What is a TimeBank?
TimeBank helps connect people to exchange skills and services, using time rather than dollars. When a member provides one hour of service for someone, they earn one Time Credit. They can then spend this Time Credit by receiving an hour of service from someone else. The possibilities for exchange are endless and may include home repair, animal care, yard work, cooking lessons, computer instruction, etc. All services are valued equally, and all members are respected for what they have to offer. It is an old idea made new - the idea that our community is stronger when neighbors make a practice of helping each other.
How Does it Work?
Each member has an individual account that is used for posting services and requests, and for recording exchange activity. Services can range from gardening help, animal care, tutoring, transportation, guitar lessons, bike repair... the possibilities are endless!
Who We Are
The New River Valley TimeBank is a project of New River Valley Home, a non-profit that works to foster vibrant, lifespan-friendly communities by connecting people, resources and organizations. It was developed and through the efforts of the NRV Livability Initiative and the NRV Aging in Place Leadership Team.
What Skills and Services Can I Offer/Request?
Examples of different types of exchanges include...
- Arts and Crafts: scrapbooking, drawing/painting, knitting/crochet, photography, woodworking
- Be a friend: contact or visit a housebound person, help to facilitate their Time Credit exchanges applications
- Business services: bookkeeping, office support, graphic design, computers, computer applications (Skype, email, social networking, etc.), electronics
- Communication: translating, language help, letter writing
- Cooking: meal planning, cooking skills, grocery shopping, meal delivery
- Gardening: planning, planting, weeding, watering composting, harvesting
- Healthy Lifestyles: yoga, massage, relaxation, meditation, nutrition guidance, herbal medicines
- Home Maintenance: yard care, handyman services, painting basic plumbing/electrical
- Pet Care: sitting, feeding, walking, grooming, training
- Recreation: walking, hiking, biking, sports
- Learning: music lessons, language instruction, tutoring
- Timebank administration: orientations, phone calls, newsletters, events
- Transportation: appointments, field trips, pickup/delivery
The TimeBank is a network for the community to share their time and talents. The range of different services you can offer is limitless!!!
How Do I Get Started?
Just click here! Getting Started