Award-Winning Fundraiser: Dave’s “Putting for Miracles” Helps Kids Through Gaming

Dave Chobanoff has been a dedicated fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital for over a decade, raising more than $50,000 to give kids the gift of growing up. This past summer, Dave’s outstanding efforts were recognized with a national-level In-Person Event Extra Life Award for excellence in organizing local events that have excelled in both attendance and funds raised. 

He credits his involvement with CMN to The People’s Morning Show Annual Pay 4 Play on 105.7 The X. “I would listen to the radio marathon and hear all the stories of the Miracle Children,” Dave shared. After receiving encouragement from a friend, Dave organized a Putting for Miracles mini-golf tournament to benefit CMN through Extra Life, a program that raises funds and awareness for children’s health through gaming, including video game tournaments, board games, and more. 

Dave launched the first Putting for Miracles tournament in 2022 with more than 60 participants and 30 sponsors, raising $5,000. By 2023, it expanded to 100 participants, 20 vendors, food trucks, and custom t-shirts, raising more than $10,000. 

Putting for Miracles 2024 took place on May 18. The event hosted more than 100 participants, dozens of volunteers, and several vendors and food trucks. Despite rainy conditions, the event reached a record-breaking $11,500 raised! 

Along with the fun and games, Dave values the presence of Miracle Families who share their stories at the event, illustrating the real-world impact of donor contributions. The money raised helps to fund crucial needs at the Children’s Hospital like medical equipment, family support services, and pediatric research.

Looking ahead, he has already started organizing the next tournament on June 7, 2025, at Leisure Lanes in Lancaster, featuring classic elements like a windmill and safari animals, along with a natural grass putting green. With 144 player spots available across 36 holes, the event will be open to all ages and skill levels. 

Dave emphasizes the significance of volunteers, saying, “We’re always happy to accept help from anyone who wants to lend a hand, whether it’s on the day of the event or leading up to it.” He also credits his wife, Stacy, for being his unwavering support since the beginning, along with key team members like Jen O’Neill, Josh Deering, Jamie Snyder, and Miracle Alum Gavin Gilhool – a former CMN beneficiary who now volunteers to give back.

Reflecting on his journey, Dave feels honored to have received this national award and is grateful for all those who contribute countless hours to the event’s success. He remains motivated to educate more people about CMN’s mission and the significant impact it has on families. For him, the work isn’t over; each year presents a new opportunity to exceed his goals and make a difference for the children and family at the Children’s Hospital.

If you’d like to volunteer for the 2025 event or learn about registration, visit the Putting for Miracles website.