2022-2023 Community Impact Report

2022-2023 COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT

On behalf of Rock Entertainment Group (REG) — the Cleveland Cavaliers, Charge, Legion, Monsters, and Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse — we are proud to present the Community Impact Report for our 2022 – 2023 season.

One of the guiding principles of the organization is, WE ARE THE ‘THEY. ’ We are more than sports teams or a venue space – we see ourselves as community assets that work to strengthen and champion the organizations that are foundational to the future of Northeast Ohio. This report demonstrates our deep and enduring commitment to Northeast Ohio and celebrates the hard work of our dedicated Team Members, community partners and broader business partners. Thanks to their tireless efforts, we have moved forward important initiatives that will impact our community now and for years to come.

Over the past 30 years, the Cavaliers and REG have partnered with organizations and agencies at the local, regional and national levels to make vital investments in our community. Through this collaboration, we have contributed over $48 million to support local initiatives. Our team members have volunteered over 52k volunteer hours. We have also supported thousands of community organizations that provide enriching programs, create safe spaces, provide educational resources, address food security and promote youth wellness & recreation.

During the 2022 - 2023 season, our first Wine & Gold Gala successfully raised nearly $700,000 to benefit grantees of the Cavaliers Community Foundation. In addition, we completed 14 gymnasium refurbishments in our city’s recreation centers and started the first annual Hoops After Dark summer league with the City of Cleveland. We continue to develop creative, engaging and tailor-made programs to meet the needs of our Cleveland, Cuyahoga County and regional community head-on.

The collective accomplishments showcased on these pages are made possible by the passion and Love For The Land that we share with our civic and corporate partners. We extend our sincerest gratitude to every partnership that enabled the success of these community initiatives

Nic Barlage, CEO Cleveland Cavaliers, Rock Entertainment Group and Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse

2022-2023 Community Impact Report credits: Kristyn Hibbett, Susan Oguche, Cassie Sant

ROCK FAMILY of COMPANIES

Since Chairman Dan Gilbert acquired the Cavaliers franchise in 2005, the Rock Family of Companies (FOC) has made, and continues, to make strong and impactful investments in key civic and community initiatives in downtown Cleveland and throughout the region.

$1.6B INVESTED IN CLEVELAND

3.7M SQUARE FEET OF REAL ESTATE OWNED

Bedrock

2.6K+ FOC TEAM MEMBERS IN CLEVELAND

32+ ACRES OWNED BY ROCK FAMILY OF COMPANIES

Tower City Center

Bedrock is the commercial real estate arm of the FOC, specializing in innovative city-building strategies that reach far beyond the boundaries of bricks and mortar. They have established a significant presence in downtown Cleveland through property investments and improvements that are transforming the future growth and vitality of the city.

The May

Acquired by Bedrock in 2017, The May Company building has anchored Cleveland’s Public Square for more than100 years. The May Company department store opened its namesake building on Euclid Avenue in 1915 and operated there until 1993. It remained primarily vacant until Bedrock commenced an extensive historic restoration of the property, seeking to restore its most definitive features, such as the iconic pediment clock and terra cotta façade. The May opened to the public in August 2020 after undergoing a transformation into 307 units, including ROOST Apartment Hotel, a high design extended stay concept.

Tower City Center is becoming a hub for shopping, pop-up retail experiences, dining and entertainment, while also bringing an influx of local small- and minority- owned businesses to one of downtown Cleveland’s highly trafficked area. Bedrock has attracted a series of new retailers to Tower City and hosted dozens of free public events and activations, which significantly increased the number of visitors to Tower City and downtown Cleveland as a whole. These included:

▶ Free, family-friendly programs such as treasure hunts, back to school events, tea parties, a carnival and more

▶ Skylight Park, an activated park in the Skylight Concourse that offers seating, food, educational opportunities and entertainment

▶ Tower City for the Holidays, featuring weeks of activations including pop-up shops, events and activations, a holiday bar and indoor snowfall

▶ New shopping & dining options featuring vegan treats, gowns and dresses for special occasions, makeup and beatuy services, coffee, e-bikes, clothing and more

AND CUYAHOGA COUNTY

Cuyahoga Riverfront Master Plan

In September 2021, Bedrock and the City of Cleveland unveiled a comprehensive proposal to transform the Cuyahoga riverfront, connecting downtown and its residents and visitors through an approach prioritizing sustainability, equity and accessibility.

The strategy sets the stage for historic development of a 15-minute neighborhood and 18-hour city along the Cuyahoga River. The collaboration will conceptualize plans to maximize Tower City’s potential as a destination marketplace and anchor of the catalytic Cuyahoga Riverfront mixed-use neighborhood development project. It includes plans for new pedestrian pathways to the riverfront, public spaces and transit-oriented development.

