Madison, WI
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The concept is simple. Each member of the bank donates time doing something he or she is good at–be it installing a sink, babysitting, dog walking, driving, or planning a time-bank meeting–and in return can receive the same number of hours of services from any other member. The bank keeps track–one hour equals one virtual dollar. “It’s not a barter system,” Jeff is quick to say. Bartering implies a one-on-one trade of goods and services, whereas time banking is asymmetrical. Thus A helps B, who helps C, who helps D, who helps B.
Reasons for joining range from practical to personal. Vishada Johnson joined because she needs a ride to the grocery store for food for herself and three young children, following the recent demise of the free Women’s Transit Authority. Mandy Coboh, a high school sophomore who signed up in order to conquer her shyness and get to know the community better, studies French and Spanish with time-bank members. Both she and Johnson donate child care; Coboh also tutors in math. Member Ben Schumaker points out with pride that eight people quickly responded to a recent call from an elderly member who wanted volunteers to sit with her.
To become a member, you fill out a form indicating what you can offer and what you might need. A reference is required, and Rearick performs criminal background checks. The bank doesn’t accept people convicted of first- or second-degree sexual assault on children. It pays volunteer liability insurance, coming to about $2 per member.
