New York City - Founded in 1968, the GO Project provides academic assistance and social services to low-income, under-performing elementary school children in Lower Manhattan. This year's event was held on April 22, at Donna Karan's Steven Weiss Gallery on Greenwich Street, attended by more than 400 people. Young chef (and Ross School student) Greg Grossman was invited to provide the food served during the course of the evening.

Chef Grossman with his crew of volunteers.

According to this very professional and talented young man, whose culinary skills have been creating quite a stir for the past few years, "I asked my friends at Nespresso to set-up a booth to serve coffee while I worked developing a menu of 'modern interpretations of contemporary coffee inspired cuisine.' I prepped for one week, getting most items donated, invented the menu with Nespresso in mind, ordered equipment and got friends to donate great items to the silent auction. The liquid nitrogen espresso popcorn flowed, tiramisu macarons were perfect and the sweet espresso caviar with vanilla cream custard was amazing."

Grossman further elaborates "Of course, the espresso cotton candy was so cool and better than I expected. I spent a great deal of time setting up the 'crew,' young chefs who graciously donated their time to help with service and prep, while explaining the chemicals and processes used to prepare these dishes (post menu)."

Each year the GO Project hosts a benefit and auction to raise funds. This event is the foundation of GO's fundraising for the year, accounting for a large percentage of the total budget. The GO Project Benefit is a substantial gathering of GO supporters, consisting mostly of parents from private schools throughout New York City and other civic minded individuals. All proceeds from the event help fund the program to continue making a difference in the lives of families in lower Manhattan.

GO identifies public school students performing below grade level and helps improve their academic performance, build self-esteem, and develop essential life skills. GO's year-round programs address the intellectual, social and emotional needs of children and their families.

Appreciative guests gather around the offerings prepared by Chef Greg Grossman.

"Working with benefits in the service of helping kids eat healthier and get important services they otherwise could not afford is a great feeling. I'm glad to help, and obviously, I love to cook. This was my first attempt at a dessert service and I thank everyone who helped me pull it off! . Every penny goes directly to helping the families. I have to thank Ross School for nurturing the spirit of giving and charity in all my friends, at home and beyond!"

Next up for chef Grossman, "I am so lucky to be attending the James Beard Foundation Awards Ceremony at Lincoln Center. I will be in the company of the most famous chefs in the world!"

For information on the GO Project visit www.GOProjectNYC.org.