Kenny Velez/Guru Kar Singh was a beloved friend and an extraordinary yoga teacher who taught with integrity, nobility and grace. His love for gardening and organic cooking was exceeded only by his love for the many souls around him. He was deeply loved, known for his 'exuberant compassion' in putting others first as a trusted listener, provoking soul and nurturing friend.

Guru Kar Singh lived as a yogi and inspired many students to excel in the face of difficulty. Kenny was doubly committed to teacher training, participating in the Kundalini Research Institute’s Level 1 Teacher Training program in New York City, and then graduating from the Spirit Rising Yoga Teacher Training program in 2008.

He was a dedicated teacher who made every effort to improve the lives of his students and people around him until his untimely passing in April, 2009.

To honor his legacy, the Spirit Rising Foundation established the Kenny Velez/Guru Kar Singh Memorial Scholarship Fund. Contributions to this fund will assist aspiring Kundalini Yoga teachers participate in the Level 1 Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training Course by providing needed financial support in meeting tuition costs. The scholarship covers a significant portion of the tuition of a trainee who, for financial reasons, would otherwise not be able to participate in the program and who have committed to completing the seva requirements of this scholarship, including providing classes to underserved communities.