Clare (1194-1253) was from a wealthy noble family. She was promised to Francis of Assisi. When St. Francis rejected marriage and his prosperous family, Clare chose to follow him. He helped her establish a community that was the beginning of the order of Poor Ladies who later became the Poor Clares.  They adhered to the Franciscan way of life, which includes humility and poverty (living only on alms). Included in the activities of the order were, and are, the making, embroidering and repairing of altar cloths and vestments.  For this reason Saint Clare of Assisi was chosen as the Patron saint of embroiderers.  [From RMR Officers’ Notebook, Sec. VI, Page RMR VI.D.1]

The Clare Award is given to a member who has given of herself continually in the Rocky Mountain Region above and beyond the normal dedication of our members. Her noteworthy performance can be in several aspects: administration, teaching, works that show excellence in the art of embroidery or any other way which brings positive attention to our region and EGA through skill and attitude.