteer-operated nonprofit organization, we understand that financial hardship can affect anyone.

With the rising cost of living, many individuals and families face difficult decisions between paying bills, purchasing groceries, and meeting other essential needs.

Our goal is to provide practical, short-term assistance when funding and available resources permit, helping individuals and families navigate immediate financial challenges.

We plan to generate charitable funding through:

• Community hot dog and nacho fundraising events

• Online donations and charitable contributions

• Livestream fundraising activities

• Community partnerships and sponsorships

These efforts are intended to support charitable outreach, emergency assistance, and short-term relief for those experiencing financial hardship.

When someone requires longer-term assistance beyond our organization's capabilities, we may help connect them with other community organizations and appropriate resources.

Our Commitment to the Future

Beginning in Jonesboro, Arkansas, we hope to build meaningful relationships with veterans, first responders, local organizations, businesses, and community members.

As our funding, volunteers, and organizational capacity grow, we hope to expand our outreach into neighboring communities.

We know that we cannot solve every hardship or eliminate homelessness on our own. However, we believe that small acts of kindness, consistent community involvement, and responsible charitable giving can make a meaningful difference.

Our father demonstrated that belief through his actions, and we intend to carry it forward.

Ken's Hotdogs For Heroes, Inc. is more than an organization bearing our father's name. It is a continuation of his dedication to service, compassion, and helping those who need someone in their corner.

Supporting Veterans, First Responders & Our Communities — One Hot Dog at a Time!