TimeBank Hurunui in Action
Sarah gets her wind-fallen trees cleared up by Tom, Tom gets a meal cooked by Annie, Annie gets Caro to tutor her son, Fin, in maths, Fin walks Belinda's dog, and Belinda shows Sarah how to set up a Facebook account, and so the cycle of trading skills goes on.
TimeBank Hurunui is not just for individuals. Organisations such as schools or sports clubs also participate.
Please note: TimeBank Hurunui uses the term "TimeBank Hours" rather than "TimeBank Dollars"
Five Core Values of the TimeBanking Movement
- We are all assets - every human being has something to contribute
- Redefining work - rewarding the real work in our society by creating a currency which pays people for helping each other and creating better places to live
- Reciprocity - giving and receiving are basic human needs which help to build relationships and trust with others
- Social Networks - building people's social capital is very important, belonging to a social network gives our lives more meaning
- Respect- encouraging people to respect others in their community.
For more information on these core values: http://www.timebanks.org/social-justice.htm
"If we accept a market definition of work, there are a few minor omissions worth noting. Work does not include: raising children, taking care of one's elder parents, keeping one's family functioning, being a good neighbour, or being a good citizen. So work includes everything - except family, community and democracy. Some of us think those things are rather important. If they can't be addressed as work within the market, it is clear we need a larger framework than that supplied by market."
Edgar S. Cahn
Edgar S Cahn developed the TimeBanking concept in the USA. Since then, it has spread to many countries around the world. For background reading on TimeBanking, we recommend Edgar S Cahn's book, No More Throw Away People.