In December 2022, Bedrock unveiled its comprehensive Cuyahoga Riverfront Master Plan, a transformational 35 acre transit-oriented development. The 20-year project anticipates the addition of housing, office, retail/commercial, hospitality and entertainment and more than 12 acres of public parks and public space with direct connections to the riverfront.

Linking shore to core, the plan connects Public Square to the riverfront through the creation of a new Tower City marketplace. Envisioned as an activated and unifying hub, this central spine will elevate the experience of daily commuters and spur opportunities for commerce and connection, with a focus on optimizing and enhancing transit and mobility.

“(This) announcement is a prime example of what can be accomplished when the private and public sectors align on equitable initiatives in support of all Clevelanders,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb “Bedrock’s vision for the redevelopment of the Cuyahoga Riverfront is one of the major projects that will help us realize Cleveland’s goal of becoming the 18-hour, 15-minute city we know it can be."

1. View of Huron Plaza, a covered outdoor market hall framing the riverfront

2. View from Carter Bridge of sculpted meandering riverwalk

3. Axonometric View of proposed Cuyahoga Riverfront Master Plan

Rocket Mortgage Rocket Community Fund

The Rocket Community Fund is a philanthropic arm of the FOC whose mission is to support inclusive, thriving and resilient communities by making data-driven investments in housing, employment and public life. In October 2021, the Rocket Community Fund, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, and Cleveland Foundation partnered to launch “Neighbor to Neighbor.” This flagship Rocket Community Fund program is helping to bridge Cleveland’s digital divide and supporting lasting housing stability by connecting residents to critical housing resources.

$670K IN FUNDING FOR NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR $3.2M IN FUNDING VIA PROGRAMS

The Rocket Mortgage Cleveland WebCenter is one of downtown's largest employers, with nearly 600 local team members. In 2016, Rocket Mortgage's offices in the historic Higbee Building underwent a $7 million renovation that incorporated many architectural elements that paid tribute to the building's role as an original Cleveland landmark.

"My administration has a vision of what Cleveland can become – a safer, healthier city with good jobs, great neighborhoods and opportunities for all Clevelanders. The Rocket Community Fund shares this vision and we applaud their efforts. Placing equity into action, and leading inclusive economic development and growth in our neighborhoods are key to our success."

— Cleveland Mayor, Justin M. Bibb

Paramore performed at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse Sunday, June 4, 2023 with special guests Bloc Party & Genesis Owusu as part of their North American Tour. Pictured here: Lead singer, Hayley Williams energizes the nearly sold-out Cleveland crowd and thanks fans for "growing with us."

ROCKET MORTGAGE

FieldHouse

Where Cleveland Turns Up!

Home to the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers, the AHL Cleveland Monsters and host to the best entertainment in the region, the transformed Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is the region’s premier sports and entertainment venue, welcoming close to two million guests to 180+ events each year.

Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse's world-class concerts and family shows make it one of the region's largest drivers of economic activity.

MAC Tournament

The FieldHouse has served as the host venue of the Men and Women's Mid-American Conference Basketball Tournament since 2000 and 2002 respectively. It is the second longest running neutral site men’s tournament in the nation.

$15M TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT

1M+ FANS HAVE ATTENDED IN THE PAST 22 YEARS

During the 22-23 season Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse was proud to host: ▶ Post Malone's Twelve Carat Tour Friday, Sept. 27, 2022 (above), ▶ Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band Wednesday, April 5, 2023 (left), ▶ John Mayer's Solo Tour Saturday, March 25, 2023 (below).

NCAA Women’s Basketball Final Four

– Projected economic impact: $22M

NCAA Division 1 Men’s Basketball First & Second Rounds

– Projected economic impact: $8M

1,347 PINTS OF BLOOD DONATED

3.6K+ LIVES HELPED SAVED

Blood Drives

Through partnership with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Guardians and Cleveland Clinic, the American Red Cross has hosted 14 blood drives at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse since March 2020.

MAC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament [ CONTRACTED THROUGH 2030 ]

2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction

– Projected economic impact: $50M

2025

2026

2030 2024

NCAA Division 1 Wrestling Championship

– Projected economic impact: $15M

Economic IMPACT

Since inception in 1994, the Gateway Sports and Entertainment complex, Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and Progressive Field, has been a catalyst for nearly $2 billion in completed, underway or funded retail, residential and hotel development in the Gateway District alone. The Gateway District, the city’s most visited neighborhood, welcomes over 5 million visitors each year.

$42M+

IN STATE AND LOCAL TAX REVENUES GENERATED IN 2022-2023 SEASON

Since inception in 1994, the venue has generated a total of over $800 million in tax revenue.

$48M+

IN GIVING

In the 20-plus years the team has been in downtown Cleveland, $48 million has been given to local community, civic and charitable organizations.

