To celebrate female-owned businesses and local artisans as well as to raise awareness and support for the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County (DVCCC), an event titled "For Women by Women" was held in Parkesburg on May 16.

Activities took place on Main Street in the borough, where the businesses are located. Visitors were invited to shop in the stores and view live outdoor art demonstrations presented by local female artists. Danielle Dougherty, DVCCC director of philanthropic partnerships, was on hand offering small gifts and providing informational brochures about the agency, which provides programs and services for survivors of domestic violence in Chester County.

"The 200 block is all female-owned businesses," explained Tina O'Connor, a licensed professional counselor with Experience Positive Therapy. In addition to O'Connor's business, other female-owned businesses on the block include Sweet Serendipity Cupcakes and Treats, Flowers in Bloom, The Little Shop Next Door and Fountain Springs Wellness Spa.

Monetary donations were accepted for the DVCCC, and the businesses collected donations of toiletries, bedding and clothing items for the women and children who are part of DVCCC's shelter and housing program. Those interested in donating to the DVCCC may visit http://www.dvcccpa.org/wish-list for more details.

There were two baskets given away through a random drawing featuring items donated by the local stores. Parkesburg Lights donated a rare purple Parkesburg Lamp to be included in the giveaway. The color of the lamp was chosen intentionally since purple is the official color associated with domestic abuse awareness.

McKenna Moments Photography was also in attendance to offer mini photography sessions, with the proceeds donated to the DVCCC.

Among the artists featured during the day were Jenny Alexander from the Painted Lily, who demonstrated her floral collage technique, and Ivy Egger of Vine Designs, who attaches items to her paintings to create 3D pieces. "I turn paintings into mosaics," she explained. "I (add) beads, tile and even some seashells."

Both O'Connor and Alexander are members of the Parkesburg Action Committee (PAC). They announced that PAC's next event will be the Final Friday program scheduled for June 25 at 5 p.m. on the 200 block of Main Street. Final Friday, which runs on the last Friday of each month from April through October, includes a street fair with vendors, live music, displays by community groups and activities for children. The theme for the event on June 25 will be "School's Out."

For more details, visit http://www.facebook.com/PAC19365.

More information about the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County is available at http://www.dvcccpa.org.