Timebanking is a medium of exchange, like frequent flier miles, or the dollar. In a timebank, members exchange services by posting offers and requests. When members provide services, they receive Time Credits.  When they receive services, they spend Time Credits. This video gives a great illustration of how it works.

We ask all members to attend a 60-minute orientation before joining the timebank. We hold orientations monthly. Orientations are valuable because they give prospective members a chance to learn how the timebank works, ask questions, and meet other members. The timebank is all about building relationships, and orientations are the first step in connecting with others!

How is the timebank coordinated?

The Timebank operates under the leadership of the Director of DA Communities United. Our dedicated coordinator plays a pivotal role in facilitating Timebank orientations, organizing monthly gatherings, coordinating group exchanges, managing online systems, and fostering connections among our members.

Furthermore, our Timebank offers various action teams for members to engage with. We highly encourage participation in these teams, which include Orientation, Recruitment, Happy Mail, Fundraising, and Celebrations.

I don't have enough time. Can I still participate?

Many timebank members find that participating in the timebank actually frees up their time. For example, Roger had David diagnose and fix his car all within 3 hours, instead of waiting an entire day or sometimes more at an auto shop. Roger also saved money!
Timebank members exchange on their own time. This means that you can set your own schedule of exchanges, and say no to anything that doesn't work for you. If you feel you have no time to provide right now, you may still have the time (and need) to receive. You can always balance this in the future, when more time might be available for you to provide!

How can I trust other members?

Is timebanking the same as bartering?

No. Timebanking is based solely on the exchange of time, not of goods. While timebanking is tax-exempt, bartering is not.

No! You can say "no" to any offer or request you aren't interested in. The exchanges you engage in are completely up to you.

You might be surprised by the services our members share! Our timebank has offers for everything from transportation to collaborative artwork! You can always explore the requests and see if there's a need you may be able to fill. 

We understand that there may be times when members need to receive more services than they are able to give, and vice versa. Generally, we suggest that you stay within the -15 to 15 hour range. If you're concerned about your hour balance, let us know and we can help you find ways to get involved and even your balance.

Reciprocity is one of the five core values of timebanking. It’s wonderful to want to share your skills and give to others, but if there is no one to receive services, the timebank won’t work! By receiving services from other members, you are giving others a chance to share their gifts.

If you’re having trouble thinking of services you might like to receive, take a look at what other members are offering. You might be surprised by what you find! Do you need help tackling an organizing project or sewing on a missing button? Would you like to have a workout buddy, find a music teacher, or learn to cook a new dish? What would add more joy and fulfilment in your life?

Explore more about Mesilla Valley Timebank!