Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Neighborhood Service Exchange?
The Neighborhood Service Exchange (NSE) is a grassroots volunteer time bank program for people of all ages and abilities, especially those who live in or work in Washington County. The NSE builds and strengthens communities through neighbor-to-neighbor relationships. It is a program of Community Thread and began in 1998. The NSE connects people to one another to meet needs and to increase the quality of their lives.
It is a program based on good faith, trust, cooperation and reciprocity. The NSE is modeled after the "time dollar" concept, which was created by Edgar Cahn, President of Time Banks USA in Washington, D.C. (formerly known as Time Dolllar USA)
How does it work?
NSE members receive one hour of credit for each hour of service they provide. In return, they are eligible to receive a service from another member. A special computer database is used to track the hours earned and those that are spent. Service credits can be saved, donated to another member or given back to the Neighborhood Service Exchange to help those who cannot offer a service.
Who can join the NSE?
Membership is voluntary and is open to people of all ages and abilities. Individuals, families and groups may participate in the NSE. All members (or a representative from the family or group) must attend an orientation session before beginning service. Sessions are scheduled by appointment. Application forms need to be completed before beginning service. There is an annual membership fee.
Is the Neighborhood Service Exchange just for seniors?
No. Membership is open to all age groups (note: age restrictions may apply with some services). Seniors are one of the target groups to receive service, in addition to people with disabilities and families.
What types of service are offered?
Services include computer assistance, cooking, friendly visiting, gardening, housekeeping, minor auto repair, minor home repair, sewing and mending, tutoring, yardwork, and many others. The types of services offered depend on the skills, talents and abilities of the NSE members.
Are my service credits taxable?
The IRS has ruled that service credits or time dollars are not taxable. No money is exchanged in return for services offered. The NSE involved "informal exchange of similar services on a noncommercial basis" like what one would do for a family member or a friend. Time is the measurement of market value, not cash. All services are equal. The focus of the program is on creating neighborhood connections and strengthening the community.
Can I give and receive services?
Yes. All members are eligible to both and receive services from other NSE members. The NSE encourages members to participate as fully as they wish. This helps build the network of neighbor-to-neighbor relationships with reciprocity arrangements. Everyone has a skill to share.
Can I donate my credits?
Yes. There are some members who are unable to provide a service due to illness or disability. Individual and group members can donate their earned credits to another NSE member. This helps to maintain the balance of accounts.
How can private businesses get involved?
They can help by publicizing the program in their organization's newsletters or on their bulletin boards for their employees to get involved. Also, businesses can donate needed materials for special projects or contribute financially to the NSE.
What are some of the things the Neighborhood Service Exchange does not do?
The program does not pay people to perform voluntary service to members. It cannot handle emergency or crisis situations. Service credits have no cash value. They are used only within the NSE system. The NSE does not compete with or replace existing local community resources. It helps increase members' awareness of the resources that are available and helps fill in the gaps with neighborhood self-reliance.
(adapted from TimeBanks USA)
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