2.2K+ FULL AND PART-TIME JOBS PROVIDEDBY THE CAVS ORGANIZATION ANNUALLY

For the Love. FOR THE LAND.

Rock Entertainment Group, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Monsters, Cleveland Charge and Cavs Legion GC, are driven by an unrelenting commitment to make a meaningful impact in our community.

As we have done since 1994 when the Cavaliers moved to downtown Cleveland, we are committed to being a vital community asset and to creating an environment where all people feel fully accepted and able to show up as their whole selves. That’s the essence of “For the Love. For the Land.” It is an invitation, a rally cry, a call to action to embrace unity and come together in a common bond of love for each other and our city. Depicted with a diverse representation of hands on a basketball, the message speaks to the power of teamwork.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & Inclusion

Our Vision

The Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Monsters, Cleveland Charge, Cavs Legion GC and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse are recognized as the premier professional sports organization in delivering unparalleled sports and entertainment experiences fueled by a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture.

Our Definitions

▶ Diversity: the collective mixture of our fans, team members, properties, teams and partners characterized by our differences and our similarities.

▶ Inclusion: creating and fostering a trusting environment in which all are respected and engaged in the acceleration of our team priorities

▶ Social Impact: any significant or positive changes that solve or at least address social injustice and challenges.

▶ Equity: the outcome of equitable administration of organizational systems where everyone benefits, a culture of fairness and justice.

Three Team Alliance

The Cavs continued their participation in the three-team Cleveland sports alliance with the Browns and Guardians. Led by the Executive GMs and head coaches of each team, the Three Team Alliance works to develop sustainable and direct strategies to address social justice issues in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. The three pillars of focus are:

• Civic Engagement • Law Enforcement • Education

Community Nights & Engagement

The Cavs, Monsters and Charge all hosted 15+ community nights and engagements as part of an ongoing commitment to deliver an unparalleled sports and entertainment experience fueled by a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture.

Autism Awareness Night

2,115 JOBS PROVIDED BY THE CAVS ORGANIZATION

With World Autism Day on April 2 and World Autism Month in April, the Cleveland Cavaliers hosted their annual Autism Awareness Night. In partnership with Cleveland Clinic Children’s and KultureCity, the night had signage, sensory inclusion, and community partners that brought awareness to autism and autism care in the community throughout the night.

32% FULL-TIME TEAM MEMBERS OF COLOR

Black Heritage Celebration

The 19th annual BHC was an expanded recognition platform honoring and remembering Black history, as well as recognizing individuals from Cleveland and Northeast Ohio who have personally and positively impacted the Black community.

42.9% FULL- AND PART-TIME TEAM MEMBERS OF COLOR

Breast Cancer Awareness

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Cavs hosted their annual “Breast Cancer Awareness Night” with Cleveland Clinic and Susan G. Komen. The Cavaliers hosted triple positive breast cancer survivors, who were invited to meet players Kevin Love, Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert.

13.15% TOTAL ADDRESSABLE SPEND WITH DIVERSE SUPPLIERS

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Across the NBA, teams celebrated the memory and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the pastor, activist, and humanitarian who led the African American civil rights movement.

Lunar New Year

In tradition with the Lunar New Year Celebrations that are celebrated in many Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, the Cavs hosted a Lunar New Year game where fans were able to experience some of the traditional cultural elements.

Mental Health Awareness

In partnership with Cleveland Clinic, the Cleveland Cavaliers brought awareness and resources to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in support of mental health awareness in March. A range of community partners that specialize in mental wellness hosted information tables along the concourse as part of a Mental Health Awareness Night Resource Fair.

Native American & Indigenous Heritage

In collaboration with opponent, the Phoenix Suns, the Cavaliers celebrated their inaugural Native American Heritage Night to highlight the Cavaliers developing relationship with the Native Tribes of Ohio and celebrated the 22 Arizona Tribal Nations.

Noche Latina

The Cavs, Charge and Monsters united to celebrate Hispanic and Latin American culture with their Hispanic Heritage Nights. Each team highlighted the contributions of local Hispanic and Latin American leaders and organizations.

Pride

The Cavaliers, Monsters and Charge held their respective fourth, third and second annual Pride Nights in support of the LGBTQ+ community.

Women’s History Celebration

In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, the Cavaliers, Monsters and Charge hosted a Women’s History Celebration to highlight and celebrate the contributions and achievements of women to events in history and contemporary society.

Salute to Service

In November, the Cavaliers hosted their Salute to Service members and members of the Ohio National Guard presented the color guard. As the newest partner of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, the team honored Vietnam Veterans in a pre-game ceremony. During halftime they honored three families associated with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS).

NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE JUSTICE A REALITY FOR ALL"

Team Member Resource Groups

Asians Representing Inclusion, Strength, and Equity

ARISE's mission is to create a sense of community, offer all Team Members an inclusive environment to share their experiences and stories through the Asian American Pacific Islander lens and all others as well.

Black Employees Leading in Inclusion, Excellence, Vison, and Education

BELIEVE's mission is to develop, retain, and empower our community of Black employees and allies by providing professional and personal developmental opportunities through mentoring, workshops, and conferences BELIEVE can further support the career development of those involved in this group.

empowHER

Women of the Cavs, Monsters, Charge and Legion

EmpowHER's mission is to bring all women Team Members within the organization together by focusing on three main pillars, Professional Development, Women’s Health, and Workplace Culture. (EmpowHER is welcoming of transgender women, non-binary and gender expansive people).

Hispanics for Outreach, Leadership, and Advocacy

HOLA's mission is to advance the Hispanic community, through outreach, leadership and advocacy alongside Hispanic focused organizations in the Northeast Ohio area.

Jews for Unity, Inclusion, Connection and Education

JUICE's mission is to connect and engage with the Jewish community of Northeast Ohio, strive to make a more inclusive work environment, and become a relevant and trusted supporter of the community.

Parents, Allies and Caretakers Team

PACT's mission is to improve the organizational culture to be more supportive of the family dynamic in order to improve the life/work balance of parents/guardians/caretakers. PACT believes this would improve lifestyles for those Team Members leading to higher retention of those currently needing to take care of family members, as well as those who will need to in the future.

Pride in the Land

PRIDE in the Land's mission is to create a safe space and provide a platform for those that identify as LGBTQ+ and those that are allies. PRIDE will engage within our Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse family, and in the community, to provide support and resources for those that need them.

Service and Leadership United Through Excellence

SALUTE's mission is to create a culture of comradery, trust, service, selflessness and leadership found in the military for all Team Members at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and the greater community.

Ticket Donations

The Cavaliers organization provides the opportunity for thousands of children and families to attend home games at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse every year. The Cavaliers, Monsters and Charge donated over 28,000 tickets during the 2022-2023 season to organizations that include local charities, non-profits and schools. This also included a player ticket program where Cavs players personally purchase tickets and food vouchers to donate to non-profit organizations who specifically work with youth.

In addition, each month, the Cavs send giveaways, swag, auction, and raffle items to various organizations throughout Northeast Ohio to help them with their own fundraising efforts. The team fulfills approximately 5,000 requests each year.

28K TICKETS DONATED

Community IMPACT

The Cleveland Cavaliers are committed to supporting the Northeast Ohio community in ways that address vital needs, with an emphasis on education, food security, recreation and creating safe places to live, work, learn and play.

5K+ VOLUNTEER HOURS BY REG TEAM MEMBERS

$24M IN GRANTS MADE BY THE CAVALIERS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

$19M IN COMMUNITY GIFTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS

Court Refurbishment Project

The Cavs have partnered with the City of Cleveland to refurbish basketball courts in the city’s neighborhood resource and recreation centers and high school gyms in need of renovation in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

The first 14 courts have been refurbished and unveiled at: Cudell, Earle B. Turner, Sterling, Estabrook, Lonnie Burten, Clark, Thurgood Marshall, Glenville, Cory, Rhodes High School, Michael Zone, Kovacic, Collinwod and Gunning. The City of Cleveland and the Cavs host grand opening events that include Cavs Academy basketball clinics for children in the neighborhoods of these gyms. Following one month after each grand opening, the Cavs also hold a free basketball clinic, where participating kids receive free basketballs and jerseys.

Health and Wellness

With health and wellness being a pillar of the Cavaliers community efforts, players, coaches and staff are often found leading kids through basketball clinics, talking about living a healthy lifestyle and guiding kids through various physical activities. The program encourages physical fitness and well-balanced nutrition among elementary and middle school students across Northeast Ohio.

Gym Class Takeovers

presented by Medical Mutual Cavs Academy, the official youth basketball program of the Cleveland Cavaliers, offers Gym Class Takeovers for students in grades K – 6th throughout the school year, September to May. The program focuses on maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle. Cleveland Cavaliers Cavs Academy coaches and other Cavaliers personalities, including Hype Man Ahmaad Crump, Mascots Sir CC and Moondog, and Cavs Entertainment Teams, “takeover” a gym class by leading kids through physical fitness activities including warm-ups, teaching the fundamentals of basketball, and speaking about the importance and value of CAVS: Commitment, Attitude, Voices, and Sportsmanship.

