Healing comes in many forms, but what truly matters is the willingness to embrace it. It might be losing yourself in the rhythm of yarn and needles, finding calm in each stitch. Or it might be discovering a haven where you simply breathe, away from the interruptions of daily life—a place to set your own pace and find your own peace. Sometimes, it’s within the walls of a library, surrounded by books that transport you to different worlds, allowing you to momentarily leave your worries behind and dive into stories that inspire.
At the Füsun Sayek Community Center, the path to healing is yours to choose, as long as you have the will to begin. Surrounded by greenery by the river in Arsuz, The Füsun Sayek Community Center offers a safe space for all ages to find solace and peace, even in the wake of the earthquake.
What began as a tribute to Füsun Sayek, a pioneering Turkish doctor, and former president of the Turkish Medical Association, has blossomed into a vibrant institution. Born from a memorial event by family and friends, a week-long celebration of her legacy evolved quickly into a center for cultural events, workshops, sports activities and health screenings for the local community. Today, the Füsun Sayek Foundation is dedicated to supporting children’s education, women empowerment, and public health initiatives in Arsuz.
During the earthquake, Fusun Sayek Foundation’s original building collapsed. With TPF’s support, a new community center was built for women and children who needed safe spaces to heal, and rebuild their lives. Today, the center is alive with daily visitors, finding comfort in the simple yet powerful activities offered - whether it's painting, reading, or sewing, there is something for everyone to hold onto, something that allows them to process their grief and find hope again.
For the past year, the doors of the Arsuz Community Center have remained open,all thanks to you. It’s your support and kindness that enables TPF and the Füsun Sayek Association to heal our communities, one person at a time.