A local observance of International Women's Day (IWD) will be held on Saturday, March 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Parkesburg VFW Post 4480, 406 W. Fourth Ave., Parkesburg. The event will feature information and displays by local businesses and nonprofit organizations.

The event is being organized by Tina O'Connor, owner of Experience Positive Therapy of Parkesburg.

"I wanted to do something to celebrate female business owners, and IWD lined up with a Saturday," said O'Connor of the first-time event. "Vendors will sell items, provide information about their businesses and create displays to encourage young women to own their own business."

Businesses that have already registered to participate include Mama Donna's Bakery, Flowers in Bloom, Spiritual Creations 111, Clean with Mama Jane's, Skarlett's Mobile Notary and Professional Accounting Services and Therapy Center for Transformative Growth.

The Oxford Oaks Ministry, a nonprofit organization, and the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County (DVCCC).will also be on hand. DVCCC representatives will present a program at 11 a.m.

"This is an opportunity for (people) to market their business and for our local community to celebrate women-owned businesses and their achievements and educate and raise awareness about women's equality," said O'Connor.

Assisting O'Connor, who is a licensed professional counselor, will be Experience Positive Therapy staff members Lindsay Corkery, mental health clinician, and Kelly Dulaney, a master's level intern.

Local businesses and nonprofit organizations that would like to take part in the event will be asked to pay a registration fee. The fee covers use of the room at the Parkesburg VFW and a donation to DVCCC.

To register or for more information, contact O'Connor or Dulaney at 610-857-8089 or eptintern@gmail.com. The deadline to register is Thursday, March 6.

According to http://www.internationalwomensday.com, IWD is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The event is held annually on March 8. More information is available at the website.