The University of Oregon's Service-Learning Program and College of Education will host a panel discussion, “The Gift Economy: A Model for Collaborative Community,” from noon to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, March 7, in room 220 of the HEDCO education building, 17th and Alder streets in Eugene.
The public is welcome to attend the free event.
The concept of a "gift economy" – the community exchange of goods, services and support with no expectation of a return – has long been a point of debate among anthropologists and economists.
The panel will feature four Eugenians who are living the lifestyle. There will be a question-and-answer session and table-group discussions of the growing movement following the panelists' presentations.
“We are excited to host this fun event,” said Deanna Chappell-Belcher, director of the Service-Learning Program. “It's a chance for on-campus folks and community members to come together and share ideas and resources of all kinds.
"The Service-Learning Program's motto is ‘Get Out!’ since we always encourage students to venture off campus and in to the community. This is an exciting chance to say to community members, 'Come On!' and welcome a meeting of the minds (and hearts) here at HEDCO.”
The panelists:
- Benjamin Crandall, founder, CommonGoods Network and co-author of Kindista social network
- Tree Bressen, group facilitator and teacher, Treegroup
- Kim Krichbaum, workshop leader, Eugene Gift Circle
- Robert Stopa, Food Bus
Snacks and refreshments will be provided, but attendees are encouraged to bring a bag lunch. Contact Josna Lauryan with questions or to RSVP.
- from the UO College of Education