What is a timebank? A timebank is an up-and-coming community group that builds a caring local economy through the exchange of time and talent rather than money. Members share valuable skills with one another creating win-win situations for all involved.
There are timebanks all across America. Many of them are affiliated with TimeBanks USA. The mission of TimeBanks USA is to nurture and expand a movement that promotes equality and builds caring community exchanges.
Now, the Temecula Valley has its very own timebank and it is building membership steadily.
With the economy changing and many out of work and underutilized, the Temecula Valley TimeBank comes at a good time. Timebanks are a great way to build communities and tap into the talent and passions of people. Members swap time based upon a "timedollar" system. The only thing to pay for is any product exchanged and a nominal new member donation.
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One of the coordinators, Ed Olsen says, "For me, the most important benefit is the ability to expand social and economic relationships that are not founded in money."
The first meeting of the Temecula Valley TimeBank was initiated by Kathy Lynch, the founder and primary coordinator of Temecula Valley TimeBank.
"When I first learned about timebanks, tears came to my eyes. I knew I had to start one in our community," said Kathy.
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She organized a meeting on February 16th, 2012. From that initial meeting, a group of additional coordinators was assembled: Ed and Jesse Olsen, Michele Miller, and Tanya Gault. The team of coordinators meets regularly to refine policies and ensure smooth operations.
Examples of recent exchanges include: edible garden work, plumbing, painting, and drywall repair. All these projects were offered in exchange for timedollars. The timebank can come in quite handy when members need something done. Group projects work as well. Coordinator Michele Miller, says, "The timebank exposes me to a lot of new skills I wouldn't have otherwise known about."
No one person is more valuable than another. The timebank puts all persons on equal ground. All members have something to offer regardless of education, race, creed, etc. The timebank values time, service, and welfare of its members.
Coordinator, Tanya Gault says, "It feels like a family of wholesome people who share a passion to give."
Coordinator, Jesse Olsen, adds, "It feels good to give and receive from others. When Kathy helped me with a project, I smiled all day."
For more information about the Temecula Valley TimeBank, please visit http://temecula.timebanks.org. You can obtain an application and get started in the process of becoming a valued timebank member.
Timebank meetings are held every month so that members and their families and guests can meet one another. All members of the community are welcome to attend as a guest to see if the timebank makes sense for them.
Imagine the possibilities... having help in the garden, help cooking, a ride to the grocery store, a free workshop, a cooking class, or a free hair cut? Whatever talents a member has may be just what someone else desperately needs.
