In order to develop a model of social cohesion and multicultural coexistence by fostering participation in urban life,the Istanbul Bilgi University Center for Migration Research established Tarlabaşı Community Center in September 2006 in Beyoglu, Istanbul’s Tarlabaşı neighborhood. The Community Center, founded with support from the European Union, provides social and educational support activities to women, children and youth, who are the most vulnerable groups struggling with problems as a result of migration and poverty.

The Community Center continues its activities under Tarlabaşı Community Support Association, which was founded to sustain the Community Center. Local and international academics, researchers, students, representatives from public bodies, NGOs and media take interest into the activities of the Tarlabaşı Community Center. The Community Center aims to serve as a model for similar centers across Istanbul/Turkey.

The book titled Hayalden Gerçeğe: Tarlabaşı Toplum Merkezi Deneyimi (From Dream To Reality: Experience of Tarlabaşı Community Center), composed of articles by the staff and volunteers of the Center and the researchers, is published by Istanbul Bilgi University Press in 2010.