The Grove Senior Apartments in Garden Grove marked an historic occasion today: during its new Second Harvest food distribution program, several residents (including some who volunteer to distribute food to other residents) negotiated their first “service exchange,”
offering one hour of their time performing one service in exchange for receiving an hour of another service. How does it work? Here’s a stripped down explanation:
When Mary volunteers for Second Harvest, she receives Service Exchange “dollars:” one dollar equals one hour of time. She can spend those “dollars” for any service that other residents offer. One hour of Mary’s time is equal to one hour of John’s
time–no exceptions! It’s as simple as that.
Today, Mr. Grey arranged to receive one hour of computer assistance from Mr. Leduc. Mr. Leduc will receive a cooked meal from Mrs. Joudah. Mrs. Joudah will also receive computer instruction from Mr. Leduc. Other exchanges will include translation services as well as running errands. With this system of service exchange, residents can receive services that they may not be able to afford to purchase.
We’ll keep you informed as our Service Exchange progresses!
Garden Grove resident volunteers received two service exchange “dollars” to package food for their neighbors.
Our first service exchanges occurred with these residents who pose with WSH manager Linda!
Contributed by Robin Hart