Wheelchair Cavaliers

presented by Cleveland Clinic

Established in 1992, the Wheelchair Cavaliers partner with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cleveland Clinic to compete on a national level as part of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association. Off the court, the Wheelchair Cavaliers mission is to make a difference in the community by helping educate and provide opportunities to children and newly injured adults with disabilities by building awareness. This mission is accomplished through various outreach efforts in the community including halftime appearances, speaking at schools/community organizations, performing demonstrations, competing at the highest level, and continuing to bring championships to the Cavaliers organization and the people of Greater Cleveland. The program also includes a Jr. Wheelchair Cavaliers team in partnership with the Achievement Centers for Children.

$20K

Dunks for Dollars | Goals for Gear

presented by Lexus

Every dunk shot made by a Cavs player and every goal scored by a Monsters player at a home or away game is a slam dunk and goal netted for the community thanks to a partnership between the Cavaliers and Lexus.

In 2022-23, every Cavs dunk and Monsters goal each earned a $10 donation from Lexus. With a total of 543 dunks and 217 goals, the teams’ players scored over $7,500 for the Cavaliers Community Foundation and Monsters Community Foundation. Funding supported charitable organizations in Northeast Ohio, where a number of multipurpose basketball/hockey equipment was donated to various community organizations during the offseason to encourage youth to develop a life-long love for basketball and hockey.

Awarded to Adaptive Sports Ohio

STEM Support

The Cavaliers and Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company partnership announced in 2017 continues to yield a very special community benefit to schools in Cleveland and Akron. The Cavaliers and Goodyear are funding $1 million of support to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programs in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) and Akron Public Schools (APS).

During the 2022-2023 season, the Cavaliers and Goodyear have opened newly renovated STEM Labs in CMSD’s Valley View Boys Leadership Academy and APS’s Innes Community Learning Center, East Community Learning Center and Hyre Community Learning Center. To complete the $1 million commitment with Goodyear, renovations are currently planned for four APS schools as well as one CMSD school.

$1M IN STEM SUPPORT FOR CMSD & APS

$2M

Raised from events hosted by the Cavs each year to benefit the Children’s Tumor Foundation to help them in their fight to end Neurofibromatosis

$133K

Total donated between 13 grants given to local nonprofits through the Cavaliers Community Foundation during the 2022-2023 season

$10K

each in grants awarded to 11 organizations, including Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Cornerstone of Hope, Merrick House, and RePlay for Kids

Awareness Nights and Drives

The team hosts awareness nights at games throughout each season to help support and promote important causes, including breast cancer with Cleveland Clinic and Susan G. Komen; mental health with Cleveland Clinic and several area-wide support services for mental wellbeing; autism with Cleveland Clinic Children’s and KultureCity; and many other causes. For each of these games, fans in attendance learn about the respective cause through in-game elements, on the concourse, and via the team’s website and social channels.

In addition, the Cavs host themed appreciation game nights, such as the annual Cavs Salute to Service presented by Ohio CAT, which honors former and current military members, as well as cultural and inclusive celebration nights, such as Black Heritage Celebration, Los Cavs Noche Latina, Pride Night, Women’s History Celebration, and more.

Throughout each year, the Cavs also hold drives at games to collect items for local organizations, including Cavs Food Drive to collect nonperishable food items for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank’s Harvest for Hunger initiative, and a toy collection during the holiday season for Cavs Toy Drive.

NF/Bow Tie Campaign

During the 2022-2023 season, the Cleveland Cavaliers, in partnership with NF Forward and the Children’s Tumor Foundation, launched the Bow Tie Campaign. The campaign honored Nick Gilbert, the late son of Chairman Dan Gilbert and his wife Jennifer Gilbert, and supported him and the millions of others worldwide affected by neurofibromatosis (NF). NF is a genetic disorder with no present cure that causes tumors to grow on nerve pathways anywhere in the body. It impacts 1 in every 3,000 people across all populations throughout the world, including all races, ethnicities, and genders. NF tumors can lead to blindness, deafness, bone abnormalities, disabling pain, and cancer.

Dan and Jennifer have passionately supported NF research for decades through the work of the Gilbert Family Foundation and NF Forward. NF Forward was established in 2017 to further advance the NF research efforts. Their vision is to eradicate NF by funding groundbreaking, cutting-edge research and raising awareness for the disease. NF Forward’s signature event is the beNeFit, a gala held in downtown Detroit each year. Since 2013, beNeFits I-X have raised over $55 million for NF research and attracted more than 1,700 supporters annually to join the fight to end NF.

460K Impressions from Bow Tie Night

The wine and gold bow tie, the emblem of the “Bow Tie Campaign,” was a highly visible part of the Cavs season. It appeared on the player warm-up jackets and the lapels of broadcasters, Cavs coaches, and front office members. It was also integrated into the game presentation to symbolize the strength and courage that all those impacted by the disease displayed every day.

