The Community Barter Network Comes to SJA
... What is It??

Imagine being able to do some things you love and getting some things you love or need in return.

Such things are possible when you are a part of the Community Barter Network (CBN). Housed under the umbrella of Pillsbury United Communities, CBN has been a grassroots level means of helping people meet needs through exchange of services as well as being an effective community builder since January 1996.

Here's how it works: A CBN participant provides a service. One hour of service earns one credit. In turn, participants user their earned credit toward receipt of a service or to purchase items at the Time Dollar Store at Pillsbury House. Volunteering at the Time Dollar Store can also earn you credits.

There are a wide range of services one can receive or offer through the Community Barter Network: yard work, snow shoveling, writing, tutoring, light handiwork, massage, transportation--the list goes on. According to the folks at CBN, everyone's got something worthwhile to offer.

As with any other transaction between consumer and contractor, it's essential for both to communicate clearly with one another when bartering, emphasizes Karen Eileen Engelen, CBN participant and orientation facilitator. Those who contract for services should also be prepared to work out who will provide materials, transportation, or other pertinent items.

Social interaction also plays an important role within the Community Barter Network. Potlucks and other events are scheduled throughout the year. CBN is also partnering with St. Joan of Arc to provide a series of diverse workshops for barter or a fee. The fees will support programs at Pillsbury United Communities. Professionals from CBN will offer classes at SJA on “Seated Yoga,” “Aging Gracefully for Men 40-60,” “Shoulder & Hand Massage,” “Hand Reflexology,” “Intro to Aromatherapy” and more.

Writer, speaker, consultant, administrative professional, Wendy Vickers, has been an active supporter and encourager of local musicians in the Twin Cities music community for several years. Her online newsletter on local coffeehouse performers and other music-related activities can be found on her website at www.wendyv.com .

To barter, individuals must join the Community Barter Network by attending an orientation. Those sessions are held twice each month, on the 2nd Tuesday or 3rd Wednesday of the month. For more information about CBN and the classes, call Carole at 612-824-0708 or send e-mail to barter@pobox.com.

Visit the Community Barter Network homepage at http://www.cbn.tcfreenet.org/.