Own Your Own Universe 501 (C)(3) Nonprofit: EIN 27-3390938

A message from Terri Hendrix: Help us continue to transform lives through music and the creative arts!

“Own your own universe ...”

I sang — and lived by — those words for well over a decade before reframing the mantra into something more, something bigger, than just about my own career as a staunchly independent recording artist. Drawing on my firsthand experience turning to music and writing as a lifeline after being diagnosed with epilepsy in my early 20s, and further inspired by stories of resilience and beauty in the face of diversity I witnessed in countless others, I dreamed a community: an inclusive, all-ages organization with the mission of transforming lives through music and the creative arts. On December 19th, 2012, that dream turned into a reality with the official launch of the Own Your Own Universe (OYOU): a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization fostering creativity, connection, and healing that has now helped hundreds of individuals discover their voices and live more expressive lives.

Although now headquartered in Martindale, Texas, by design the OYOU has never been confined to a single town. In the early days before we even had a home base, we took it “on the road,” hosting programs throughout the state. And we still do that today. In addition to local programs in Martindale and nearby San Marcos like our monthly song circles, an annual Women’s Retreat, OYOUth music camps, and our free Snowbird Concert Series (soon to be called Songbird Concert Series), the OYOU offers a year-round calendar of online and in-person programs ranging from beginner-to-advanced-level music and writing workshops, to arts & DIY crafts, to multi-week sessions focused on mental health and personal development.

I also represent the OYOU in collaboration with other nonprofits and community initiatives, and I lead my own statewide program, OYOU SongBuddies, which provides accessible music and creative-arts opportunities for verbal and nonverbal adults with special needs.

Because accessibility starts with affordability, we keep our events free or low-cost, and we provide a robust scholarship program to ensure no one is turned away. We break down barriers — financial, physical, and social — that keep people from accessing the arts. Every program empowers individuals to explore music, creative writing, the arts, and personal growth in a supportive and inclusive community. We are especially proud of our specialized programs for individuals with special needs, those facing financial hardship, and people navigating health challenges. And though the OYOU of course relies on the invaluable help of volunteers, we are also committed to supporting the arts by providing PAID opportunities for every musician, visual artist, and teacher who leads our workshops or performs at OYOU events. Many of these instructors and artists have overcome personal health challenges of their own, and we value their talent and time when they share their gifts with the community and mentor others.

On Dec. 19th, 2025, the OYOU turned 13, and we look forward to continuing with our mission and expanding our dynamic range of programs throughout the new year and beyond. But in order to carry on and grow, we need YOU. Your generosity makes our work possible: Donations of all sizes support scholarships, keep programs and events free or reasonably affordable, and expand our outreach. Sponsorships help us bring free concerts and workshops into communities that need them most, and grants and partnerships amplify underrepresented voices and create opportunities for artists to thrive. Every dollar collected goes directly towards our programs and events! YOU keep the dream alive!

To explore our programs, events, and platinum rating on Candid/GuideStar for nonprofit transparency, please visit our WEBSITE.

With Gratitude,

Terri Hendrix (President/Founder)

Support OYOU — Own Your Own Universe