Denise Walsh went to college for dance and always dreamed of opening her own studio, to join other entrepreneurs. As a new graduate in the early 80s, she wasn’t sure where to start. That’s where SCORE came in. Her volunteer mentor connected her with an attorney and helped her develop a business plan.

Soon after, she incorporated her then-business, Aerobics To You, an at-home workout routine that she provided in clients’ homes or other locations. Every six weeks, Walsh devised a new workout regimen.

“It was time-consuming and a creative burden,” she recalled. “I was not making a lot of money. I was ready to go into the workforce and not be a businessperson anymore.”

As luck would have it, the owner of a dance studio approached her about taking over the business. She worked in the studio for a year before buying it and running it for 12 years.

In the years since Walsh has bought and sold a few other business entities.

The newly retired Walsh, 62, of Montgomery County, is now looking to impart her business insight on other entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Over the summer, she began training to become a SCORE Bucks County certified mentor. Her area of expertise, given her background, is on buying and selling a business.

She is enjoying being on the other side of business ownership and helping clients, who, like her, need guidance on various levels of starting or running a business.

“They helped me all these years ago and maybe this is how I can help,” Walsh said. “It really is full circle.”

Walsh has been learning much along the way as she co-mentors with the chapter’s Chairwoman, Linda Zangrilli, as well as fellow mentor, Nina De Rosa. Zangrilli said she is excited to have Walsh be part of the chapter.

“Many of our clients are seeking advice on buying and selling a business,” Zangrilli said. “Denise brings a wealth of experience in that area. She knows how and when to buy and sell as well as how to avoid the pitfalls.”

In addition to helping fellow entrepreneurs, Walsh said she enjoys making vital connections with clients.

“I really don’t want to be retired. This will help me stay busy and decide what I want to do in my next chapter,” Walsh said. “I don’t know what my next gig will be but I’m sure it will be something along the lines of helping people.”

Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 11 million aspiring entrepreneurs. Each year, SCORE provides small business mentoring and workshops to more than 375,000 new and growing small businesses and entrepreneurs. With 50 members across the county, SCORE Bucks County provides over 1,500 free mentoring services annually to local small business owners through one-on-one counseling and small business seminars. 

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