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Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
Members share experiences...
Survey #1:
1. Name/age/neighborhood? (Names will be changed for privacy on blog project)
Suzanne, age 58, North Madison
2. How did you find out about the TB? Why did you decide to join?
Read in Northside News that it was beginning. It seemed like an interesting project and a good way to meet neighbors.
3. What services do you typically provide? Have you had any meaningful experiences providing TB services?
Garden planning, writing stories, recruiting members by tabling, was on Northside Kitchen Cabinet, helped at the International Conference.
4. What services have you received through the TB? Have you received help you might not have found otherwise?
I had my leaves raked, my gutters cleaned, learned how to change oil in my lawn mower, had jumps built for dog agility course, went to a craft class, two dog parades, two plant exchanges.
I met a lot of neighbors that I would not have met. I could have found the services, but I saved money this way.
5. Do you have any concerns about privacy or safety related to your Timebank membership?
I have not had a concern so far. I have chosen to post my neighborhood and not my address.
6. Please share any other comments that are important or special to you about the Timebank.
It has been a great experience, except for those who do not take it very seriously and do not respond quickly and sometimes not at all. It would be great to see everyone in my neighborhood signed up.
Survey #2:
1. Name/age/neighborhood? (Names will be changed for privacy on blog project)
Jen, age 53, Middleton
2. How did you find out about the TB? Why did you decide to join?
found out when a coordinator came to our group and explain timebank
I joined because of the neighborhood nature of the group. The fact that people help people and needs are met and services given that would not even be known about if not for the connectiveness of the Timebank internet structure. I was relatively new to the Madison area but feel now that I have met tons of wonderful people and have built up a support community between that of the bartering nature of the group. I also love that my one hour of whatever I do is equal to another's one hour even if they, in my opinion, have so much more to offer. The idea of equality of work offered is wonderful!
3. What services do you typically provide? Have you had any meaningful experiences providing TB services?
I offer transportation, computer buddy, visits, cleaning, dog doodoo clean-up and repair information and help with group activities. I have had meaningful experiences with many of the people I have meant. The experiences range from one wonderful conversation to an ongoing level of caring for an individual I work for.
4. What services have you received through the TB? Have you received help you might not have found otherwise?
Yes I have received amazing healing which I would never have connected with otherwise. I have also had massage, interactions with differently abled folks, help with my dog's barking.
Yes I would say all of my experiences have been meaningful. Even if there was a problem I feel that the people on timebank are the type that will work to resolve an issue...which I recently did. Others that I have meant on timebank I care about greatly. One woman I clean house for every has become a friend and I have a good time with her.
5. Do you have any concerns about privacy or safety related to your Timebank membership?
No concerns about privacy or safety. There are background checks done and I always have the ability to screen the people I may want help from or give help to. by screen I just mean talk to or check out their personal info.
6. Please share any other comments that are important or special to you about the Timebank.
timebank has become an important part of my life. It is one aspect where I can turn to for help or to meet people or offer some help. It has helped to make me feel connected to the Madison community and to people in general. I absolutely love the concepts of the organization and plan to become more involved in the organizational activities.
1. Name/age/neighborhood? (Names will be changed for privacy on blog project)
Suzanne, age 58, North Madison
2. How did you find out about the TB? Why did you decide to join?
Read in Northside News that it was beginning. It seemed like an interesting project and a good way to meet neighbors.
3. What services do you typically provide? Have you had any meaningful experiences providing TB services?
Garden planning, writing stories, recruiting members by tabling, was on Northside Kitchen Cabinet, helped at the International Conference.
4. What services have you received through the TB? Have you received help you might not have found otherwise?
I had my leaves raked, my gutters cleaned, learned how to change oil in my lawn mower, had jumps built for dog agility course, went to a craft class, two dog parades, two plant exchanges.
I met a lot of neighbors that I would not have met. I could have found the services, but I saved money this way.
5. Do you have any concerns about privacy or safety related to your Timebank membership?
I have not had a concern so far. I have chosen to post my neighborhood and not my address.
6. Please share any other comments that are important or special to you about the Timebank.
It has been a great experience, except for those who do not take it very seriously and do not respond quickly and sometimes not at all. It would be great to see everyone in my neighborhood signed up.
