How the Five Core Values of Time Banking Shape Tampa Bay Time 

Everyone is an asset:  In our new parallel economy we value each member's and organizational partner's time equally. We know that all offer something of value--from neighborly favors and errands to skills and knowledge useful on the job. 

We redefine work: In our online database we reward "volunteering" and other unpaid work that the market economy often ignores: helping raise healthy children, building strong families, caring for elders, revitalizing neighborhoods, living sustainably, fostering social justice and protecting democracy.  The work of running our time bank is also rewarded in TBT Hours. In these ways we flow a local "currency," backed by work already done, into our local community. 

Reciprocity:  In Tampa Bay Time exchanging is a two-way street where requesting help is at least as important as offering it. By asking for help we create jobs for those who want to work while preserving equality in those relationships.  

Social Networks: On our own we are limited in what we can achieve, but time banking activates trust and mutual support. Participants quickly make friends, put down roots, and join in building a more resilient community that is capable of supporting us through good times and bad. In addition to having a new way to reward "volunteers" and make resources go further, partners can benefit from exchanges of expertise that dissolve internal silos and bridge external barriers. 

Respect: Alongside a stingy mainstream mindset of scarcity for most, we're building a generous new economy of abundance for all. Aware that friendly favors may outnumber professional work, we do our best, show gratitude for others' efforts, respond promptly when contacted, and mentor newcomers who are learning how our community of abundance works.

Folks not responding?  

• Come to TBT events. People are more responsive once they get to know you.

• ​If you'd like an event in your area, we'll work with you. Contact us.

• Give non-responsive members a call. That's why we list phone numbers.

• ​If they've moved, let us know. 

​New to INTER-TRADING?

• The hOurworld network connects 670+ time banks worldwide. 

• Inter-trades can be as easy as local ones.

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