How Spiritual Practice Revolutionized Homeless Youth Support

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.

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How Spiritual Practice Transformed Homeless Youth Support