Step into a Roaring Twenties inspired night where vintage glamour meets a powerful purpose. Rock the Foundation returns in 2026 with an Art Deco infused celebration that brings together Cleveland’s bench, bar, and business community to support the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation and its life changing programs.
On this special evening, every toast, conversation, and song helps open the door to greater justice, education, and opportunity across our community. Your night will include curated dishes from THYME Catering, an open bar with signature cocktails, live entertainment by a Cleveland Jazz Orchestra quintet, an immersive speakeasy experience with guest activations, photo ops, and much more.
Event DetailsÂ
The 2026 Pogue Award will be presented at this year’s Rock the Foundation, honoring Charles A. Bittenbender, former lawyer and current Chair of the Board of Directors of Apollo’s Fire Baroque Orchestra. The Pogue Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation, recognizing extraordinary leadership and community impact.
Learn more about the 2026 recipient → | Explore the history of the Pogue Award →
Not sure what to wear? Step into the spirit of the Jazz Age with our What to Wear style guide, featuring historically inspired looks, silhouettes, and details to help you dress for Rock the Foundation 20.
Rock the Foundation is more than a celebration. It is a vital fundraiser for the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation, fueling programs that deliver real, measurable impact across our community. Proceeds from the event support initiatives that:
Expand access to justice for individuals and organizations in need
Support civic and law-related education for students across Greater Cleveland
Invest in the next generation of diverse, civic-minded legal leaders
By attending, sponsoring, or giving, you help ensure these efforts not only continue, but grow, reaching more people and strengthening our legal community for years to come.
See your impact in action → | Learn why your support matters →
Sponsorship of Rock the Foundation 2026 provides meaningful support for the mission of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation, while offering visibility among Cleveland’s legal, business, and civic leaders. All sponsorship levels combine community impact with valuable recognition.
Sponsorship benefits include:
Direct support for the Bar Foundation’s mission, advancing access to justice, education, and opportunity
Recognition among engaged, community-minded professionals
Visibility across event promotions, digital channels, and on-site signage
Complimentary event tickets, based on sponsorship level
View sponsorship levels and benefits →
To learn more about Sponsorship offerings or to secure your support, please contact:
Karli Smith
Email: ksmith@clemetrobar.org
Prefer to support the event through an individual gift? Donations outside of sponsorship are always welcome.
