Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Time: Doors open at 5:30
Location: Grandview Venue at The Oaks – Somersworth, NH
The Comedians
Jimmy Dunn - Headliner
Jimmy Dunn is a stand-up comedian and actor from Boston, who
currently plays “Moose” on the sitcom FRASIER.
He got his start in comedy telling jokes in a bar in Gloucester,
Massachusetts, where he was paid in beer and fried clams. Since then,
he’s gone on to perform at some of the world’s most prestigious comedy
events, including the Late Show with David Letterman, CONAN,
Montreal’s International Just For Laughs Comedy Festival, and Denis
Leary’s Comic’s Come Home in Boston.
Jimmy’s first major television role was as Sean McCarthy on the
CBS sitcom, THE MCCARTHYS. He’s also written on several television
projects, including two episodes of LOUDERMILK that he co-wrote with
Academy Award winner Peter Farrelly.
Andrew Della Volpe
Recently named a “Comedian on The Rise,” by The Boston Globe, Andrew got his start working as an intern at Sacha Baron Cohen’s Four by Two Films and never considered a straight job again. Featured on CBS, and a finalist in the Boston Comedy Festival, you can see Andrew in clubs and theatre’s across New England and beyond.
Quick Facts
We have raised over $100,000 that has enhanced our ability to support research, provide resources, and offer hope to countless individuals and families affected by rare diseases.
There are over 7,000 distinct types of rare diseases, and collectively, they affect more than 30 million Americans.
Approximately 50% of people affected by rare diseases are children, and sadly, 30% of these children will not live to see their fifth birthday.
Quick Facts
We have raised over $100,000 that has enhanced our ability to support research, provide resources, and offer hope to countless individuals and families affected by rare diseases.
There are over 7,000 distinct types of rare diseases, and collectively, they affect more than 30 million Americans.
Approximately 50% of people affected by rare diseases are children, and sadly, 30% of these children will not live to see their fifth birthday.
Our Story
Stephanie Foster passed away on October 15, 2012 at 24 years old from a rare, neurodegenerative disorder. She suffered with various health problems throughout her life, with the disease progressing very quickly over her last year of life.
When Stephanie found out she only had a year to live, she decided to raise money to help others because she did not want other people with rare diseases to suffer as she did. While Stephanie was researching organizations to get involved with, she discovered the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and decided to help NORD.
NORD, a 501c3 organization, is a federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare diseases and assisting the organizations that serve them. NORD is committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service.
Rare disorders are very hard to identify and treat because most of them do not have testing or treatment. 75% of rare diseases affect children, 30% of rare disease patients die before the age of 5 and 80% of rare diseases have identified genetic origins.
Stephanie held a fundraiser for NORD on June 22, 2012 and collected over $6,000! Stephanie’s last wish was for her family to continue fundraising for NORD after she passed away. NORD has set up a fund in Stephanie’s memory, “The Stephanie Foster Education Fund for Rare Diseases.”
Since 2012, we have held an annual comedy show event A Rare Night, to raise donations in her honor to NORD.
Stephanie held a fundraiser for NORD on June 22, 2012 and collected over $6,000! Stephanie’s last wish was for her family to continue fundraising for NORD after she passed away. NORD has set up a fund in Stephanie’s memory, “The Stephanie Foster Education Fund for Rare Diseases.”
Since 2012, we have held an annual comedy show event A Rare Night, to raise donations in her honor to NORD.
About NORD
The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with rare diseases. Their mission is to improve health and well-being by driving advances in care, research, and policy. NORD provides practical assistance through patient programs, maintains a comprehensive rare disease database, and collaborates with Rare Disease Centers of Excellence. By elevating the voice of the rare disease community, NORD advocates for patient-centered, data-driven policies. Their work impacts over 30 million Americans affected by more than 7,000 rare diseases123. Since 1983, NORD has been a national steward, ensuring that those battling rare diseases feel seen, heard, supported, and connected4.
Want To Become A Sponsor?
Interested in joining other local businesses and supporting a great cause? Inquire today and find out how you can partner with us as we work towards minimizing the financial impact in the rare disease community.
The Venue
The Oaks, nestled in Somersworth, NH, offers an enchanting coastal setting for various events. Beyond weddings, this versatile venue boasts:
Waterfront Views: Imagine your event against the backdrop of a stunning water fountain—a picturesque scene for any occasion.
Sophisticated Amenities: Guests will appreciate the manicured lawn overlooking a tranquil pond, complete with colorful water fountains. The floor-to-ceiling windows and well-maintained hardwood floors add elegance.
Delicious Offerings: From salads to entrees, the dining options are delectable. The Grandview also has white Chivari chairs, linens, and more.
Whether it’s a corporate seminar, charity gala, or family reunion, The Oaks promises unforgettable memories.
Make A Donation
Interested in donating? Make a donation to NORD and simply note that the funds are towards “The Stephanie Foster Education Fund for Rare Diseases”
Thank you in advance for helping us fight against rare diseases!