As the sun rises over the rolling greens, there’s a palpable sense of excitement and camaraderie in the air. This isn’t just another day on the course; it’s the Annual Golf Outing for the Congenital Heart Alliance of Cincinnati, a day that brings together our community, our board, our doctors, and most importantly, our heart kids and their families.

A Journey from Humble Beginnings

When I joined the Board in 2012/13, we didn’t yet have any fund raising events on the golf course. The idea of hosting a golf outing was born from a need to raise awareness and bring our heart community closer together.  The primary goal was to introduce our organization to the community and enhance our marketing efforts. The first few years were about laying the groundwork – developing posters, banners, brochures, and all the materials that would help tell our story.  The heart of this event lies in its ability to bring our mission to life. It’s about community outreach, fostering connections between board members and doctors, and sharing our mission with a broader audience. Over the years, we’ve grown from a small gathering to an anticipated event with over 30 foursomes signing up. Attendees return year after year, not just for the golf but for the sense of community and the fun atmosphere we strive to create.

A Personal Connection

My son Gabe, a heart kid himself, was an avid golfer and a member of the Mason High golf team. With his passion for the game and my familiarity with local courses, it felt natural to plan a golf outing. Gabe also caddied at Heritage during the summers, which allowed me to forge a strong relationship with the golf pro there. This year marks our 8th annual event, a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.

The Power of Volunteers and Sponsors

Our success is largely due to the incredible team of volunteers who pour their hearts into this event and the sponsors whose generous contributions keep this event going year after year. Sponsorships are crucial for covering event costs and ensuring we can continue to host such a memorable day. When our volunteers prepare for the event, each volunteer has specific roles and responsibilities.  We have everything very organized both leading up to and during the outing, so that our entire volunteer group can function like a well-oiled machine. We are so appreciative of these volunteers and there’s always room for more hands and hearts in this mission!

 

A Day to Remember

One of the most cherished aspects of the outing is seeing the golfers interact with the heart kids and hearing their stories. The doctors from the Heart Institute love attending, and it’s become a staple on their calendars.

For me, the highlight of the event is the dinner. It’s a time when everyone – board members, golfers, families, and doctors – comes together in a social setting. It’s a moment to reflect on the day’s successes, share stories, and simply enjoy each other’s company.

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a newcomer, we invite you to join us on the greens. Together, we’re swinging for hearts and making a difference in the lives of so many.

See you on the course!

Zerlina Dubois

President of the Board of Trustees for CHAoC