The Long Beach Time Exchange

This summer, we are seeking community partners, and working with a steering committee that represents the diverse communities in Long Beach to prepare for public launch on September 12th, 2010.

If you're in the Long Beach area, please contact us at lbtimeexchange (at) gmail (dot) com for more information, or to be added to our email list.

Visit us on the web at http://www.lbtimeexchange.com

Time banks provide incentive and infrastructure for the kinds of things we’re already doing—helping each other out—by connecting community members’ needs and talents. In a time bank, rather than using money, members use “time dollars” to give and receive services, such as: tutoring, running errands, childcare, massage, gardening, learning new skills and hobbies—just about anything. Each hour is worth one time dollar. It’s not necessarily a one-to-one exchange; the time bank connects the whole community.

Time Bank members use Communi-Weaver to list the services they want to give and receive. The website introduces Time Bank members to each other, facilitates the exchange of services and keeps track of the Time Dollars exchanged. Members update their accounts, but can also enlist the help of “match-makers” in the community. Also, Time banks typically have monthly potlucks where members can meet each other.

Time banks work so well because they honor five core values.

I. Assets
We are all assets.
Every human being has something to contribute.

II. Redefining Work

Some work is beyond price.

Work has to be redefined to value whatever it takes to raise healthy children, build strong families, revitalize neighborhoods, make democracy work, advance social justice, make the planet sustainable. That kind of work needs to be honored, recorded and rewarded.

III. Reciprocity

Helping works better as a two-way street.

The question: “How can I help you?” needs to change so we ask: “How can we help each other build the world we both will live in?”

IV. Social Networks

We need each other. Networks are stronger than individuals. People helping each other reweave communities of support, strength & trust. Community is built upon sinking roots, building trust, creating networks. Special relationships are built on commitment.

V. Respect

Every human being matters.

Respect underlies freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and everything we value. Respect supplies the heart and soul of democracy. When respect is denied to anyone, we all are injured. We must respect where people are in the moment, not where we hope they will be at some future point.

Learn more about Time Banking at Time Banks USA
http://www.timebanks.org