MMF's new multi-purpose office facility will be officially opened in Chiang Rai on December 8, 2007.

The new office building which features extensive office and conference space will provide a permanent base for MMF. The building is a significant step forward for the organisation which was officially launched as a foundation in Thailand on July 1 2005.

Until now, MMF has been based in a rented office space in the centre of Chiang Rai. However, following a period of substantial growth during the past two years the organization has expanded beyond the capacity of the current facility (pictured below). MMF director Scott Coats said the new office was strategically located in north-east corner of Chiang Rai city, in area surrounded by hilltribe villages.

"Many of our staff still live in these villages and work with the people in these areas. The new office is away from the centre of the city but we believe it is now located in an area that typifies the vision and ethos of our organization. We already have partnerships and relationships with the communities that surround our office."

Mr Coats said having a permanent base would also be more cost effective for donors and partners. "We are now no longer spending money on renting a facility. That means all money can be invested directly into projects and the work we are doing. We believe this will create a greater sense of efficiency."

The design of the new office is also in line with the surroundings and includes a blend of traditional Thai architecture with a functional open plan approach inside. Mr Coats said MMF would lease the conference and meeting room facilities to help off set the cost of new office space.

"We are seeing this as a celebration and an exciting period within MMF. This has been a real team effort to get the new building ready. The staff have given up a day a week for the last couple of months so we can achieve this. We are thankful to everyone who has contributed to the foundation taking this step and we plan to celebrate with them at the official opening on December 8."