Own Your Own Universe (OYOU) is a 501 C3 non-profit organization based out of San Marcos and Martindale, Texas.  It is our mission to make the arts accessible to everyone, and particularly to empower and transform lives by connecting the mind, body, and spirit through music and the creative arts. 

The OYOU hosts a variety of free and ticketed events and workshops. Our mission also serves more than just the participants at our events and programs. At OYOU we hire artists and musicians to lead workshops or perform at our community concerts; providing them with additional income and more importantly a format in which to inspire and teach. By providing a modest stipend, we are able to give back to the artist community by providing a means in which to support it. 

Some of our workshop leaders have been affected by neurological conditions, cancer, depression, and other health challenges. They have found a role in mentoring students with similar health conditions and inspiring others to rise above their own personal challenges so that they, too, can embrace and enjoy a higher quality of life. 

In addition, the OYOU provides scholarships for every program offered, allowing those who would otherwise be unable to afford tuition to attend and learn. Scholarships are offered based on financial need and for teachers, veterans, special needs students, and patients who are suffering from medical conditions. The OYOU also has scholarships available for our children's music camp and kid's club, so that children in need can attend for free. 

The OYOU creates a welcoming, non-judgmental backdrop that celebrates diversity through the creative arts. Our events help fill a void for arts based education that is increasingly absent in budget-strapped public schools. Our events also offer lifelong learning opportunities for adults and senior citizens. 

In order to serve our mission to the fullest extent, the OYOU is continuing to expand programming at our venue on Wilory Farm, and within our community. We offer an ongoing series called "Playing for Good" with music and writing programs at nursing homes, libraries, schools, and centers, so that we can positively impact as many lives as possible in Central Texas. 

"The OYOU’s story began when I was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of twenty one.  Music, writing, and the creative arts helped me to thrive personally and professionally as a musician in spite of my own challenges with my health. Through personal experience, I discovered that my life’s passion was to introduce others to a wide spectrum of the arts, providing a path and the tools to live one's best life regardless of difficult circumstances, experiences or limitations. It started as an idea about creating a space where anyone; regardless of finances, social and or mobility issues, age or gender, can embrace and enjoy the creative arts without fear of bias or discrimination. My concept became an official 501 C3 Nonprofit in December 12th, 2012." 

Thank you for your support. Your generosity makes the OYOU possible. 

Terri Hendrix

Executive Director