Ottawa Timebank

(The first timebanking project launched by Timebanking Canada in association with Timebanking UK.)



Our Mission: To bring people together and strengthen communities, one hour at a time.

The Ottawa Timebank, the first of a network of emerging community timebanks, will initially cater to the Ottawa community at large. Gradually, timebanks will emerge in the different communities in Ottawa and surrounding regions. The members will be associated with the timebank in their community. They will also have the option to exchange services with members in multiple timebanks. We encourage members to actively share services with one another. This will bring people together and help members make new acquaintances and friendships. People reaching out to others will also help reduce the isolation and loneliness of people.


Members of all ages (18+) from different walks of life are welcome to join the Timebanks.

Click the 'Join' button above and register as a Member.

The member registration involves a few steps. The process is user-friendly, allowing self-registration. Or you may seek help from a Member Coordinator—Click on 'Contact Us' menu option. 

Once your registration is completed and approved, you will be able to browse the service 'offers' and service 'requests' from other members. You may also create your 'offers' and 'requests.' Timebanking is all about serving the community on a 'give' and 'take' basis. For one 'hour' of time spent with someone, you'll earn one 'time credit.' In turn, you may spend your 'time credit(s)' to receive help or some skill from another member--whenever you need it. Or you may donate your time credits to another member or to the community pot.  This is not a voluntary service. 


In Timebanking, 'Time' is the currency of exchange and everyone's time is equal.

One hour = one hour, irrespective of qualification, income, position, or social status.  That creates a level playing field for all. 

We believe that everyone has something to give regardless of their age, ability, situation, or background. If you receive help, you, too, can give a service or skill in exchange. 'Giving' and 'receiving' on a reciprocal basis promote mutual respect and dignity. 

Our mission is to build positive social relationships and healthy communities.

If you have questions or need help, please use the 'Contact Us' link above. A member Coordinator will reach out to you.

Here is an example of how people come closer and enjoy getting together in groups. Timebanking encourages community building.
People enjoying get-together at a potluck lunch
Time Bank community enjoying a group lunch.

This is a description
Inter-generational bonding at a dance.
Here's an example of inter-generational bonding at a community dance.

Learning and teaching art and craft
Community group teaching and learning art and craft together.

The Five Core Values of Timebanking

Edgar S. Cahn, the fATHER OF TIMEBANKING, HAS GIVEN THESE FIVE CORE VALUES THAT STAND AT THE HEART OF SUCCESSFUL TIMEBANKING AND HAVE STOOD THE TEST OF TIME.
  • Asset – Every one of us has something of value to share with someone else.
  • Redefining Work – There are some forms of work that money will not easily pay for, like building strong families, revitalizing neighborhoods, making democracy work, and advancing social justice. Time credits were designed to reward, recognize and honor that work.
  • Reciprocity – The question: “How can I help you?” needs to change so we ask: “Will you help someone too?” Paying it forward ensures that, together, we help each other build the world we all will live in.
  • Community/Social Networks – Helping each other, we reweave communities of support, strength & trust. Community is built by sinking roots, building trust, and creating networks.
  • Respect – The heart and soul of democracy lies in respect for others. We strive to respect where people are in the moment, not where we hope they will be at some future point.

Timebanking: "It's where you get paid back when you pay it forward." ... Kathy Sipple.



Timebanking Skills and Needs
(alphabetically sorted)


·       bookkeeping... help to create a budget

·       car repairs... simple jobs that can be done at home

·       car washing... inside and out

·       children: babysitting or after-school care

·       children: tutoring with homework

·       clean your house

·       clean your yard

·       computer: teaching skills – help out with any computer challenge

·       cooking a dish or a meal for you

·       cooking... teach you how to cook simple, healthy meals

·       craftwork – pottery – stone painting – other?

·       delivering leaflets

·       driving people to appointments, shopping, or errands

·       fitness coach

·       gardening help

·       hair: cut and style your hair at home

·       holistic services: give a massage - a facial – foot massage

·       holistic services: give a reflexology or reiki treatment

·       home repairs – help around the house

·       house sitting – plant care – pet care

·       moving help – packing, loading, or transport

·       music... teaching piano, guitar, other?

·       nails: do your nails – manicure – pedicure

·       pet care: dog walking – dog training – cat sitting

·       senior care: visiting/companionship – caregiving – meal prep

·       sewing – dressmaking – clothes repair

·       Tai Chi training

·       teaching languages – English – French – other?

·       translation – English to other languages.

·       typing letters, and documents, or help with filling out a form

·       yoga teacher... personal training


** If the service you would like to offer is not on this list, let us know and we'll include it.
** For services that require expenses or parts to buy, the giver and the receiver of the service should agree that the expenses will be provided by the receiver of the service. The time involved in providing the service is what is freely given.