Turkish American Association of Central Ohio

About Turkish American Association of Central Ohio

For over five decades, the Turkish American Association has been the cultural heart of the Turkish American community in Central Ohio, headquartered in Dublin, OH. Founded in 1969 by Turkish professionals who recognized that their temporary stay had become a permanent home, TAACO emerged from a simple but powerful vision: to preserve Turkish traditions while building bridges with American neighbors. What began as a small group of dedicated community members has evolved into a multigenerational organization that now passes its mission to younger generations committed to maintaining cultural heritage. The association's story reflects the broader Turkish American experience in the region, with the community's roots extending back nearly seventy years to the mid-1950s when the first Turkish professionals arrived in Columbus. TAACO's approach to community building is deeply personal and inclusive, evidenced by programs like the Ladies Auxiliary, which organizes traditional Turkish dinners and social events, and the Friends of Turkey subsidiary, established specifically to educate non-Turkish community members about Turkish culture and history. The organization has consistently demonstrated compassion and solidarity, from organizing relief efforts following natural disasters to celebrating cultural milestones with the wider Central Ohio community. Through folk dancing groups, cultural performances, educational programs, and regular social gatherings, TAACO creates spaces where Turkish Americans of all ages can connect with their heritage while fostering genuine relationships with their American neighbors. The association embodies the values of cultural pride, community service, and cross-cultural understanding that have defined Turkish American life in Central Ohio for generations.

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