Survey #2:
1. Name/age/neighborhood? (Names will be changed for privacy on blog project)
Jen, age 53, Middleton
2. How did you find out about the TB? Why did you decide to join?
found out when a coordinator came to our group and explain timebank
I joined because of the neighborhood nature of the group. The fact that people help people and needs are met and services given that would not even be known about if not for the connectiveness of the Timebank internet structure. I was relatively new to the Madison area but feel now that I have met tons of wonderful people and have built up a support community between that of the bartering nature of the group. I also love that my one hour of whatever I do is equal to another's one hour even if they, in my opinion, have so much more to offer. The idea of equality of work offered is wonderful!
3. What services do you typically provide? Have you had any meaningful experiences providing TB services?
I offer transportation, computer buddy, visits, cleaning, dog doodoo clean-up and repair information and help with group activities. I have had meaningful experiences with many of the people I have meant. The experiences range from one wonderful conversation to an ongoing level of caring for an individual I work for.
4. What services have you received through the TB? Have you received help you might not have found otherwise?
Yes I have received amazing healing which I would never have connected with otherwise. I have also had massage, interactions with differently abled folks, help with my dog's barking.
Yes I would say all of my experiences have been meaningful. Even if there was a problem I feel that the people on timebank are the type that will work to resolve an issue...which I recently did. Others that I have meant on timebank I care about greatly. One woman I clean house for every has become a friend and I have a good time with her.
5. Do you have any concerns about privacy or safety related to your Timebank membership?
No concerns about privacy or safety. There are background checks done and I always have the ability to screen the people I may want help from or give help to. by screen I just mean talk to or check out their personal info.
6. Please share any other comments that are important or special to you about the Timebank.
timebank has become an important part of my life. It is one aspect where I can turn to for help or to meet people or offer some help. It has helped to make me feel connected to the Madison community and to people in general. I absolutely love the concepts of the organization and plan to become more involved in the organizational activities.
Example Case: A Child's Participation in the Timebank
My 12 year old daughter, Talia*, has been in the Timebank since she was 10.
She's earning timedollars every week walking someone's dog. My wife, Barbara*, went with to meet the owner, and always accompanies Talia for her dog walks.
She earned timedollars by giving a 5 year old the opportunity to spend time with the horse she's leasing. We were with Talia, and of course the 5 year old's mom was there as well.
Talia is spending timedollars on Deb* giving her rides to the stable to spend time with her horse. Deb has a horse at the same place so we got to know Deb before we started to do this. Everyone benefits, as Deb's horse really needs another horse around to go on the trails.
Talia has visited with a veterinarian to learn more about animals. Barbara took her to the cafe so the two of them could visit with Jeff.
Talia's earned some for 'office work' for Alliance for Animals, a group she's been volunteering with for a couple years so we know the people involved.
There's some examples off the top of my head of exchanges she's done. I guess what I'm saying here is that the bottom line is that there's always both parental awareness of potential exchange, and parental involvement with the exchange. It's great though, as an example, that we know Deb and have the trust that Talia if fine riding with her to the barn without us.
For folks in the 'disability system', typically a third party gets together with the first exchange or two with a new person until the trust and comfort level is there.
Thanks to the coordinator who sent me this example!
(*names changed to protect privacy)
She's earning timedollars every week walking someone's dog. My wife, Barbara*, went with to meet the owner, and always accompanies Talia for her dog walks.
She earned timedollars by giving a 5 year old the opportunity to spend time with the horse she's leasing. We were with Talia, and of course the 5 year old's mom was there as well.
Talia is spending timedollars on Deb* giving her rides to the stable to spend time with her horse. Deb has a horse at the same place so we got to know Deb before we started to do this. Everyone benefits, as Deb's horse really needs another horse around to go on the trails.
Talia has visited with a veterinarian to learn more about animals. Barbara took her to the cafe so the two of them could visit with Jeff.
Talia's earned some for 'office work' for Alliance for Animals, a group she's been volunteering with for a couple years so we know the people involved.
There's some examples off the top of my head of exchanges she's done. I guess what I'm saying here is that the bottom line is that there's always both parental awareness of potential exchange, and parental involvement with the exchange. It's great though, as an example, that we know Deb and have the trust that Talia if fine riding with her to the barn without us.
For folks in the 'disability system', typically a third party gets together with the first exchange or two with a new person until the trust and comfort level is there.
Thanks to the coordinator who sent me this example!
