Dear valuable friends,

The Florida Turkish American Association (F.T.A.A) was successfully founded 40 years ago. Despite many efforts, our organization was not able to have its own place or venue since its inception and this is the main challenge that prevented FTAA from reaching its potential. Most of our meetings, events have been taking place at homes or the residential ‘club-house’s’ of our members. Arrangements were also made for gatherings to take place at various Community Centers with rental fees. In addition, each week we would have to carry our furniture or instruments from one address to another. Most importantly, we never had the chance to have social meetings under one roof that we could call our own. Over the years, the Founders and Board of Directors of the FTAA have felt the absence of a “Turkish House” and now have found this opportunity.

Two years ago, upon popular demand by our members, a group of friends came together with a strong desire and commitment to make our dream come true. In light of high amount of donations, we decided not to lease but to own our community center. As you know, we purchased the space located at 3020 NE 32nd Avenue. Suite 123, in Fort Lauderdale, FL which has a total square feet of 3,384 and within one of the most prestigious areas of the city.

Due to legal requirements, a new entity was established in 2008, and named Florida Turkish Center Foundation (FTCF). In order to minimize the monthly operating expenses of the Turkish Center, a mortgage in the amount of USD 350,000 was financed at 4% interest by a group of five of our dear friends. In addition, USD 179,000 was paid for the interior construction and decoration of the center.

This property is not any person(s) own asset as it belongs to the FTCF. The Center is managed in cooperation between the FTCF Board of Trustees and FTAA. The five person finance group and Board of Trustees are all members of FTAA.

The monthly operating expenses of the Florida Turkish Center include the condo maintenance fee, the mortgage, electricity, heating/cooling, cleaning, Cable TV and Turkish TV, telephone and other needs which amount to USD 4,000.00. These expenses will decrease substantially upon settlement of the mortgage.

We are confident that you, our close friends and family, who believe in the mission of the Turkish Center, will support us. Your dedication and support is absolutely vital to keeping the Turkish Center operational forever.

As FTAA and FTCF, we are requesting that you kindly consider the following support: During the next 4 years, each family or person to donate less than $3 per day -- payable monthly ($83), 3 months ($250), bi-annually ($500), or yearly ($1000) so that we may be able to pay off our loan. We believe that we can easily cover our monthly expenses with the activities and the increasing number of members.

We believe that the philosophies of Ataturk have brought us together, as well as those principles which have helped in the founding of our modern country. We are very confident that you, our most valued friends, will help us handover this flag to the next generations.

Sincerely,

FTAA & FTCF

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