Own Your Own Universe
Creativity. Connection. Healing.
Inspired by the phrase “Own Your Own Universe,” Terri Hendrix founded the Own Your Own Universe (OYOU) in 2012 to help people discover their voices through music, singing, writing, and the creative arts. Drawing from her own experience using creativity as a lifeline after being diagnosed with epilepsy, spasmodic dysphonia, and essentila vocal tremor, Terri envisioned an inclusive community where people of all ages and abilities could connect, heal, learn, and thrive.
Today, OYOU is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization dedicated to transforming lives through inclusive programming, community, and creative expression. We provide free and low-cost programs, scholarships, workshops, concerts, camps, retreats, and community events designed to remove financial, physical, and social barriers to participation. We are especially committed to serving individuals with disabilities, health challenges, and limited financial resources.
OYOU also supports the arts by ensuring that the musicians, artists, and educators who lead our programs are compensated for their time and expertise. Through their mentorship and creativity, hundreds of participants have gained confidence, built meaningful connections, and discovered new ways to express themselves.
As we continue to grow, your support helps keep programs accessible, scholarships available, artists paid, and creative opportunities within reach for everyone. Together, we can continue building a community where every voice matters and creativity belongs to all.
Thank you for helping us keep the OYOU dream alive.
SongBuddies special needs programs
The SongBuddies Project embodies OYOU’s vision of expanding access to the arts across Texas. By removing barriers and adapting to diverse needs, OYOU ensures that individuals with cognitive and developmental disabilities are not only included, but celebrated. Each session empowers participants to communicate, connect, and thrive through music — the most universal language of all.
Community Based Arts & Cultural Programs
The OYOU advances creative expression and community well-being through an accessible portfolio of low-cost and free arts and cultural initiatives. Programs and events include rear round in-person and online workshops, Sunflower Women’s Retreat, San Marvelous Writers Festival, the Songbird Concert Series, Tammi Fest, community song circles, youth music camps, and Merry Martindale Kid Entrepreneurs. Together, these offerings provide opportunities for artistic development, intergenerational connection, cultural participation, and creative engagement and expression. By creating welcoming spaces for people of all ages and abilities to learn, create, perform, and share their ideas, The OYOU helps build a more connected and inspired community.
Creative Youth Development Programs
Team OYOUth is a creative community for youth ages 8–19 who love music, writing, art, and self-expression. Through songwriting, music-making, poetry, creative projects, and collaborative activities, participants build confidence, creativity, and leadership skills while having fun and making friends.
Members enjoy opportunities to perform, participate in the Merry Martindale Kid Entrepreneurs market, and attend the OYOU Youth Music Camp, culminating in a live showcase. Whether your child is just beginning their creative journey or already exploring their talents, OYOUth Club provides a welcoming space to learn, grow, and let their voice be heard.
