Helen Dew

A founding member of Living Economies, I was drawn to this ethical and enterprising organisation through my commitment to ecological and social justice.

My earlier experience as a trading and committee member of the Wairarapa Green Dollar Exchange had heightened my awareness of the potential of complementary currencies for environmental, social and economic well-being.

In 2002 I joined the Living Economies Board and became the NZ distributor of Margrit Kennedy’s book Interest and Inflation Free Money the first of a growing list of titles now available through Living Economies. (Click here to view.)

My attendance at international 'Money' conferences in Germany (2003) and New York (2004) enabled effective networking with others committed to researching and promoting regional and local currency projects appropriate for varying purposes.

My contribution as a volunteer to the Wairarapa community through involvement with complementary currencies was recognised in 2004, when I received an award from the New Zealand Orangi Kaupapa Trust.

I enjoy networking, both on a local and global scale. Living in a small country town provides me with ample opportunities for cooperating with various grass-roots organisations, keeps me grounded and gives me a sense of belonging.

I find balance in my life through my pursuit of a lifelong passion for gardening. Our ¼ acre property provides us with most of our fruit and vegetables, year round.