(*names changed to protect privacy)
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Access, Disability and the Digital Divide
Access and the Digital Divide:
Access is a key issue for many online communities. In a phenomenon that scholars call the "digital divide", the "have nots" are limited in their access to digital communication. People may not have access to a home computer, and many people lack the digital literacy skills to make use of the internet even if they do have physical access.
The Dane County Timebank takes special care to make the community accessible to everyone. If a prospective member does not have internet access, they are assigned an online partner.
When I first signed up for the Timebank, I indicated that I would be willing to serve as an online partner. I was recently assigned an offline partner, but I have called her several times and I only spoken with her answering machine so far. I'm learning that it's not a perfect system by any means, but I'm hopeful that we will eventually get in touch and I will be able to help her post offers and requests and find services that match her needs.
Disability:
In 2008, Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced that $55,000 would be distributed to the Timebank as part of a disibility initiative. This money was used to hire a coordinator who would assist people with developmental disabilities in participating in the Timebank.
In my personal experience, this coordinator set up a meeting for me with another Timebank member. He explained a little bit about this person's special needs before the meeting, and then helped to facilitate our introduction. The coordinator thought we would be a good match, and he was right! This person has been meeting with me weekly and I have taught him T'ai Chi, self defense, and complementary and alternative medicine techniques that have helped him to feel more confident and happy. It has been one of my most rewarding experiences through the Timebank, because every week I see him standing up straighter, making more eye contact, and smiling and laughing more. Last Thursday he actually said to me, "Nooo! I'm not used to smiling so much!" I know he would not be able to afford these services if it were not for the Timebank, and I also know that his friends through the Timebank are some of the most supportive people in his life. As for me, I've learned a lot from him, and he helps me to smile more too! I am moved by the empowerment model that Timebank offers to people with developmental disabilites-- they are not treated like victims, they are given opportunities to help other people and seek out services that appeal to their own interests. As with any Timebank member, "one=one". Their hour is worth exactly the same as anyone else's.
Access is a key issue for many online communities. In a phenomenon that scholars call the "digital divide", the "have nots" are limited in their access to digital communication. People may not have access to a home computer, and many people lack the digital literacy skills to make use of the internet even if they do have physical access.
The Dane County Timebank takes special care to make the community accessible to everyone. If a prospective member does not have internet access, they are assigned an online partner.
When I first signed up for the Timebank, I indicated that I would be willing to serve as an online partner. I was recently assigned an offline partner, but I have called her several times and I only spoken with her answering machine so far. I'm learning that it's not a perfect system by any means, but I'm hopeful that we will eventually get in touch and I will be able to help her post offers and requests and find services that match her needs.
Disability:
In 2008, Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced that $55,000 would be distributed to the Timebank as part of a disibility initiative. This money was used to hire a coordinator who would assist people with developmental disabilities in participating in the Timebank.
In my personal experience, this coordinator set up a meeting for me with another Timebank member. He explained a little bit about this person's special needs before the meeting, and then helped to facilitate our introduction. The coordinator thought we would be a good match, and he was right! This person has been meeting with me weekly and I have taught him T'ai Chi, self defense, and complementary and alternative medicine techniques that have helped him to feel more confident and happy. It has been one of my most rewarding experiences through the Timebank, because every week I see him standing up straighter, making more eye contact, and smiling and laughing more. Last Thursday he actually said to me, "Nooo! I'm not used to smiling so much!" I know he would not be able to afford these services if it were not for the Timebank, and I also know that his friends through the Timebank are some of the most supportive people in his life. As for me, I've learned a lot from him, and he helps me to smile more too! I am moved by the empowerment model that Timebank offers to people with developmental disabilites-- they are not treated like victims, they are given opportunities to help other people and seek out services that appeal to their own interests. As with any Timebank member, "one=one". Their hour is worth exactly the same as anyone else's.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Structure and Modes of Control
What keeps the Dane County Timebank running smoothly?
1. Structure
Paid Part-time Coordinators
Director (runs site)
Asst. Director and Youth Court Coordinator
Neighbor-to-neighbor/Community outreach coordinator
All paid, part-time positions.
Can see everyone's information.
Train other coordinators.
Community coordinators
15-20 people trained as coordinators.
Do outreach to help Timebank grow.
Paid in Timedollars.
Have access to accounts.