Nick became the Cavs good luck charm at age 14, when he first represented the team during the 2011 NBA Draft Lottery donning his signature bow tie. That was the first of three occasions that the team would win the #1 pick in a four-year span -- all with Nick at the helm. While Nick lost his battle with NF earlier this year, his unrelenting spirit continues to be a driving force behind our organization.

Wine & Gold Gala

The Cleveland Cavaliers hosted their inaugural Wine & Gold Gala the night of Saturday, October 2 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. The new fundraising event was a golden success, raising nearly $700,000 thanks to the generosity of the over 500 guests in attendance.

Every dollar raised will go straight back into the Northeast Ohio community through annual grants given to grantees of the Cavaliers Community Foundation.

Guests arrived at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, clad in feathers, pearls and gold galore, and were transported to Cavalier City, a 1920s Atlantic City-style boardwalk.

Cavs players, Community Champions (representatives of the Cavs Community Foundation grantees) and Big Shots (individuals with an important presence in the NEO community) shared their stories about how the funds raised from the Gala would positively impact the Northeast Ohio community.

After the stage show and a live auction, Cavalier City roared to life, opening the gaming portion of the night, with attendees having the opportunity to play imitation casino and carnival games alongside the players and coaches of the 20222023 Cleveland Cavaliers.

Season of Giving

The Cavaliers held their annual Season of Giving, dedicating time and resources to providing a happier holiday for local families in need. Players and coaches hosted families from CMSD’s Project ACT at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse to dish out turkey and “all the fixings” for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner; the Cavaliers teamed up with the Cleveland Monsters for their annual Toy Drive to distribute toys to local youth organizations, including a Toy Drive Party & Movie Night for Urban Community School; and the entire team was back in person to visit young patients and their families at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

$48M in Giving

With more than $48 million total in community, civic and charitable giving, a wide range of local non-profit organizations and charities have benefited from the Cavaliers in the 25-plus years the team has been in downtown Cleveland.

Education

Each year, the Cavaliers reach thousands of children in Cleveland and across several counties in Northeast Ohio through the team's many educational programs.

Several of those focus on the importance of education at all levels, kindergarten through high school. The Cavaliers coordinate reading initiatives in schools through SCORE with Reading presented by Cleveland-Cliffs, distribute free books to children through the Cavs Mobile Book Fair powered by FirstEnergy, recognize hardworking teachers with Head of the Class presented by Huntington and use basketball to teach fundamental math skills through NBA Math Hoops presented by Rocket Mortgage. The Cavaliers Scholarship Program supported by Huntington, awarded a total of $50,000 in college scholarships to ten high school seniors in 2023.

In-arena host, Ahmaad Crump, surprised a few classes with Reading Time-outs. He read with students and spoke on the importance of literacy and the game of basketball .

52K VOLUNTEER HOURS SPENT BY FOC TEAM MEMBERS

Team Members of the Rock Entertainment Group, that includes members of the Cavaliers, Cleveland Monsters, Cleveland Charge, Cavs Legion and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, strive to make a difference in our community through various volunteer opportunities. Team Members volunteer as a part of company programs and initiatives as well as with local non-profit organizations each month.

1M+ MEALS FUNDED FOR THOSE IN NEED ▶

Greater Cleveland Food Bank 2023 The Bag of Hope Award

Following the 2022-2023 Regular Season, the Cleveland Cavaliers were recognized by Greater Cleveland Food Bank by being selected to receive the 2023 The Bag of Hope Award!

The Bag of Hope Award is given each year to one organization that demonstrates unparalleled commitment to Harvest for Hunger. Organizations are considered for this award based on the participation of their employees, creativity of their drive, and support of hunger relief efforts, and is awarded to organizations with more than 200 employees. This year’s Greater Cleveland Harvest for Hunger campaign was able to serve 29,434,650 meals!

The Cavaliers were nominated for the award based on their commitment to the Fight Against Hunger inclusive of participation in the Harvest for Hunger campaign (via Cavs Food Drive), Cavaliers Community Markets, multiple food distribution events, and more.

Left to Right: Kristin Warzoch, President and CEO, Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Vanessa Whiting, President, A.E.S. Management Corp.dpa Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Lucy Veres, Cavs Director of Community Impact, Pam Frasco, VP of Community Impact, Raven Payne, Manager Community Impact and Engagement, Cleveland Monsters

130K+ CHILDREN REACHED

Appearances

Understanding the positive influence that they can have on our youth and others in the Greater Cleveland community, Cavaliers players and coaches make an average of 200 community appearances each year, including hospital visits, serving meals to underserved communities, distributing toys during the holidays, and much more. Players and coaches also regularly meet and spend time with members of Wine & Gold United and corporate partners.

