This program is a resident led community based project creating community one hour at a time. It is based on an exchange of work and different skills. Each person's hour of work is traded in equal exchange with the next person's, even though their talents and what they enjoy doing will vary. The goal of the project is to reduce social isolation, enhance access to basic education and services, and build community through human connections.
ASSETS - Understanding that every human being has the capacity to be a builder and contributor. Everyone has something of value that they can and want to contribute to others and build communities.
REDEFINING WORK - Acknowledging, recording and compensating the full range of socially useful contributions made by members of communities.
RECIPROCITY - Recognizing that we need each other.
SOCIAL CAPITAL - Building a network of friends, relationships, and community founded on trust, reciprocity, and civic engagement.
Self Development Workshops are designed to provide clients with the tools they need to improve their lives. Workshops include Money Smart Curriculum and financial literacy, nutrition classes, arts and crafts, junior gardener workshops for kids, and wellness classes.
El Barrio Beautification Project schedules monthly community clean-up days with the help of Dial-a-Trailer to rid the community of major trash and brush.
El Jardin de la Esperanza is an organic community garden started in 2004, which provides gardening opportunities, educational workshops, and strengthens social networks.
Time Dollar members volunteer in other HNS Programs. For example in 2006 Time Dollar members provided over 3,300 volunteer hours supporting the HNS Food Pantry and Bread Line. By volunteering in these programs, members are provided with structure, guidelines, and direction in how to move from passive receivers of services to active members who impact the community.