In April 2009 I posted an update on the worldwide popularity of the Lower Mainland TimeBank on the internet. People from around the world visit our site to learn more about TimeBanking (very cool). And we have many links I’m sure they go and visit, to learn even more.
The number of visitors to our website has exploded from almost 2,000 in March 2009 unique visitors to 9,000 unique visitors in the month of May 2010! Very cool.
Here’s a look at all the countries that visit our site:
Our website visitors...It's a small world these days
I didn’t pay much attention to the pre-Olympic buzz and only heard about the torch relay running past my home (just a block away) at 7am, the night before.
What the heck I thought, once-in-a-lifetime and all that, so I got up and out MUCH earlier than usual with my trusty video camera to see what all the fuss was about.
It was an enthusiastic crowd waiting and the parade of vehicles giving advance notice was a surprise. The torch exchange happened to take place right in front of me.
I decided to head off later in the day for a second unique spot, which led to one more viewing point not far away (just for a different camera angle).
The next day a friend was carrying the torch so off we went to capture it.
Low and behold at the end of that second day (which was the final day of the relay) I hear a commotion around the corner and here comes the torch relay again right past me. What the heck grab the camera!
So from no awareness or interest to video clips of five torch relay viewing points. I must admit the energy of the crowds was very positive and uplifting. It was a great way to introduce the Olympics to Canada.
Here’s my 13 minute video of what I saw those two days (just got around to finishing the editing and titles). Enjoy.
Another news story about TimeBanks, this one from Boston.
This article stresses the equalizing effect of a TimeBank:
“At a philosophical level, time banking promises a form of egalitarianism through an alternate economy. In its world, a lawyer’s time is equal to a babysitter’s, and everyone, regardless Continue reading ‘TimeBanks, Making Difference’ »
Every group requires leadership which includes people like you offering time, talent and a terrific attitude. In order for you and your community to experience the best of TimeBanking each community needs their local leaders.
Here’s a nice video from a UK TimeBank that explores the benefits of TimeBanking. Meet real people who share their experiences participating in TimeBanking.
Come discover TimeBanking for you. Help create a neighbourhood network by bringing TimeBanking to your community. Find a meeting place and we will come to inform and educate on the why and how of TimeBanking.
There are often questions around whether or not TimeCredits are money (many TimeBanks use the term TimeDollars, LMTB and smoe other TimeBanks use the term TimeCredits, they are the same thing).
In my understanding and opinion it’s best to keep away from monetary words and concepts as much as possible. The short answer is NO TimeCredits are not money, but they allow you to do many of the same things money does.
To me TimeBanking is about helping your neighbour because you can, and you also know that someone will be there to help you when you need it. Kind of like Continue reading ‘Is it money or what?’ »
“It shouldn’t require an epic disaster to bring people together, but it is all too often the case. Why do we need an “excuse” to go out and meet neighbors on the street corner, to show hospitality to a stranger or to anticipate and respond to the needs of others?
I don’t have an answer for this, except to say that, if some kind of excuse is needed, then TimeBanking is such an excuse.
TimeBanking works proactively where storms work reactively, in providing opportunities and reasons for people to gather. It is the loom upon which community can be woven, as long as there are people willing to pull the threads.” Continue reading ‘TimeBanking a great excuse…’ »
feel connected in my community and make a positive difference,
have people in my life I could count on to ask for a helping hand
share my time and talents with people genuinely wanting my help.
TimeBanking is not designed to replace currency or bartering exchanges but to enhance the connection, understanding and appreciation for people in your community and all the ways we can help each other. Get to know your neighbours and help each other out. It begins by helping the TimeBank grow… Continue reading ‘Get Involved and Help Grow the TimeBank’ »
Every group requires leadership which includes people like you offering time, talent and a terrific attitude. In order for you and your community to experience the best of TimeBanking each community needs their local leaders.