Cavaliers Legends

The mission of the Cavaliers Legends Program is to promote, enhance and preserve the team’s lineage by acting as a resource of support for former players. Legends allow fans to reconnect with the history of Cavaliers basketball and maintain strong relationships within its local and surrounding communities.

Cavaliers Legends who are currently actively involved in the program include Austin Carr, Jim Chones, Barry Clemens, Larry Nance, Sr., Bingo Smith, Elmore Smith, and Campy Russell.

Jarrett Allen works with local Cleveland students during his annual Math + Meals initiative. The goal is to educate children while providing Thanksgiving dinners to families in need.

Cavaliers COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

The Cavaliers Community Foundation invests in organizations that directly support the development and well-being of youth in Northeast Ohio. The foundation has been granting funds to local non-profit organizations since its inception in 1993.

$2M

Raised over the last five years for the Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity

$75K

Donated to the NAACP over the last three years in support of their annual Freedom Fund dinner

Benefitting Organizations:

$230K IN GRANTS FORTHE 2022-23 SEASON

Cleveland MONSTERS

The Monsters Community Foundation was created to support the Northeast Ohio community through programs that that address the areas of education, youth hockey, health and wellness, and basic needs.

Supporting the Local Community

More than $200K donated to various community organizations

We Are Rainbow

University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital in Cleveland is one of the top children's hospitals and medical centers in the country, and a partner of the Monsters since 2015. In the summer of 2022, the Monsters and University Hospitals began planning an initiative that would promote the Rainbow brand while benefitting patients, families, and caretakers. The partnership with UH Rainbow was highlighted by a player hospital visit, unique theme jerseys, and an impactful donation.

Georgie worked with Monsters forward Robbie Payne to create his nameplate for the specialty jersey on April 1. As Georgie's health improved, he was able to come to the game and was given the VIP treatment, riding in a limousine provided by Monsters partner Thomas Limo with his family to the game. Georgie was able to participate in pregame high fives, where Robbie Payne said hello and showed him his work of art on his jersey on the way out to the ice.

4.1K+ tickets donated to community partners

$244K+ raised at Monsters home games and events throughout the season, benefitting local non-profit and charitable programs

13K+ toys that were collected from the Monsters Toy Drive presented by Lexus and the annual Teddy Bear Toss event and donated to several non-profit organizations in the Cleveland area

240+ hours dedicated to the community in Northeast Ohio

5 families adopted during the Holiday times by Physicians Ambulance, Cleveland Monsters Players and Front Office Staff

237 backpacks supplied to students within Cleveland Metro School District (CMSD)

300 JoyJars packed with the Jessie Rees Foundation and the Monsters Hockey Club

$23K DONATED TO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL RAINBOW BABIES AND CHILDEERN

▶ Specialty jerseys

▶ Postgame skate alongside HOPE (Healthy Outcome, Positive Energy)

▶ Hand-painted name plates

Benefitting Organizations

▶ A Special Wish

▶ Adaptive Sports Ohio

▶ American Cancer Society

▶ CBz Buddies

▶ Contemporary Youth Orchestra

▶ Doing Better Than Excellence

▶ Greater Cleveland Food Bank

▶ HOLA Ohio

▶ Jessie Rees Foundation

▶ NOCL: Youth Program

▶ University Hospital

▶ and more!

Player Programs

▶ Points for Paws: Monsters forward Brendan Gaunce helped create a new program called Points for Paws together with his fiancé Heidi. Brendan and Heidi donated $5,000 to the Cleveland APL as well as visiting the facilities to volunteer time and highlight adoptable animals each month.

▶ Simmers Sidekicks: Monsters captain Dillon Simpson helped create a new program called Simmer's Sidekicks which took place every Saturday night when he hosted a local athlete from Special Olympics Ohio. Simpson provided the group with tickets, food, Monsters gear and the chance to send the team onto the ice as part of Cave Crew. Additionally, Simpson held a meet-and-greet with each child and their family following the end of the game.

▶ Hockey for Heroes: Every Friday night, the Cleveland Monsters had a special in-game recognition for veterans from The Domiciliary Care Program and gave the chance to meet with players following the game.

Community Nights & Engagement

▶ Black Heritage Celebration presented by Immaculate Cleaning

▶ First Responders Night present by Physicians Ambulance

▶ Hispanic Heritage Night presented by Rocket Mortgage

▶ Hockey Fights Cancer

▶ Pride Night

▶ Salute to Service presented by CCVSC

▶ Womens History Celebration presented by Athleta

Cleveland CHARGE

Coming off the second year in Cleveland, the Charge has laid a foundation as a true community partner. Building off last year’s success, the Charge nearly doubled its impact in the community through tickets, donations, grants, and hands-on support.

▶ Raised approximately $19,000 for local charities through six specialty jersey auctions this year, including franchise-best $4,064.27 from the Machine Gun Kelly auction on March 17, 2023.

