Our History:

Perform 4 Purpose began with the desire of a young sixth-grade boy to help his friend who had just been given six months to live.  With the help of his guitar teachers, students, and community members, a performance was put together to raise some money for this child's medical expenses.  Through the help of many individuals, this youg man became a survivor.  Today, he is preparing for his high school graduation in June of 2013.

Shortly after, his guitar teacher, Jim Van Arsdale, and his daughter, Jennifer, began to think about how positive an experience this had been for Jim's students.  More importantly, if they did it once for one young man, then they could do it again and again and help many others.  From that day on they performed for a purpose.  Since this initial benefit, local students and veteran performers have contributed to various local causes raising thousands of dollars for those in need in Central New York.