This August will mark the launch of Mini-Golf for a Big Cause, a series of Putt-a-Thons to benefit the Jimmy Fund. Presented by Bob’s Discount Furniture, this series of fun-filled, for-all-ages, mini-golf events will help raise critical funds for cutting-edge research and patient care at Dana-Farber.

Cathy Poulin of Bob’s Discount Furniture and Jimmy Fund Golf’s Tim Barry—who are helping launch these unique fundraising events to champion the Jimmy Fund’s lifesaving mission—recently sat down with “From the Fairways” to discuss the newly established Mini-Golf for a Big Cause Putt-a-Thons.

FTF: Why Mini-Golf?
Tim: I think the question is “Why not Mini-Golf?!” Mini-golf is a fantastic way to involve people of all ages in an activity that is not only great fun for everyone, but is also supporting a great cause—advancing the fight against cancer at Dana-Farber. 

Cathy: Everyone at Bob’s Discount Furniture is particularly excited about the opportunity to welcome entire families—and entire communities—to our stores for a day of non-stop fun. In addition to the mini-golf, there will also be clowns, face painting, music, as well as arts and crafts for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to the Putt-a-Thon, we will also hold a 50-foot putting contest, in which players will have a chance to win $50,000. This challenge is open to everyone—you do not have to be in the Putt-a-Thon to participate.

FTF: Where and when will the events be held?
Cathy:  The first event will be held Aug. 25 at Bob’s Discount Furniture in Nashua, N.H. The second putt-a-thon will be held Sept. 22 at Bob’s Discount Furniture in Portland, Maine. Both of these events will feature state-of-the-art portable mini-golf courses that will actually be set up in the stores’ parking lots. It is going to be a blast for everyone who comes. We’ll expand to a second day if the first day sells out.

FTF: How will these Mini-Golf Putt-a-Thons work?
Tim: Players will register online at www.jimmyfund.org/mini-golf and, in exchange for paying a nominal registration fee, will be able to putt 54 holes. Once registered, players will be encouraged to get pledges from friends, colleagues, or local businesses. In addition, companies or organizations, like the Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, college groups, grade schools, and church groups teams are all encouraged to come out and participate.         

FTF: Is this an all day event?
Tim: Only if you want it to be. Putting 54 holes takes roughly two and half hours. With multiple start times throughout the day, we are trying to make it convenient for everyone who wants to play.

FTF: Will there be prizes?
Tim: Absolutely! There will be prizes awarded during each flight of mini-golf, as well as gifts to recognize the largest fundraisers, so everyone should get out their putters and start practicing!

Visit www.jimmyfund.org/mini-golf to register or learn more.