Dining setup in the Mary Divver Room at Park Avenue Armory

Nonprofit Events

Nonprofit Event Catering
in New York City

Unleash Joy through Genuine Hospitality™Great Performances has been a trusted partner to New York City’s nonprofit community for more than 40 years, supporting organizations of every size with events that inspire, celebrate, and mobilize supporters. We bring our delicious food, seamless service, and an understanding of the unique goals that drive nonprofit gatherings to events of any size and scope.

You’ll work with the same event director from proposal through execution, supported by agile teams who can navigate shifting timelines, evolving guest counts, complex venues, and the many moving parts that make nonprofit events so meaningful.

Table setting at a nonprofit gala at SummerStage Table setting at a nonprofit gala at SummerStage
Live performance at a nonprofit gala event Live performance at a nonprofit gala event
Black-tie gala set under a tent at Brooklyn Bridge Park Black-tie gala set under a tent at Brooklyn Bridge Park

Catering for Nonprofit Events

We understand the rhythm of nonprofit events: program cues, donor moments, and mission-forward storytelling; and design services that supports each one seamlessly.

Our teams handle food, beverage, staffing, logistics, and production, ensuring your event runs smoothly while you focus on engaging your community.

Guests mingling at a nonprofit gala at Hall des Lumières Guests mingling at a nonprofit gala at Hall des Lumières

Galas, Benefits & Large-Scale Fundraising Events

Large nonprofit events require precision, creativity, and the ability to move hundreds — sometimes thousands — of guests through an evening with ease. We regularly support:

  • – Fundraising galas
  • – Awards ceremonies
  • – Annual benefits
  • – Seasonal celebrations & signature events
  • – Large public-facing programs and community gatherings
Plated first course served at a nonprofit gala Plated first course served at a nonprofit gala

Member Events, Community Programs & Smaller Gatherings

We also cater the many events that deepen relationships with your audience throughout the year, including:

  • – Member previews and exhibition openings
  • – Public programs and talks
  • – Donor receptions and stewardship events
  • – Volunteer and community appreciation gatherings
  • – Press events, breakfasts & small receptions
Candy bar station at a nonprofit fundraiser Candy bar station at a nonprofit fundraiser
Team gathered outdoors at a nonprofit farm-to-table dinner Team gathered outdoors at a nonprofit farm-to-table dinner
Table setting at a nonprofit gala at The Glasshouse Table setting at a nonprofit gala at The Glasshouse

How We Do It: Culinary at the Center

Menus for every occasion, designed with care.

Inspired by the produce at our own Katchkie Farm and the pulse of New York’’s diverse and innovative culinary landscape, we design menus that fit seamlessly within the contours of your event.

Dining tables set for a nonprofit gala at Park Avenue Armory Dining tables set for a nonprofit gala at Park Avenue Armory

Custom Design and Branded Moments

Our in-house design studio specializes in moment-making.

From custom displays and signage to program-driven staging, our team of designers and chefs work together to seamlessly and elegantly wow while being mindful of the events message and tone.

Entrance view of a foundation gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center Entrance view of a foundation gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center

Access to Exclusive and Iconic Venues

A site specific approach, no matter the site.

From private homes to community locations, our white glove service transcends location.

As the exclusive or preferred caterer for many of New York City’s celebrated cultural institutions and event spaces, we give our clients access to unique venues for gatherings of all kinds.

Explore Our Venues
Gala dining setup inside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine Gala dining setup inside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Table setting at a nonprofit benefit dinner Table setting at a nonprofit benefit dinner