| Dear Friends and Supporters of Turkish Philanthropy Funds, As the Goodwill Ambassador for TPF’s disaster relief cause, I would like to join Mithat Bereket, Jülide Ateş and Dr. Üner Kirdar in celebrating TPF’s 8th birthday during this month of February.In 1994, I set out with some of my fellow mountaineers on the journey of our lifetime, the establishment of AKUT (Arama Kurtarma Derneği). The stakes were high, because when it comes to saving someone’s life, there is no room for mistakes. However, through all the struggles and risks we faced, there were two things that kept us moving forward, the beauty of volunteering and philanthropy, two core values that represent TPF as well. When we imagined all of the obstacles and hardships, nothing could compare to the feeling when you save someone’s life. We tackled the challenges head on and formed the leading search and rescue organization in Turkey which has saved over 2,000 lives to date in Turkey and abroad. 
We are a dedicated, passionate group of volunteers, working solely for one purpose: to save lives. AKUT is proud to be one of TPF’s 43 partner organizations. Funds raised for disaster relief through TPF benefit organizations like us as well as other trusted, vetted organizations. TPF works tirelessly when it comes to disaster relief. Starting in Van during the 2011 earthquake, TPF was able to raise over $400,000 for the city of Van and it’s citizens. From this campaign, TPF granted AKUT $40,000 worth of search and rescue equipment. Additionally, this past year during the Soma mining disaster, TPF immediately joined arms to create a fund for the people of Soma, gathering over $140,000 for city’s rebuilding phase. TPF’s disaster campaigns grant 100% of all donations to the cause. As a mountaineer, I’ve climbed the highest mountains. I’ve trekked some of the most intense trails. But none of my climbs will ever be more difficult than being stuck under the rubble during a disaster, waiting to be rescued. We all must lend a hand to those in need. Turkish Philanthropy Funds is at the heart of it all, so let’s celebrate its birthday by supporting its mission. I stand with TPF for disaster relief. Will you join me? Make a tax-deductible donation today. Ali Nasuh Mahruki
Chairman of the Board of AKUT | 
