Page 75 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2025

GIVING BACK
story by Cherie Ward photos courtesy of Duchess Club of Ocean Springs
Before the work begins, the Duchess Club of Ocean Springs begins with prayer—a simple, powerful reminder that charity is their purpose and community is their call.
And those four words, “Charity is our purpose,” define the Duchess Club’s mission, and every photo on its social media pages tells the story of that purpose in motion. From toys to teacher gifts, scholarships to Special Olympics volunteers, the all-female civic group keeps its focus close to home. Every dollar raised goes right back into the community, especially to support local children and families in need.
Founded more than half a century ago, the Duchess Club has become one of Ocean Springs’ quiet constants of compassion. Its members can be found organizing holiday drives, helping classrooms, funding scholarships, and
showing up wherever kindness is needed most.
For these women, charity isn’t just something they do—it’s
how they live. Their efforts remind us that generosity doesn’t have to be grand to make a difference. It just has to keep showing up, year after year.
Learn more or get involved by visiting the Duchess Club of Ocean Springs on Facebook.
Bacot Foundation of South Mississippi
Together We Are Making a Difference
www.bacotfoundation.org
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
December 2025 | 75