How Spiritual Practice Transformed Homeless Youth Support
Discover how Taz Tagore combined Buddhist practice with social entrepreneurship to create holistic programs for homeless youth through the Reciprocity Foundation.
How Spiritual Practice Revolutionized Homeless Youth Support
My Journey from Homeless Shelter Volunteer to Social Entrepreneur
At sixteen, I accidentally walked into a homeless shelter while searching for a student art show. Though unexpected, I felt compelled to stay. As the child of immigrant parents who fled to Canada, I recognized the same feelings of disconnection and uncertainty in the homeless youth I met that afternoon.
The Turning Point: Connecting Through Shared Struggles
- Personal awakening: My own suffering helped me empathize with homeless youth
- Decade of service: Spent 10+ years fundraising and advocating for homeless youth programs
- Growing frustration: Traditional shelters weren't addressing spiritual and emotional needs
The Birth of Holistic Homeless Youth Support
In my late twenties, Buddhist practice revealed a new approach:
- Contemplative practice became my foundation
- Social entrepreneurship emerged as my calling
- Reciprocity Foundation was co-founded in 2004 with Adam Bucko
Our Innovative Approach to Youth Homelessness
We developed programs addressing both:
- Inner needs: Yoga, meditation, spiritual retreats
- Outer needs: Education, housing, career development
Transformative Results: Youth Success Stories
Our holistic model has helped nearly 1,000 homeless youth:
- Isis King: First transgender contestant on America's Next Top Model
- Emmy-nominated filmmakers: 7 students created an award-winning documentary
- Media activists: Working with PBS and other major platforms
- Creative professionals: Successful designers, writers, and social activists
America's First Holistic Center for Homeless Youth
In 2011, we opened a groundbreaking facility offering:
- Spiritual healing through contemplative practices
- Practical skills for independent living
- Career pathways in creative fields
How You Can Support Our Mission
- Visit Reciprocity Foundation
- Watch our youth stories videos
- Donate $1, $5, or $10 to support our holistic center
About the Author
Taz Tagore is co-founder of Reciprocity Foundation, with 20+ years experience serving homeless youth across North America and India. Her work has been featured in major media outlets and Buddhist publications.