Timebanking on Mercer Island Set to Launch Sept. 27

Mercer Island Youth & Family Services and the Transition Initiative Mercer Island (TIMI) announced they are launching a Timebank for Mercer Island at a Sept. 27 event at the Community and Events Center.

According to organizers, timebanking is a reciprocal service exchange that uses units of time as currency, a system that includes everyone and gives equal credit to everyone's contributions where every hour of service is considered of equal value.

MIYFS Director Cindy Goodwin said timebanks are local movements that strengthen community ties, create more sustainable ways of life and builds a buffer for slowed economic growth and climate change. Timebanking is rich with social and economic benefits and residents, neighbors and friends are encouraged to trade their skills for those of others.

"Using local skills saves fuel, reduces transporation costs, avoids traffic and helps preserve our environment," she said. "Timebanks can step in, stretch dollars, and help bridge lean economic times by harnessing the "wealth" that already exists close to home."

For more information or those interested in becoming a "Timebanking Pioneer" member, a launch event is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 27th at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center.