Tim Russert Summer Groove
Saturday, August 15, 2026
6-11pm | at the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club
Join us for the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club’s signature summer gala - an unforgettable evening of celebration, community, and impact benefiting more than 1,400 island children and teens
The Tim Russert Summer Groove is the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club’s signature fundraising gala - an unforgettable summer evening that honors the legacy of Tim Russert and the extraordinary generosity of our community. Each August, supporters gather at the Club to celebrate our mission, reflect on the lives transformed through our programs, and invest in the future of Nantucket’s youth. The Groove is not simply an event - it is a powerful expression of collective commitment to the next generation.
A Night of Celebration, Community & Impact
The 2026 Tim Russert Summer Groove promises to be an unforgettable evening of celebration, community, and impact as supporters gather once again to invest in the future of Nantucket’s youth.
Guests will begin the evening with a festive cocktail reception and light bites on the Club lawn before moving inside for an elegant seated dinner by Island Kitchen, thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines generously provided by Donelan Family Wines.
The program will feature remarks from CEO Jamie Foster and Board leadership, a meaningful tribute honoring the legacy of Tim Russert, and the presentation of the Tim Russert Spirit of Hope Award to a distinguished member of our community. The evening will continue with an exciting live auction, a powerful paddle raise in support of the Club’s year-round programs, and special performances that celebrate the spirit and talent of our youth.
As always, the night will conclude with dessert, late-night bites, and dancing - along with a few signature Summer Groove surprises our guests have come to love.
With the creative vision of Handy & Dallaire Events transforming our gymnasium into a stunning event space, the 2026 Summer Groove will once again reflect the energy, generosity, and unwavering commitment of this extraordinary community.
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.
