TACAWA Youth Chapter
Where Turkish-American youth in Washington grow, lead, and belong.
TACAWA Youth brings together young Turkish Americans across Washington State to celebrate our culture, build lasting friendships, and step into community leadership — together.
TACAWA Youth is the youth chapter of TACAWA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations and memberships are tax-deductible.
New here? Start with a community gathering.
Our monthly social gatherings are a welcoming way to meet the community — food, music, games, and real conversation, with no membership required for your first visit.
Reserve Your SpotHelp us grow the next generation of leaders.
As part of TACAWA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, every contribution to youth programming is tax-deductible.
About TACAWA Youth
A home away from home for the next generation.
TACAWA Youth is the youth chapter of the Turkish American Cultural Association of Washington, a nonprofit dedicated to guiding and enhancing awareness of Turkish culture, art, and heritage across the state. We exist so that young Turkish Americans — whether born here or newly arrived — have a place to stay connected to their roots while building friendships, skills, and confidence in their communities.
From cultural celebrations to leadership programs and community service, we create spaces where being Turkish and being from Washington aren't two separate identities — they're one story, and it's still being written.
Explore Our ProgramsJoin our WhatsApp
Stay connected with TACAWA Youth and hear about upcoming events, programs, and community updates.
Join WhatsAppPrograms & Activities
Seven ways to get involved.
Every program is built and run with youth input — these are the things our members told us mattered most.
UN Civic Project
Learn about the United Nations and explore youth-led civic engagement, global issues, and community action.
Tutoring Project
Peer tutoring and academic support that help students learn, grow, and succeed together.
Leadership Development
Workshops, mentorship, and real committee roles that help members build skills for college, career, and beyond.
Community Service
Volunteer projects across Washington State — from food drives to local partnerships with Turkish-owned businesses.
Civics Project with the City of Seattle
Learn how local government works and take part in civic engagement opportunities with the City of Seattle.
AI and Computer Science
Explore artificial intelligence, coding, and computer science through collaborative projects and hands-on learning.
Sports & Social
Pickup games, tournaments, and casual meetups that connect members across cities and campuses statewide.
Get Involved
Three ways to be part of it.
Same spirit as the wider TACAWA community — just built for our members in school and early career.
Become a Member
Join TACAWA Youth and get access to every event, workshop, and leadership opportunity we run statewide.
Join NowVolunteer
Help organize community gatherings, cultural festivals, and service projects alongside the wider TACAWA community.
Sign Up to VolunteerSupport Us
Donations to TACAWA fund scholarships, event costs, and travel support so every young member can take part.
Donate via TACAWAOur Goals
Where we're headed.
These goals are listed as simple milestones for the team.
Short-Term Goals
- Expand to 15+ schools across Washington
- Reach 50+ members
- Launch TACAWA Youth Committee website
- Grow our social media presence
- Organize 3+ community events
- Launch a free membership program
- Create leadership opportunities for everyone
- Develop a tutoring and academic support program
Long-Term Goals
- Create student-led clubs (AI, Robotics, Debate, etc.)
- Establish a mentorship program with Turkish professionals
- Host high school and college student panels
- Build partnerships with schools and youth organizations in Türkiye
- Partner with colleges, nonprofits, and Turkish-American professionals
These goals will be checked off as completed.
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendar.
FIRST EVENT TACAWA YOUTH MEETING AND Q AND A
Join us for TACAWA Youth's first meeting and Q&A, where youth, parents, and families can meet the community and learn more about getting involved.
Youth, parents, and families are welcome · Free admission · All of TACAWA is welcome to join
Photo Gallery
Moments from our community.
No photos yet.
They will be published soon.
Leadership
Meet the youth board.
TACAWA Youth operates under the umbrella of the TACAWA Board, currently led by President Işıl Hamdemir and Vice President Kerem Okyay. See the full parent board at tacawa.org/about.
FAQs
Good to know.
Who can join TACAWA Youth?
Any young person in Washington State connected to Turkish culture or heritage, roughly ages 8 to 18. Friends are always welcome too.
Is there a membership fee?
Signing up and attending community gatherings is free. Some special events may have a small cost to cover food or venue fees.
Is TACAWA Youth affiliated with TACAWA?
Yes — we're the official youth chapter of TACAWA, the Turkish American Cultural Association of Washington, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded to share and celebrate Turkish culture statewide.
How do I get involved beyond attending events?
Reach out through the sign-up form below — we're always looking for volunteers, committee members, and event organizers.
Join TACAWA Youth
Become a member.
Sign up below to get on our mailing list, hear about events first, and start meeting the community.
youth@tacawa.org
Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma & across Washington State
@tacawayouth_info on Instagram
Use our Microsoft Forms survey to register your interest in TACAWA Youth.
Open Survey