MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – How can you use your time to get your needs met, contribute to the community, make new friends and learn about a cool “new” alternative to money?

Come find out at the Middletown Methodist Church, 15851 Armstrong St., from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 21.

Time banking communities have formed around the world. Members connect in practical ways – people helping people – and get necessary services by using time as a currency, exchanging time instead of cash.

Every hour is valued the same, regardless of the service performed. Time banking forms connections that strengthen a community and its local economy.

The Time Bank of Thrive Lake County began about four years ago, and has grown to 454 members with more than 12,000 hours exchanged.

The Middletown event will feature fun and interactive activities designed to help you get started, learn more, and keep you going with time banking. The formal session will be followed by a yummy potluck and social.

Everyone is welcome – from curious community resident to seasoned time banker.

The Special Events group also will meet after the formal session. This group is made up of all volunteers who are involved with any Lake County community event who would like to explore getting hours from the time bank for their services.

Special Events volunteers include vendors, musicians, technical support, event planners, and site staff.

Time Bank membership is open to any Lake County resident, business, or organization.

For more information about Time Bank of Thrive Lake County, visit http://timebanklakeco.org , email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone 707-413-0220.