The OYOU hosts a diverse range of free and ticketed events and workshops, with a mission that extends beyond just the participants of our programs. We proudly hire artists and musicians to lead workshops and perform at our community concerts, providing them with additional income and, more importantly, a platform to inspire and educate. By offering a modest stipend, we are committed to giving back to the artistic community and fostering its growth.
Many of our workshop leaders have personally faced challenges such as neurological conditions, cancer, depression, and other health issues. They have embraced the opportunity to mentor individuals with similar experiences, inspiring others to overcome their own obstacles and encouraging them to enjoy a higher quality of life.
Furthermore, OYOU provides scholarships for all of our programs, ensuring that those who cannot afford tuition can still participate and learn. Our scholarships are awarded based on financial need and are available for teachers, veterans, special needs students, and patients dealing with medical conditions. We also offer scholarships for our children’s music camp and Kids Club, enabling children in need to attend at no cost.
At OYOU, we create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment that celebrates diversity through the creative arts. Our events help fill the gap in arts education that has become increasingly absent in underfunded public schools while also offering lifelong learning opportunities for adults and seniors.
To fully realize our mission, OYOU is continually expanding our programming at Wilory Farm and throughout our local community, which includes Caldwell, Hays, and Guadalupe Counties.
We run an ongoing initiative called "Playing for Good," offering free and low-cost music and writing programs at nursing homes, libraries, schools, and community centers. Additionally, we provide free concerts and music lessons for children and individuals with special needs. Our goal is to make a positive impact on as many lives as possible across 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." Your support of the OYOU and your donations have made this dream a reality.
Executive Director: Terri Hendrix