President's Message
Dear Valued Visitors;
Founded in 1895, Darülaceze was established not merely as an institution, but as the conscience of society, the institutional embodiment of compassion, and a concrete expression of respect for human dignity.
Today, this ancient legacy—now aligned with the “Century of Türkiye” vision—has entered a new era of advancement by bringing together the sense of justice of the past with the modern social service capacity of today.
As Darülaceze, we draw strength from our historical roots while resolutely working to build a sustainable and innovative social living model in line with the requirements of our time. This journey is not merely a managerial duty; it is a representation of public responsibility, social compassion, and commitment to human dignity.
Where Are We Today?
Darülaceze provides hundreds of residents with not only care, but also a safe, meaningful, social, and dignified life at two important locations in Istanbul — the Okmeydanı and Arnavutköy campuses.
Our service approach focuses on the physical, mental, and social integrity of each individual, ranging from rehabilitation and healthcare to social life and psychosocial support. Through our modern care blocks, day-service programs, volunteer initiatives, and child units, we operate a multi-layered social living model.
One of Darülaceze’s most distinctive features is that it continues its services without receiving a direct allocation from the state budget, relying instead on the support of its donors and the culture of social solidarity. This structure encourages our institution to be more transparent, more accountable, and more productive.
A Look to the Future within the “Century of Türkiye” Vision
Within the framework of the Century of Türkiye, Darülaceze’s goal is not only to maintain its existing services, but also to present a model that will set an example in the field of social services in our country.
This model represents a new-generation social living infrastructure that brings together a sustainable, modern, qualified, social, and visionary structure, uniting care, education, volunteering, and social integration under one roof.
Our Arnavutköy Campus is the tangible embodiment of this vision.
With its independent living areas, advanced care units, child center, youth dormitories, culture and arts venues, and extensive recreational spaces, a service model unique in Türkiye has been established.
Darülaceze is no longer merely a legacy of the past; it is a pioneering institution building the social conscience infrastructure of the “Century of Türkiye.”
The Role of Society and a Call for Solidarity
The sustainability of this major transformation is only possible through the contribution of society.
Since its establishment, Darülaceze has been a legacy of goodwill sustained by volunteering, solidarity, and a culture of donations. Today, this same strength remains the fundamental pillar of our journey into the future.
Every volunteer, every donor, and every visitor is a part of this story.
You are not only providing support; you are adding hope, warmth, and value to people’s lives.
We invite you to join the Darülaceze family and become a link in this chain of compassion through your contribution, interest, and efforts.
Respectfully,
Esra Ceceli İslam
PRESIDENT OF DARÜLACEZE