Nevertheless, at the very start of 1941, Maria Antonescu joined the board of "Regina Elisabeta" Society, a welfare organization chaired by Queen Helen. She also took over a new state-run charity, "Sprijinul" ("The Support"), which reputedly made her a contender in the conflict opposing her husband to the Guard, before the Legionary Rebellion of early 1941 brought the Guard's downfall. According to Spanish historian Francisco Veiga, her humanitarian effort was endorsed by the more conservative pro-Antonescu factions in reaction to Guardist projects such as "Ajutorul Legionar". "Sprijinul" ensured participation from Veturia Goga. They were also joined by the wife of World War I hero, General Constantin Prezan, and by Sanda Manuilă.