A huge thank you to everyone who turned out for Friends of Thai Daughters’ 20th Anniversary Sunflower Celebration in East Boothbay, on June 26, and made it such an unforgettable event. More than 100 guests came from near and far to meet the organization’s Thai Daughters and learn how FTD is eradicating child trafficking in many villages in northern Thailand.

Three generations of Thai Daughters attended the event and spoke very movingly about what FTD has meant to them and their families. And it’s safe to say that the highlight of the evening was their barnstorming performance of Elton John & Rina Sawayama's song "Chosen Family." The entire audience was blown away and there was not a dry eye in the house!

The celebratory program kicked off with a pre-event gathering at the Barters Island Community Center, followed by the Celebration on June 26 at FTD Board Director and East Boothbay resident Kate Horgan’s new barn. Kate was also inducted into the organization’s Sunflower Society in recognition of her years of outstanding support.

The goal of this year’s celebration was to highlight the achievements of the last two decades, which include 500 girls helped and the completion of two new residential Children’s Homes and Community Centers set among self-supporting organic farms. Co-founders and Barters Island residents Patricia Zinkowski and Jane McBride also shared their vision for sustaining the organization over the next 20 years through social enterprise and long term partnerships.

Guests enjoyed a delicious Asian-inspired buffet laid on by Liz Evans and staff of the East Boothbay General Store. Also on the menu was a Shuck Station oyster bar, with oysters donated by Lady Oyster of Phippsburg. There was a lavish spread of sushi given by Coastal Prime in Boothbay Harbor and abundant fresh shrimp from Massachusetts favorite, Captain Marden’s, plus post-party sandwiches donated by Ralph Smith and wine donated by Mark Osborn and FTD Board Member, Buzz Makarewicz.

The evening included an live auction of fabulous holiday prizes, MC’d by Christies’ auctioneer Helena Guindo, which prompted plenty of enthusiastic bidding in the room. Thanks also go to the Schacknow Family Foundation, to Country Coach Charters, to Villard Studios, Steve Berger, and all the hardworking volunteers for their kind donations and their great service.

FTD co-founder Jane McBride said: “We’d like to thank everyone who came and gave so generously, whether that was time, effort or gifts. Every contribution helps us give a safe, stable and enduring home for our Thai Daughters. We couldn't do it without you!”

To find out more about Friends of Thai Daughters, along with all their latest news, go to their website at friendsofthaidaughters.org