July 25, 2009 marks the 2nd annual running of the Tri for Thai triathlon for the benefit of Friends of Thai Daughters.

Friends of Thai Daughters, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization which seeks to empower at-risk girls and young women to acquire the education, the confidence and leadership skills to become leaders in the fight against exploitation.

Jane McBride and Patricia Zinkowski created Friends of Thai Daughters after a visit to northern Thailand in 2002. Upon learning about the horrors of child sex trafficking and forced labor, they decided they had to help.

By 2005 they created Baan Tantawan, or Sunflower House. Young, academically motivated girls, once accepted into Baan Tantawan, are given full scholarships to the Varee Chiang Mai High School. All expenses, including room and board are paid by Friends of Thai Daughters. An adult guardian lives around the clock at Baan Tantawan to provide security, stability and create a home life for these students. Most children come to Baan Tantawan orphaned and are from very poor backgrounds.

Once living at the Sunflower House, they have access to good food/nutrition, education including additional tutoring to bridge their learning gaps, and friendship. For most, this is the most stable home they've ever had.

In 2008, three girls graduated and became the first to enter University - a HUGE milestone and extraordinary achievement. In 2009, our fourth high school graduate was acccepted into Chiang Mai University.  Currently there are eight students living in Baan Tantawan and two living on campus at University.

Last year, Jane and Patty came up with the idea of creating a fun local event to help raise money and awareness of their project. "Friends" and family came from near and far. Not only did participants get to enjoy the race, but many made it an entire weekend and took in the Boothbay Region's many attractions.