'TimeBanks' Sprouting Up In Metro Detroit

DETROIT (WWJ) - A growing number of locals are getting their unwanted chores done for free.  WWJ's Sandra McNeill reports it's part of the growing phenomenon called TimeBanks and they're cropping up in communities around metro Detroit.

Kim Hodge is the executive director of the Michigan Alliance of TimeBanks, she helped found the TimeBank in Lathrup Village and helps coordinate the 130 member service.

Here's how it works ... members offer their services for other members in their neighborhood, the time they spend can be exchanged for services from any member of the bank.

Hodge says she usually gives more than she receives but she has gotten plenty.

"I've had a massage, cooking,  yard work, I've had somebody to help decorate the inside of my house, I've had a sheet metal worker put a cap on my chimney. Someone cleaned out my refrigerator and I've learned Facebook," said Hodge.

Hodge says in some states folks are even getting some health care and dentistry through the time banks.

Hodge notes that one man, a physical therapist in Portland Maine, offers a certain number of hours each month in his practice to those members who are under-insured ...Hodge says anyone can start a time bank even in your own office.

There are budding time banks in Southfield, Ferndale, Royal Oak, parts of Detroit and Plymouth-Canton.

Click on here for more information on a Time Bank in your area, or for information on how to start your own.