What began as two Selma women discussing ways to give back to the community over a bridge game in the 1930s has grown into a predominant organization that continually gives back to area charities.

Mary Susan Crovato, upcoming president of the Selma Charity League, said the organization has kept strong to their founding goal — to give back to the community.

“Not only do we give monetary donations to the community, but we also give our time to the community,” Crovato said during the league’s annual Spring Fling event.

In addition to hosting events like Chips for Charity, which donated its funds to several area non-profit organizations, Crovato said league members also volunteer their time at Park Place Nursing Home, the Salvation Army and mentor young girls in Dallas County Schools.

“We try and choose women who are outstanding community members and give back a majority of their time to Selma,” Crovato said. “You have to be passionate about this community.”

During their Spring Fling gathering, several members were recognized for their outstanding service to the league and Selma. Also, the event served as a welcome to new members.

“It’s basically in honor of the members who have completed their five years of service and the new provisional class that is coming in,” Crovato said.

Currently, there are 43 members in the Selma Charity League.

This is the one time each year charity members are able to get together as a group and enjoy each others company, Crovato added.

“It’s just a time for us all to come together and celebrate all the work we’ve done over the past year,” she said.