Lehigh Valley Community Exchange Aims to Revive Timebanking System

Residents of the Lehigh Valley are exploring the potential of a community exchange system known as timebanking, which allows individuals to trade services based on time rather than money. Kathy Perlow, a dedicated advocate for timebanking, believes that revitalizing this system can significantly benefit the local community, especially as it emerges from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Timebanking operates on the principle that every hour of service is valued equally, regardless of the nature of the task. Perlow recalls a successful local example from 2010, where a wedding was organized entirely through timebanking. The bride, a trained medical interpreter, exchanged her expertise for community support, demonstrating the system’s potential to foster cooperation and mutual aid.

Founded in 1999 as the Community Exchange, the Lehigh Valley timebank initially aimed to assist patients discharged from hospitals with services like housekeeping and meal preparation. Supported by the Lehigh Valley Health Network and funded by the Dorothy Rider Pool Health Care Trust, it evolved into a broader initiative for community support. Unfortunately, participation dwindled during the pandemic, according to Melissa Miranda, CEO of the Neighborhood Health Centers of the Lehigh Valley.

“There were challenges during COVID,” Miranda stated. “Before that, it was thriving.” Despite these setbacks, Perlow, who also serves on the national TimeBank board, remains optimistic about the program’s revival. She emphasizes the need for dedicated coordinators to manage and promote timebanking activities within the community.

Perlow’s passion for timebanking was inspired by her connection with Edgar S. Cahn, the founder of the modern timebanking concept, who advocated for what he called the “time dollar.” Cahn’s vision was to create a currency that values all labor equally, from manual work to professional services. This philosophy resonates with residents like Susan Schaffer, who participated in timebanking by reading to patients in exchange for computer assistance, underscoring the community’s reciprocal support.

The potential for timebanking to address social needs continues to attract interest. Perlow envisions integrating timebanking into community disaster preparedness, further solidifying connections among residents. Rick Daugherty, executive director of Lehigh Valley Active Life, highlighted a similar concept: a Shared Housing Resource and Exchange Program that allows older homeowners to offer space to individuals seeking housing in exchange for assistance with household chores.

While some critics, like retired economics professor Michael A. MacDowell, question the efficiency of timebanking in a broader economic context, proponents argue that it fosters essential community ties. “In a closed economy in a small area, it might indeed work,” MacDowell noted. “But as a way to engage in economic trade, it is probably ineffective.”

Despite differing opinions, timebanking has gained traction in various regions, including Pennsylvania and internationally in countries like Spain and Malaysia. Krista Wyatt, executive director of Timebanks.org, reported that communities worldwide are successfully implementing timebanking systems to enhance social cohesion.

“TimeBanks are proving that when we value every person and their time, we create a world that works for all of us,” Wyatt stated. She provided examples of parents trading childcare hours and seniors receiving visits and assistance, highlighting the program’s ability to combat isolation and encourage community building.

Perlow believes that renewed interest in timebanking could lead to greater community involvement. “If we would all embrace timebanking as a way to strengthen our community,” she said, “more people would get involved.” She is currently seeking support to re-establish local timebanking efforts and is eager to reach out to residents.

To learn more about timebanking in the Lehigh Valley or to get involved, contact Kathy Perlow at [email protected].

For further information on timebanking initiatives, visit Timebanks.org.