What is Local Currency?

Our market economy is dependent upon price, supply and demand; however a core economy, (the invisible one holding families and community together) is built through our valuing and depending upon one another. To create a sustainable community and world we need to change what people value.

Time banking is a system that supports individuals trading skills directly one with the other, without money being required.

Time Banks build grass roots and community networks where everyone's contribution is valued equally. Time banks are a powerful vehicle for social justice by including and engaging people who are shut out of the market economy.

"Time Credits empower any person to convert personal time into purchasing power - stretching limited cash dollars further and matching unused capacity with unmet demand. They reinforce reciprocity and trust. They reward civic engagement and acts of decency in a way that generates social capital, one hour at a time. They are bringing people together in communities all around the nation."

Edgar S. Cahn, CO-Founder of the Antioch School of Law
Professor at University of Miami School of Law
and President of the Time Dollar Institute