So how is the formation of a Wairarapa Timebank progressing?

A Wairarapa Timebank is on its way.  A steering group has formed and is being hosted by Helen Dew from Living Economies.  Stephanie Young, also from Living Economies, Hayden McGrail from Wairarapa Green Dollar Exchange, Catherine Rossiter-Stead, Volunteer Co-ordinator, Pukaha Mt Bruce and Stuart McKay, Project Co-ordinator for the Mangatarere Restoration Society have been meeting on a monthly basis to work towards a Wairarapa Timebank launching at some time in 2013.  The steering group is largely in information mode, watching and learning from other timebanks from across the country.

Are you an organisation that needs to access more volunteers?

At the heart of timebanking is using skills in the community to help others.   The Steering Group is interested in hearing from organisations in the Wairarapa that utilise volunteers and are interested in how the formation of Wairarapa Timebank can help them.  Watch this space for further information or email us at Wairarapa.timebank@gmail.com.

What’s going on this month?

A number of organisations have indicated they’d welcome people helping their organisation through a Wairarapa Timebank.  While we’re getting set up, why not contact them direct?   Mangatarere Minders: Next busy bee is 7 February 2013 from 8.00 am to 11.00 am at their native planting site by Brooklyn Road Bridge.  Bring water, sunscreen and a light lunch. If weather is unreliable, call Seymour on 027 204 8992 or 06 379 6059 to check if the group is still meeting.   Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wairarapa: Big Brothers Big Sisters matches children and young people aged 6 through 18 with mentors in professionally supported one-to-one relationships. Contact Benita at benita.lawrence@bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz for further information.

Timebanking at the National Level

Timebanking across New Zealand took on new momentum in November when 15 Timebanks from across the country held a national hui. Stuart McKay attended on behalf of the Wairarapa Timebank.

“It was great to hear what others were doing, and benefit from their experience,” he said. “Timebanking brings out those in a community who like to get involved.  A Wairarapa Timebank has the potential to be a great resource to Wairarapa organisations who work closely with volunteers.”

Participants from the National Timebanking Hui

Topics covered included staging events for people to get involved in community activities, working with community organisations and fostering diverse memberships of community orientated people.  If you’re interested in finding out more about timebanking at the national level you can visit the Timebanking Aotearoa website at www.timebank.org.nz/about.