cc can:
be any size, from the smallest of neighborhood networks to full-scale city systems;
be local, regional, global or entirely virtual;
work with coin and paper, with accounts and checks, with debit cards and smart cards;
operate with or without computer support;
exist in different forms in the same community, simultaneously and without conflict;
support any chosen community good, such as health care, community-supported agriculture, emergency relief and environmental repair programs, research and development;
work with microcredit programs to build the context for microlending by creating a loyal market, and can also be used to generate core loan funds in conventional money.
cc strengthen self reliance and autonomy by reducing dependency on external finance, external markets and cash crops. Using cc will reduce global resource depletion.
The continuing and accelerating series of crises brought about by the runaway effects of globalization call for tools and strategies that draw communities together and empower them to face the challenges.
Wherever community exists, its members are connected in various forms of network. Communities persist when those networks support ongoing and mutually useful exchange between the members. Community currencies will enable and empower people to thrive together.
Since there can be many virtual currencies, there will be many.