In addition to initiating, coordinating, and supporting ongoing philanthropic programs in the areas of education and arts & culture, The American Turkish Society successfully mobilizes American and Turkish communities in response to natural disasters and humanitarian needs in Turkey.

The American Turkish Society was instrumental in raising over $4 million during the last major earthquake in Turkey in August 1999, through its Earthquake Relief Fund and close partnership with TEGV (Education Volunteers Foundation of Turkey) and other NGOs in Turkey.