Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Free Stuff Event

We tried a small-scale experiment on Sunday -- a Free Stuff Event at the UU Church in Rochester.

The concept was simple -- bring stuff you don't need anymore, like clothing in good condition, household goods or toys, and take what you need from the piles of others' unwanted items. It was the ultimate expression of "One person's trash is another person's treasure."

So how did it go? Well, we had some great stuff there. There were some brand-new brushed nickel table lamps with the tags still on them, a floor lamp still in the box, lots of books, some toys and games, kitchen items like Tupperware and margarita glasses, shoes, clothes, and much more.

There were snacks and drinks, and the people who attended had a chance to meet other Time Traders, chat, and make some connections in our community. Since COMMUNITY is really what Time Trader is all about, the event was a success.

At the end, all of the items were dropped off at Goodwill so everyone only took home the things they wanted and needed.

We'd like to do it again, but we need YOUR input. What would make you come out for an event like this? What would make you invite your friends (or better yet, bring them along)? What kinds of social and community events do you want to see that would motivate you to participate more actively in Time Trader? This community is only as strong as its members' relationships.

As Coordinator, it's my job to strengthen those relationships. But it is also YOUR job as a member of the group. Successful TimeBanks are often run by their members, some with a Coordinator who does marketing and community outreach. This is YOUR TimeBank. What do you want from it? If you want a specific feature, service or event, chances are someone else is looking for the same thing.

What can you do to help our TimeBank grow and continue to find new ways of serving its members?

Can you:
*help to plan events
*recruit someone who can perform services that are in high demand (like massage)
* help do orientations to bring new members in
*do a presentation about Time Trader at your church, community group, or to your friends
*come up with a creative idea to help that isn't listed here

Contact me at 287-2040 ext. 3022 and let's work together to find ways to strengthen our community and serve our members better.

It's up to YOU.

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