Glimpse into Creating a Legacy Beyond Giving Today
Dr. Metin Taşkın’s journey began in Kavak, a small town nestled in the hills of northern Türkiye’s city of Samsun. Growing up in a close-knit community, he was surrounded by the love of his family and the support of neighbors who saw promise in the young boy with a curious mind and a compassionate heart. It was this support that fueled his dream of becoming a doctor—a dream that would take him far from home, first to Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, and eventually to the United States.
After completing his medical education in Türkiye, Metin seized an opportunity to further his studies in the U.S., where he specialized in hematology. During his residency, he met Asuman. They were drawn to each other by their shared passion for helping others and a mutual respect for the sacrifices that had brought them to this point in their lives. Together, Metin and Asuman built a life in America, dedicating themselves to their professions and raising a family. But despite their success and the new life they had created, Metin never forgot his roots. He carried with him a deep desire to give back to the hometown that had nurtured his early ambitions.
As he advanced in his career, Metin began to think more seriously about how he could make a meaningful impact, both in Türkiye and in the U.S. Around this time, the couple was introduced to Turkish Philanthropy Funds and decided to establish a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) at TPF. This fund would allow them to support causes close to their hearts—such as libraries in Metin’s hometown of Kavak and educational and cultural programs in both Türkiye and the U.S. Through the DAF, they were able to direct funds to specific projects, ensuring that their contributions made a direct and tangible impact. TPF guided them along the way, connecting them with the right organizations and helping make their vision a reality.
As the years passed, Metin and Asuman continued to expand their philanthropic efforts. They became active members of the TPF community, working closely with the organization to identify new opportunities for giving. They found immense joy in knowing that their contributions were making a difference in the lives of others.
However, Metin and Asuman were also practical. They knew that one day they would no longer be there to personally oversee their charitable activities. To ensure that their legacy of giving would continue, they decided to include TPF in their estate planning. They worked with TPF to set up a planned giving arrangement, which would ensure that after they both passed away, a portion of their estate would be directed to their DAF. This would allow their son, and hopefully, one day their grandchildren, to carry on the work they had started, supporting the causes they cared about most.
The planned giving arrangement was a reflection of their enduring commitment to philanthropy. It gave them peace of mind, knowing that their legacy would live on, continuing to support the communities they loved.
Today, Dr. Metin Taşkın and Asuman Taşkın’s story serves as an inspiring example of how one can bridge the gap between two worlds through generosity and a commitment to making a difference. Through their Donor Advised Fund and planned giving, they have not only supported their hometown in Türkiye but have also contributed to the many causes in the U.S. Their legacy is one of compassion, vision, and a deep love for the communities that shaped their lives.
As Metin often says, “Our journey in life is not just about what we achieve, but about what we give back.” Through their thoughtful planning and dedication, Metin and Asuman have ensured that their journey of giving will continue for generations to come. We’re honored to be a part of their legacy and look forward to empowering our communities in the way the Taşkın family dreams of.