Denise Vasquez and Wo+Men 4 a Cause

Rarely do we find a true Renaissance man in our world. A person who finds the time and has the talent to excel in a myriad of areas. However, there is always exceptions and Denise Vasquez is just that - a modern day Renaissance woman. She is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, photographer, writer, illustrator and actress. She loves art – she loves music – she loves to create and she conceives her work from her soul.

In speaking with Denise, only one other aspect of her life trumped her desire to create – she has an intense desire to give back. Her list of causes that she banners is lengthy – the American Red Cross, I’m 2 Young For This, Cancerpalooza, Peace Thru Music, and Make A Wish Foundation in conjunction with the 501st Legion.

In 1999, Denise discovered a way of coupling her two passions – she started Wo+Men 4 A Cause. Wo+Men 4 A Cause is a movement to assist women in the art community and provide them support and awareness. The first Wo+Men 4 A Cause event was held in 1999 in the U.S. Virgin Islands and featured ten artists. Denise grew this movement and in 2006, Wo+Men 4 A Cause held an event in Los Angeles. The half day long celebration of women and arts featured ten female comedians and twenty-six women led bands/musical acts. Not only did the event bring much needed awareness for the female artists but also Denise used the event as a vehicle to host a blood drive for the American Red Cross.
Through Wo+Men 4 A Cause, Denise has found a way to create and give. She applies her creativity to the benefit of others and helps so many. Denise is truly dedicated to her Wo+Men 4 A Cause and hopes to make it a not-for-profit entity someday. Her dream is to always provide women support, awareness and a plethora of opportunities in the art community. In addition to the advancement of women in arts, she hopes to develop events that can also give back to the community in some way.
As she says about herself, “an artist who creates because it is part of her being.” And, I believe she gives back because it is part of her soul.