New to time banking? Start here.
Time banking is a community-building movement that began in the 1980s with the work of Edgar Cahn, who envisioned a more human-centered economy—one where everyone’s time and abilities are valued equally. Since then, time banks have taken root across the United States and around the world, creating thousands of local networks built on mutual support.
At its core, time banking is simple: members exchange services using time instead of money. One hour of help earns one time credit, which can then be spent on receiving help from someone else. Every skill counts equally, whether it’s driving a neighbor to an appointment, tutoring, household repairs, or offering companionship. This creates a system where everyone can contribute and everyone can benefit.
What makes time banking powerful is not just the exchange of services, but the connections it builds. It strengthens communities by bringing together people who might never otherwise meet, fostering trust, generosity, and shared purpose. It helps members discover new skills, find meaningful ways to give back, and receive support when they need it.
Time banking invites people to imagine a community where value isn’t measured by income, but by our willingness to help one another—and then gives them a practical, achievable way to build that kind of community every day.
Time banking is as easy as 1, 2, 3!
Create a member profile on Time and Talents
Create a member profile on Time and Talents (TnT) that lists the skills, services, or contributions you’re willing to offer. TnT is our portal for time exchanges. Your orientation will take you through what you need to know to use TnT. You get 2 Time Dollars to spend as a new member!
Exchange time
Exchange time by helping another member with a task and earning time credits, or spend credits by requesting help yourself.
Stay engaged!
Stay active in the community by recording your hours, responding to requests, and participating in events or orientations as needed. Stay in touch by subscribing to our monthly newsletter and following us on social media!
Our Mission
To empower people across the Phoenixville area to create a stronger, more connected community where everyone’s time, talents, and contributions uplift one another and help all of us thrive.
Our Vision
A vibrant community where people come together to share their time, talents, and resources, creating opportunities for everyone to grow, connect, and thrive.
Our Values
Asset
Every person has worth. Each of us brings unique strengths that enrich our shared community.
Community
Community grows from connection, not bloodlines. It is built by caring, showing up, and working together.
Respect
Everyone deserves respect, kindness, and love.
Work
We give our time and talents to strengthen the community—building trust, belonging, and shared purpose.
Reciprocity
We lift one another up. By sharing what we can and receiving what we need, we create a circle of mutual support.
"We have what we need if we use what we have."
Edgar Cahn
From Small Seeds to Big Community:
The benefits of time banking
Share what you love
Offer the skills and talents that bring you joy, not only the ones tied to your job. Your unique strengths make a difference here.
Learn, share, and explore
Whether trying a new hobby, developing a skill, or discovering hidden talents, time banking offers low-pressure opportunities for growth.
Support without financial barriers
Members receive help when they need it—rides, repairs, tutoring, companionship, and more—without spending money. Time banking makes practical support accessible to everyone.
Get help when you need it
Rides, small repairs, errands, tech help, friendly check-ins—support from your neighbors are all within reach, members just need to ask.
Boost well-being and purpose
Helping others fosters connection and confidence. Many members find new purpose, reduced isolation, and a deeper sense of belonging.
Value that includes everyone
Every hour of service is worth one hour of credit, no matter the task. This creates an inclusive space where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can contribute and participate equally.
Build a resilient community
Time banks help communities respond to challenges by enabling coordinated, neighbor-to-neighbor support. This creates a strong, adaptable local network ready to look out for one another.
Give and receive with confidence
The system encourages balance. Members can offer their skills and also feel comfortable asking for assistance, knowing the exchange is based on reciprocity and shared goodwill.
Build real community connections
Time banking brings neighbors together. By exchanging time and talents, members form meaningful relationships and strengthen the fabric of the Phoenixville area.