Sustaining Connections

Danielle Hoffman ’10 uses global experience for Carlisle project

by Bill Sulon

February 9, 2010

Environmental-studies major Danielle Hoffman ’10 holds “currency” used by Findhorn, Scotland, residents. She hopes to establish a similar program, along with a time-banking system, in Carlisle.

Danielle Hoffman ’10 has already established a solid foundation, at the macro and micro levels, for a career in building sustainable communities.

In December, the environmental-studies major from Honesdale, Pa., participated in the United Nations’ climate-change conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, a macro event of global proportions. Hoffman and 14 fellow students interviewed U.N. delegates, scientists and members of other youth delegations from around the world on “common but differentiated responsibilities,” the idea that developed countries have historically higher emission levels than undeveloped countries and therefore have a responsibility to decrease emissions more rapidly.

“This semester, our group will focus on compiling our video and audio footage to create some pieces that will communicate both our experiences and the severe implications of climate change,” Hoffman said.

Hoffman also is focusing on the microeconomics of Carlisle. She is working on an independent-research project aimed at establishing time-banking and currency programs in and around the borough.

“Time banking essentially is person-to-person currency,” Hoffman said. “People can use hours to gain credits. Let’s say I agree to wash windows downtown. If I accrue two hours, I can use them toward the purchase of two hours of something else—for knitting lessons, baby-sitting services, anything. Time banking creates a sub-economy in the sense that it connects buyers and sellers who otherwise might not have ever met.”

Such a system makes sense any time, but especially during a recession, she added.

Hoffman also plans to approach the Downtown Carlisle Association and Chamber of Commerce with the idea of establishing “A Complementary Currency: Carlisle.” Residents would buy the currency at a central location with real money. Participating businesses would sell their products and services to individuals using the currency.

“It’s a good way to educate people about the importance of the local economy and local products,” said Hoffman, noting that similar programs were established in Ithaca, N.Y., Madison, Wis., Toronto, Canada, and Findhorn, Scotland. “It’s also a fun way to get people involved and interested in local neighbors and friends.”

Hoffman came up with the idea for the currency program while studying in Scotland during the spring 2008 semester. Time banking already works closer to home, in neighboring Shippensburg, and can be a success in Carlisle, she said.

Hoffman already has reached out to representatives of the United Way of Carlisle to discuss establishing a time-banking system. She will propose the currency program to the Carlisle community in the spring.

After graduation, Hoffman hopes to land a job in the sustainability field. She has lived in the Center for Sustainable Living (Treehouse) since her sophomore year. She believes that the Treehouse lifestyle, the trip to Copenhagen, the independent-research project and other experiences at Dickinson have given her the tools to take on new challenges after graduation.

“The opportunities Dickinson College has offered me have been incredible,” Hoffman said. “Every day I work and learn with engaged and dedicated students and faculty, gaining invaluable professional experience. I am interested in community-building, mobilization and grassroots action, and my Dickinson career has provided me with knowledge and tools that will be most helpful in my future endeavors.”