Organization
Tohum Autism Foundation(Tohum)
Turkey's leading autism-specific non-profit, founded in Istanbul in 2003. Tohum operates Turkey's first comprehensive ABA-based autism school, maintains a national autism information portal, and advocates for early diagnosis and evidence-based intervention nationwide.
About
Tohum Autism Foundation (Tohum Otizm Vakfı) was established on April 15, 2003 in Istanbul, Turkey. The word "tohum" means "seed" — a metaphor for the potential of every child with autism to flourish given the right conditions. Founded to address critical gaps in early diagnosis, evidence-based education, and public awareness about autism spectrum disorder in Turkey, Tohum has grown into the country's most recognized autism organization.
What They Do
Tohum operates Turkey's first comprehensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)-based autism school in Şişli, Istanbul, providing intensive individualized education for children with ASD. The foundation maintains the Tohum Autism Portal, a comprehensive Turkish-language resource for families, clinicians, and educators. Advocacy campaigns promote mandatory autism screening in public health systems and push for inclusive classroom support across Turkish schools. Professional training programs extend Tohum's evidence-based approach to therapists and educators nationwide.
Who They Serve
Tohum primarily serves children with autism spectrum disorder and their families, with particular emphasis on early intervention for children under six. Educational programs extend through adolescence and early adulthood. The foundation's policy and training work benefits the broader Turkish autism community well beyond Istanbul, reaching families in cities and rural areas through digital resources and outreach partnerships.
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