▶ Hosted group recognitions on DEI Nights this year – PRIDE night, Black History Celebration, Women’s History Celebration and Noche Latina

▶ Supported 365 different charity events in the community through donations of tickets and raffle prize baskets.

Launched flagship community programs like Barbershop Banter, which was the recipient of the NBA G League 2023 Social Responsibility Award, and Homeroom Hoopers.

Partnered with our basketball operations team for Scouting and Scavenging, in which players, coaches, and front office staff collected toiletries on the road throughout the season that were donated to City Mission.

9K+ TICKETS DONATED TO ORGANIZATIONS IN THE NEO COMMUNITY

Cavs LEGION

Cavs Legion Gaming Club (GC), the NBA 2K League affiliate of the Cleveland Cavaliers, continues to have a significant positive impact on the lives of children in the Greater Cleveland area and beyond through the love of gaming, esports and the use of technology.

▶ Youth Challenge – a nonprofit working with young adults who suffer from a mental and/or physical disabilities came to the Lair 3 times for gaming sessions!

▶ 30 Kids from Boys Hope Girls Hope – had the opportunity to come to the Legion Lair lit by TCP for a two day gaming and educational camp. The student heard form professionals from the Cavs and Intel.

▶ Legion on the Go powered by Intel takes the CLGC team and staff out into the community to help educate kids and young adults on the career paths of gaming and STEM, focusing on DEI efforts to expand the “no barrier to play” even further by hosting career path panels and Women in Gaming panels.

▶ Supplemented a Make-A-Wish for a kid in the Greater Cleveland Area

▶ Activated a tournament and educational session – in the Akron Area with partner, S3 Technologies

▶ Hosted 1,000+ - high school and middle school kids at the Lair for education on collegiate esports with our partner, Cleveland State University Esports.

▶ CLGC hosted the esports Ohio tournaments and the CMSD Senate League Championships at the Cavs Legion Lair lit by TCP

Youth SPORTS

The Cleveland Cavaliers are committed to inspiring future generations to grow the game of basketball. With 35,494 total athletes, the Cavs Youth Sports programs have a mission to motivate the youth of Ohio and beyond to be active, make championship choices on and off the court and build confidence in their athletic abilities through the game of basketball.

Cavalittles

Cavalittles is the entry-level basketball program for youth ages 4-7. The program focuses on acclimating youth to spending time on the court and introduces the FUN of playing team sports. Participants will develop their physical agility and coordination, learn the importance of teamwork and following directions, and gain confidence and new friends all through on-court programming.

Jr. Cavs

The Jr. Cavs partner program provides support to our local Parks & Recreation Centers, YMCAs and other community rec programs to elevate the experience of league play while establishing the fundamentals of teamwork and an openness to coaching. By partnering with these community programs, the Cavaliers have helped to provide kids aged 6-12 the opportunity to learn what it takes to win both on and off the court.

Cavs Academy

Cavs Academy, the official youth basketball program of the Cleveland Cavaliers, helps develop the skills of young athletes through Cavaliers Academy summer camps, clinics and school programs. The program is open to youth of all skill levels ages 8-14.

85 ACTIVE COMMUNITY PARTNERS

70 CAMPS AND CLINICS IN THE LAST YEAR

Cavs Elite

Cavs Elite creates a world-class atmosphere at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse for high school teams to experience a day in the shoes of an NBA player through high school basketball games and tournaments.

32 HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL GAMES

335 KIDS FROM 17 CMSD SCHOOL

Monsters Youth Hockey

The Cleveland Monsters held their first All Girls On Ice Clinic in partnership with Blake Bolden during Women’s History Month. 35 girls, ages 6-16 years old, from all over Northeast Ohio participated.

The Cleveland Monsters have established a new partnership with Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), a national non-profit movement that inspires and empowers youth and high school sports organizations to leverage the unique opportunity sports presents to build character in our youth. Two workshops were provided this season with Learn to Play presented by University Hospital Sports Medicine, coaches and leadership boards.

The Monsters hosted the Greater Cleveland High School Hockey League All-Star Game, an annual game held at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse showcasing the league’s best high school hockey players of the season. Nominated by their coaches, 60 of the league’s best players take the ice for a tournament style event to represent their high school with the hopes of bringing home an All-Star Game trophy.

CMSD Period 0 & Period 9 Before & After School Program

1.5K+ KIDS RECEIVED TRAINING AND INSTRUCTION THIS SEASON

$23K+ IN EQUIPMENT DONATED TO YOUTH HOCKEY PARTNERS

1.1K+ PARTICIPATED IN RINK OF DREAMS

CMSD Period 0/9 is a before and after school program for grades 3-8 in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.