He finds a new job through the Currency Exchange Network with Project for Pride in Living, restoring rundown housing in the Phillips neighborhood of central Minneapolis. Instead of earning cash only, Jack earns a combination of cash and service credits. The service credits stretch Jack's buying power when he redeems them at participating businesses. The community benefits both from Jack's work and from his increased buying power. The Currency Exchange Network is a win-win proposition for all participants.
Businesses gain new customers and enhance their profitability.
Citizens find productive work and increase their buying power. And, most importantly, communities address economic and social problems through better use of currently underutilized human and industrial resources. The Currency Exchange Network modifies several standard business tools and practices. A strategic business alliance , like those in which consumers earn and spend frequent-flier miles, is modified to include labor, community and government organizations. A buying club is modified to offer discounts based upon economic need for those who perform community service.