FIT3 and iMADdu Encourage Balance in the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs in the DC Area

April 18, 2011 - PRLog -- A one of a kind concept superstore, FIT3 is a retail destination where fitness, health, and wellness come together.  In an effort to encourage budding entrepreneurs in the DC area, FIT3 is sponsoring The Student Apprenticeship Program at the Fairfax non-profit iMADdu (I make a difference, do you?).

“I think it is great that iMADdu creates the opportunity for businesses to get the benefit of bright and talented apprentices while the apprentices get the benefit of career enhancing experience, mentorship, and challenge,” says Hal Smith, CEO of FIT3.  “It is truly a "win-win" combination.”

“The ability for students to be mentored by repeat, successful entrepreneurs is an experience that isn’t easily replicated in schools,” says iMADdu Founder Mona Olsen, a current PhD student at George Mason University’s Graduate School of Education. “With Hal’s leadership of the FIT3 team and the mentorship from the iMADdu team, we are able to make a difference in the lives of the next generation of entrepreneurs in the DC area.”

iMADdu’s Student Apprenticeship Program provides opportunities for entrepreneurial students to gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships with local businesses. iMADdu bridges the gap between the academic and the practical that is typically not addressed in university level education. FIT3’s support of iMADdu will result in the advancement of the next generation of successful entrepreneurs.

“FIT3 provides wonderful free services, including yoga classes and running assessments, so that people can get the most of their fitness routine and equipment,” says iMADdu Social Media Apprentice Cheryl Cordingley. “This system, though somewhat unconventional, inspires me as an entrepreneur who wants to help others.”

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About FIT3: FIT3 is the single largest fitness lifestyle store in North America. More than just mass merchandise, FIT3 presents the full gamut of name brand fitness equipment, running apparel and footwear, along with the widest selection of healthy lifestyle products including vitamins and nutritional supplements and a huge selection of the top yoga brands for apparel and accessories. The knowledgeable, experienced staff are specialists and will ensure you get the right tools for the job.

About iMADdu: iMADdu empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs by providing hands-on experiences through apprenticeships that impact the local small business community. iMADdu bridges the gap between the academic and the practical at the university level. For more information, visit www.iMakeADifferenceDoYou.org or follow us on Facebook/iMADduorg and Twitter: imadduorg.