2025 Small Business of the Year Award - Clearolie Jones Clara’s Catering
Clearolie Jones
In 2016, Clearolie Jones took a bold leap of faith to start Clara’s Catering. Hailing from humble beginnings and driven by her passion for Southern Creole American cuisine, Ms. Jones’ invites people to experience her culinary delights. She frequently hosts tasting events where guests can sample the entire menu and take home generous portions of leftovers. Clara’s Catering is a family-run business, employing family members and others she has met along the way. Some staff members have been with her for ten years, a testament to her high standards and exceptional leadership.
After 19 years of working with people with special needs, Ms. Jones decided to pursue her love for cooking. She began working the line at Glenwoodie Golf Club during the golf season, eventually becoming one of their preferred caterers. Her journey with Glenwoodie Golf Club began when she catered for an event there, impressing the coordinator with her diverse menu. Ms. Jones’ commitment to excellence means she never cuts corners, always striving to keep customers happy and provide top-quality services for special events. She firmly believes that word-of-mouth is the best form of advertising.
Ms. Jones’ Community Commitment include
Seniors' Dinners: Clearolie provides hot meals to seniors every Monday. Leftover food is donated to a local food pantry in Glenwood, benefiting the community’s seniors.
Local Lions Club: She donates her time and talent to the summer Rib Fest, seasoning the meat bought by the club. The event sells out every year.
Non-Profit Fundraisers: She donates linens and appetizers to organizations with ties to Glenwood.
Women's Shelter in Roseland: Clearolie has been assisting with the shelter since 2017.
