Reciprocity Foundation featured on America's Next Top Model

The issue of youth homelessness was highlighted on Tyra Banks' show, America's Next Top Model. The Reciprocity Foundation's Executive Director, Taz Tagore, was featured on the show to educate the models about the issue of homelessness. In addition, five Reciprocity program graduates were photographed in the weekly photo shoot alongside models and given a chance to interact behind the scenes.

Here are a few quotes from Reciprocity youth about their experience:

ISIS: "I thought the photo shoot was really great. As an artistic person, it was exciting to see that side of the business - photographers, creative directors, the whole process. And I have always been a huge fan of the show!"

ANGELIKA: "Jay was such a character and really nice. I enjoyed speaking to him. I pulled him aside and mentioned I was interested in auditioning for the next season, but was concerned a transgender girl could not apply. He was really honest with me and said if I was dedicated and really wanted this, I should absolutely apply."

You can watch the episode re-run this Sunday (check your local listings), or by purchasing it now on iTunes.

While America's Next Top Model might not have provided enough information about the root causes and possible solutions to homelessness, they did equip 8 million viewers with some basic information about the issue. You can keep the dialogue going by commenting on this blog, getting involved with Reciprocity or by volunteering at a local youth shelter or drop-in center.

Going Digital

The Reciprocity Foundation has finally entered the digital age. Not only have we created our first YouTube video posting, but we are working on developing a multimedia curriculum that can be delivered to homeless and foster care youth via DVD, Internet or PC. Have a look at this clip, one of the first videos we posted and please feel free to add your comments. We want to broadcast stories of hope and transformation - as our organization focuses on creating SUSTAINABLE solutions to homelessness.

Reciprocity's Annual Benefit

For anyone that still believes that homeless youth are helpless people seeking handouts, our inaugural fundraiser on November 21, 2007 proved them wrong. The event, hosted by ONE Restaurant in New York City, featured four current or formerly homeless youth who graduated from the Reciprocity Foundation's programs - all of whom shared inspirational stories of how they have (and continue to) transform their lives from a state of poverty to leadership and creativity. Sabine, Angelika, Lyssette and Yaas are bright, creative individuals with an extraordinary future ahead of them.

For more information on our program, visit our website at http://www.reciprocityfoundation.org/