Barters Island-based nonprofit Friends of Thai Daughters is thrilled to announce the winners of their Sunflower Dream Trip Sweepstakes! After weeks of incredible generosity and enthusiasm from supporters across the country, Katie Ryan and Margaret "Mugsy" Schwab of Westminster, Colorado, have been selected to receive a $25,000 Dream Trip Anywhere in the World, curated by Charlotte James Travel Design — or the cash equivalent, their choice.

Katie, a retired teacher, and Mugsy, a retired airline industry professional, live with their rescue dog Birdie. When they're not hiking around their mountain cabin or biking, the pair are avid travelers, most recently cruising the Great Lakes.

"We were on the road coming back from an appointment when we got the call that we won," Katie said. "It was like, 'Woah!' You are talking to two people who never win anything, not so much as a piece of gum. It was so thrilling. Unbelievable!"

FTD Supporters

Katie and Mugsy discovered FTD three years ago at a pickleball fundraiser in Colorado and have been staunch supporters ever since. "We had no idea what FTD was before that, and when we met them it hit us that what they're doing, starting a cause so powerful out of love — it's awesome," Katie said.

Mugsy, who grew up in Puerto Rico, said the organization's mission resonates deeply with her own experience. "I felt like I was on the outside," she said. "I think it's wonderful that FTD has built a place where these girls feel like they fit in and have room to grow."

Making Plans

The couple already has plans for their winnings: a long-awaited trip to Thailand. "We'd love to be able to visit the facilities FTD has built there and to see first-hand the work that the organization does," Katie said. "We hope to work with Charlotte James Travel to put a great trip together. Part of the fun is in the planning and having something to look forward to."

As for the rest of the prize, the couple plans to keep giving back. "We're going to find ways to use the money to give back, particularly to FTD," they said. "And maybe give some to Birdie for his favorite dog food."

"Congratulations to Katie and Mugsy — we couldn't think of a more deserving pair of supporters to win this dream trip," said FTD co-founders Jane McBride and Patty Zinkowski. "Their story is a wonderful reminder of why we do this work, and we can't wait to see where their adventure takes them."

A heartfelt thank you also goes out to everyone who entered and supported the competition. Since 100% of ticket sales went directly to FTD, every entry will make a real, immediate difference to at-risk girls in Northern Thailand.

“Our supporters are the reason we can keep our doors open,” said McBride. “Your generosity funds safe housing, quality education and long-term mentorship for young women who might otherwise have no path forward. This sweepstakes was our way of saying thank you and inviting even more people into our mission. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who entered, shared and believed in what we’re building–and we’re already looking forward to the next opportunity to celebrate with this incredible community.”