Shrine Associations are formed for fraternal purposes and are chartered by Shriners International by vote of the representatives at the annual Imperial Session. Any number of Shrine Centers may form a Shrine Association based on their geographic location by region. Shrine Associations can also be centered around Shrine Clubs and special interest groups. Associations allow individual Shrine Chapters to join for fun, fellowship, and camaraderie, and provide nobles an opportunity to share ideas with others during annual conventions and events approved by the Imperial Potentate. Some. Associations may also allow individual nobles to join, based on their special interests.