Seems like something many places could adopt that would prove popular and useful.

The concept is simple: Members create an online profile that includes a list of the work they’ll do free, or “offers,” along with a list of services, or “requests,” they want in exchange. Dog walking, housesitting, guitar lessons, baby-sitting, help with Photoshop—almost any intangible is allowed. Members don’t exchange services directly with one another—they trade with the bank. So the person who picked up apples and artichokes for you at the farmers market isn’t waiting for you to return the favor.

http://www.latimes.com/features/lifestyle/la-ig-timebank27-2008jul27,0,292160.story