Tim Russert Summer Groove
Saturday, August 16, 2025
6-11pm | at the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club
An unforgettable evening in support of our island’s youth.
The Tim Russert Summer Groove is the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club’s premier fundraising event—an elegant evening that honors the generosity of those who make our mission possible. Held each August at the Club, the Groove brings together supporters, Trustees, and friends to celebrate our impact and ensure a bright future for Nantucket’s youth.
The 2025 Tim Russert Summer Groove
The 2025 Tim Russert Summer Groove was an unforgettable evening of celebration, community, and impact, marking the most successful Summer Groove in history. Guests arrived to a festive cocktail reception and light bites on the Club lawn before gathering for an elegant three-course dinner by Island Kitchen, perfectly paired with wines generously provided by Donelan Family Wines.
CEO Jamie Foster welcomed the crowd, followed by the premiere of Joe: More Than a Coach, a moving feature film produced by Yellow Productions. Board Chair Bess Clarke then shared remarks before Luke Russert presented the Tim Russert Spirit of Hope Award to this year’s honoree, Club Champion Elin Hilderbrand.
The program continued with an exciting live auction, a spirited performance by the Summer Groove Dance Team, and a powerful paddle raise in support of Nantucket’s youth. Guests ended the night with dessert, late-night bites, and dancing to the Walton Stout Orchestra — and, of course, left with their signature Groove hats in hand.
A special thank you to David and Donald of Handy & Dallaire Events for transforming our gymnasium into a stunning event space. Their creativity and vision provided the perfect backdrop for a record-breaking night in support of our kids and families.
Every dollar raised empowers more than 1,300 children and teens at the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club. Together, we’re creating brighter futures for our community’s youth.
OUR 2025 SPONSORS
Summer Groove History
In 2002, the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club hosted the inaugural “Summer Groove” event, with Tim Russert, renowned journalist and dedicated community advocate, serving as the Master of Ceremonies. This event marked the beginning of Tim's deep relationship with the Club. He joined the Board of Trustees in 2003 and continued to inspire as the event’s Master of Ceremonies until his passing in 2008.
In honor of Tim’s legacy, the event was renamed the Tim Russert Summer Groove in 2009, and the Tim Russert Spirit of Hope Award was established to recognize individuals who embody his generosity, passion, and commitment. Since that first Summer Groove, this remarkable event has raised more than $18 million to support the youth of Nantucket.
Over the years, the Tim Russert Summer Groove has grown into the Club’s largest annual fundraiser, featuring exceptional food, inspirational speakers, moving performances by Club members, and a shared sense of community and purpose.
