By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The Helena Belles organization will be holding an important informational meeting for new girls wishing to become 2017-18 Belles, as well as current Belles wishing to recommit.

The Helena Belles are comprised of girls ranging in grades 9-12 who are chosen to represent the city of Helena as a service organization. The name is derived from the traditional Southern Belles in the South.

Fifty-eight girls were chosen to represent the city of Helena as members of the 2016-2017 Helena Belles, and the information meeting regarding new applicants and returning belles will be Thursday, March 9 at 7 p.m. at the Helena Sports Complex.

Applications and recommitment forms will only be available at the information meeting.

Each new applicant must be a resident of Helena and will be required to submit the following:

–A new application packet.

–A recent picture no larger than 4-by-6.

–Copy of latest report card.

–Two recommendation forms including one from a teacher or coach and one community recommendation from a pastor, employer or other organization.

Those wishing to become Helena Belles must be of good character, have a pleasant personality, be enrolled in school, maintain good grades for their entire term and enjoy the civic responsibility of serving their city and local charities, according to the organization.

Belles are also required to complete a minimum of 30 hours of community service through the organization each year and are required to attend the annual Garden Party in which they will be presented to the city of Helena.

Forms must be submitted via email to hbmngt@gmail.com or mailed to Helena Belles, Recommendation, PO Box 85, Helena, AL 35080.

The deadline to submit new applications or recommit is March 18.

Belle interviews for new applicants will be held on Sunday, April 2, at the Helena Sports Complex. Interview times will be determined after all applications are received.

For more information on the Helena Belles, visit Helenabelles.com.