Body in Balance is beginning its “1% for the World Initiative” commitment this month with the nonprofit 88Bikes Foundation, which endows bicycles to girls throughout the world.

LAHAINA – Body in Balance last week announced its “1% for the World Initiative,” a program in which 1 percent of the company’s profits each month will be donated to a different local or international nonprofit organization.

The fitness studio starts this commitment in July with the nonprofit 88Bikes Foundation, which endows bicycles to girls throughout the world, especially the heroic survivors of human trafficking.

“I’ve been wanting to start this program for years,” explained owner Amanda Furgiuele, “and I finally decided that there are seven days in a week and ‘someday’ isn’t one of them. So it was time to start, even if I’m only able to donate a small amount at first.”

“I grew up with a strong foundation in community service and involvement, and it’s important to me to give back in any way I can. I decided to start my program with 88Bikes because it’s been an important charity to me for the last ten years, and I hope my spotlight on this amazing organization will inspire others to contribute, to find something outside of themselves to believe in, or at least to raise awareness for important issues, both locally and internationally.”

Furgiuele will announce a different charity each month at the studio and feature information and brochures from each to educate her instructors, clients and friends.

“I haven’t decided on all the charities I will feature yet,” she continued, “so I hope my initiative will bring new charities to light. Maybe my clients and instructors can even share their favorite organizations.”

To learn more about the 88Bikes Foundation, or to donate, visit www.88bikes.org. To learn more about the “1% for the World Initiative,” go to www.BodyBalanceMaui.com.