2. Modes of Control
Rules and Regulations
New members sign an agreement. If they don't follow the terms of that agreement, a coordinator will meet with them to clarify what happened and what the rules are. They have the power to take someone out of the Timebank, but never have.
Pressure and Norms
New members meet face-to-face in an interview with a coordinator, ensuring that they understand the rules and giving a face to the community. As members provide services to one another, they feel a sense of responsibility to the community. Social events and "Kitchen Cabinet" events also help to decrease anonymity.
Safety Screening
New members are given a basic background check. If they have recent felonies or violence on their record, they are "red flagged" and might work with a probation officer and have a different level of participation. Members they work with would be notified of their status. Members who work with vulnerable populations such as the elderly or people with disabilities might have a higher level background check from outside agencies.
1. Structure
Paid Part-time Coordinators
Director (runs site)
Asst. Director and Youth Court Coordinator
Neighbor-to-neighbor/Community outreach coordinator
All paid, part-time positions.
Can see everyone's information.
Train other coordinators.
Community coordinators
15-20 people trained as coordinators.
Do outreach to help Timebank grow.
Paid in Timedollars.
Have access to accounts.
2. Modes of Control
Rules and Regulations
New members sign an agreement. If they don't follow the terms of that agreement, a coordinator will meet with them to clarify what happened and what the rules are. They have the power to take someone out of the Timebank, but never have.
Pressure and Norms
New members meet face-to-face in an interview with a coordinator, ensuring that they understand the rules and giving a face to the community. As members provide services to one another, they feel a sense of responsibility to the community. Social events and "Kitchen Cabinet" events also help to decrease anonymity.
Safety Screening
New members are given a basic background check. If they have recent felonies or violence on their record, they are "red flagged" and might work with a probation officer and have a different level of participation. Members they work with would be notified of their status. Members who work with vulnerable populations such as the elderly or people with disabilities might have a higher level background check from outside agencies.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Privacy?
I can easily find the phone number, e-mail address, and home address of almost any other Dane County Timebank member. They can also access that information about me, except that I listed my work address instead of my home address because that is where I meet with Timebank members.
Timebank members can always view each others’ offers and requests. Under “Complementary Therapies”, members’ requests sometimes include personal information such as their physical or mental health issues.
Personally, none of this really bothered me.
Then, about two weeks after I had started my membership with Timebank, I got a message from a coordinator who was interested in one of my offers. After describing his availability he added,
“Also, it's great to see your listings of so many awesome offers Ali, thanks! (I get notice of all new ads). Spanish speaking partner.....Javier* comes to mind (a bit older than you....but young in my eyes!), and Melinda* (don't know her, but fairly active TB member). Otherwise, you can do a search for Spanish speakers on the site by doing 'advanced search' under member directory and clicking the 'Spanish' button and see who pops up.”
I had not realized how actively the coordinators were monitoring my activity on the site! At first, it made me feel a little uncomfortable at first to know that I was being watched. Still, part of his job description is to “help members make meaningful connections” and I did end up getting in touch with Javier*, as he suggested. It was a great match! Also, I felt comforted to know that the coordinators ensure that members use the Timebank responsibly. That would not be the last time that a coordinator connected me with another Timebank member.
(*name changed to protect privacy)
Timebank members can always view each others’ offers and requests. Under “Complementary Therapies”, members’ requests sometimes include personal information such as their physical or mental health issues.
Personally, none of this really bothered me.
Then, about two weeks after I had started my membership with Timebank, I got a message from a coordinator who was interested in one of my offers. After describing his availability he added,
“Also, it's great to see your listings of so many awesome offers Ali, thanks! (I get notice of all new ads). Spanish speaking partner.....Javier* comes to mind (a bit older than you....but young in my eyes!), and Melinda* (don't know her, but fairly active TB member). Otherwise, you can do a search for Spanish speakers on the site by doing 'advanced search' under member directory and clicking the 'Spanish' button and see who pops up.”
I had not realized how actively the coordinators were monitoring my activity on the site! At first, it made me feel a little uncomfortable at first to know that I was being watched. Still, part of his job description is to “help members make meaningful connections” and I did end up getting in touch with Javier*, as he suggested. It was a great match! Also, I felt comforted to know that the coordinators ensure that members use the Timebank responsibly. That would not be the last time that a coordinator connected me with another Timebank member.
(*name changed to protect privacy)
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