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|  What is a TimeBank? What is a TimeBank? TimeBanking is a reciprocal service exchange network in which people provide
help, support and services to one another by using time instead of money as the
currency. All TimeBank programs value one hour of service given to another as
one time credit. The objective for each member is to earn time credits by
dedicating time to others, and to use time credits by receiving assistance for
themselves. Exchanges range from support for activities for daily living to
personal enrichment. View a complete list of services that can be
exchanged through TimeBanksNYC. How will TimeBanking benefit me? TimeBanking provides you with an opportunity to become more active in your
community. Though every experience is different, you should expect to meet new
people, give and receive services, and learn new skills. Who can become a member of TimeBanksNYC? TimeBanksNYC is a closed membership community for individuals (aged 18 years
and older), businesses and organizations. What do I need to start TimeBanking? It is necessary to have a valid email address. If you do not have one, we can
assist you in creating one. In addition, you must complete an application which
requires three references (personal or professional), and participate in an
in-person or online orientation. Your membership will be activated upon the
fulfillment of these requirements. What is the time commitment? Your participation in TimeBanksNYC is up to you. You can participate as
often, or as little, as you like. A lot of the services provided represent
everyday activities, and can be something you already do on a daily basis.
Depending on what services you request from other members, TimeBanking could
also save you time. Why is everyone's time of equal value? Equality is a core value of TimeBanking. It recognizes that everyone is an
asset and that every human being has something meaningful to contribute.
TimeBanking underscores that no skill is more important than any other. Can I receive an exchange before I give? Yes, as a TimeBanksNYC member you can receive services before you give
services. What is most important is that you participate in exchanges. Remember,
members earn two credits for completing the mandatory orientation. Is it okay if my "time credits" are unbalanced? While we encourage each member to participate in TimeBanksNYC as both a
service provider and service receiver, it is perfectly okay for you to give more
services than you receive or for you to receive more services than you give. The
important thing is that you participate in TimeBank exchanges. How do I keep track of my exchanges? You can use the database to search for and keep track of your exchanges.
If you would like assistance in using the online system, TimeBanksNYC customer
service representatives are available to enter your service requests, offers,
and completed exchanges into the database. What if an exchange lasts less than an hour? You can enter the time spent on service exchanges in partial increments. We
recommend that you round up in 30 minute intervals (.50). How does this differ from regular volunteer work? TimeBanking is about building community assets. Instead of looking at the
needs that every community has, we look to the strengths of individuals to help
each other and in turn strengthen their community. As opposed to volunteering,
members who participate in TimeBanksNYC earn "credits" for the time they spend
sharing their skills with others. What is the history of TimeBanking? Dr. Edgar S. Cahn founded the TimeBank model in the early 1980s. Today, there
are more than 300 active TimeBanks in 26 countries. Over 1,000,000 hours of
service are exchanged through TimeBanks each year. For more information on the
TimeBanking philosophy established by Dr. Cahn, please visit the TimeBanksUSA website. How do I learn more about other volunteer opportunities? Visit NYC Service or call 311 to
learn more about Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg's initiative to promote volunteerism
throughout New York City. |  |
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