In a close-knit neighborhood, residents organized an annual Skillshare Festival through Timebanking. During the festival, community members hosted workshops to …
In the heart of our community lies a dream:
A connected society where no one stands alone.
We envision a world where everyone, young and old, feels the warmth of belonging, and where each smile, every shared story, and every helping hand bridges the isolation gap and creates bonds of friendship.
The scenes above show a warm and inviting environment where seniors and volunteers of all ages are actively engaged in activities, such as learning new skills and participating in communal projects. The images capture the atmosphere of warmth, inclusivity, and active participation, emphasizing the positive impact of Timebanking on the lives of seniors.
About Timebanking
The original narrative from Edgar Cahn, the Founder of Timebanking
Podcast: Timebankers' stories of exchanges in time, stories read by Chris Gray, with reflections by Edgar Cahn on the meanings he saw in them.
"Every day, somewhere on the globe, untold thousands of people are actually earning 'time credits' helping other human beings and, in different ways, advancing social justice."
... Edgar S. Cahn, Founder of Timebanking
(in the book 'No More Throw-Away People')
Timebanking offers a way for people to connect with one another, support each other, and build stronger, more resilient communities. This approach to exchange and support can help members of a community to connect and improve their overall well-being. Here are some of the benefits.
Timebanking stories & articles ...
In an artistic neighborhood, residents wanted to establish a space where creativity could flourish and be accessible. They transformed an …
In an urban area with limited resources for youth mentorship, a group of dedicated individuals created a Youth Mentorship Initiative …
Residents in a culturally diverse neighborhood recognized the importance of bridging language barriers to foster understanding and unity. They established …
Many residents in a diverse urban community faced challenges maintaining their homes due to financial constraints or limited physical abilities. …
A senior companionship program was initiated in an urban neighborhood to combat loneliness and isolation among elderly residents. Retirees and …
Timebanking Activity - Roles
The community people can participate in Timebanking activities in one or more of the following roles.
Member
All Timebank participants must be registered as members of a community Timebank. Members can only meet in a public place.
Full Member
If Members want to meet at anyone's home, both must be upgraded to Full Membership for the protection of vulnerable Members.
Organization Member
Non-profit organizations, businesses, and community groups can sign up as an Organization member in a Timebank.
Coordinator
Coordinator is a Member upgrade and supports members in their activities. Coordinators also engage in community outreach activity.
Steering Committee
The Steering Committee manages the affairs of Timebanking Canada and oversees the Timebank operations.
Timebanking Value Statements
Your Value Proposition to Join Timebanking
Overall, the value proposition of Timebanking is the opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient community where people can connect, support one another, and improve their well-being. This can be a valuable resource for people of all ages and backgrounds, providing a way to give back to the community, learn new skills, and build meaningful relationships.
"Timebanking is not just about exchanging services, it's about building relationships. It's about connecting with others in the community and creating a culture of mutual support and collaboration."
"Timebanking provides a way for people to give back to their community while also receiving support when needed. It's a win-win situation, where everyone benefits."
"Timebanking offers a unique opportunity for people to learn new skills, improve existing ones, and feel valued and connected. It's about exchanging time, not just services, and building a community based on trust and mutual respect."
"Timebanking helps to reduce social isolation and build stronger, more resilient communities. It connects people who may be facing similar challenges and provides a way for them to support one another."
Edgar Cahn, the founder of TimeBanks.org, has given these five core values that stand at the heart of successful timebanking and have stood the test of time.
- Asset – Every one of us has something of value to share with someone else.
- Redefining Work – Money will not quickly pay for some forms of work, like building strong families, revitalizing neighborhoods, making democracy work, and advancing social justice. Time credits were designed to reward, recognize and honor that work.
- Reciprocity – “How can I help you?” needs to change, so we ask: “Will you help someone too?” Paying it forward ensures that we help each other build the world we all will live in.
- Community/Social Networks – Helping each other, we reweave communities of support, strength & trust. Community is built by sinking roots, building trust, and creating networks.
- Respect – The heart and soul of democracy lies in respect for others. We strive to respect where people are in the moment, not where we hope they will be at some future point.
