Page 6 - The Fayetteville Press Newspaper November 2025 Edition

Page 6 The Fayetteville Press November 2025 Edition

Fayetteville Nonprofit Launches Unforgettable Experience: The Vault Is Open,

A Celebration of Financial Resilience and Community Impact

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C., October 19, 2025 — In a city known for its Adding to the evening’s excitement was the presence of local ce-
military heritage and deep community pride, one local nonprofit has rede- lebrity Chef Judy, who joined other distinguished guests in celebrating
fined what it means to merge purpose, prestige, and power into a single the milestone event, further cementing the gala’s reputation as a premier
evening. Money Box Academy Inc., a pioneering organization dedicated celebration of excellence, empowerment, and culture.
to financial literacy and economic empowerment, hosted its Inaugural This extraordinary event was made possible through the generous
Gala, “The Vault Is Open: Building Financially Resilient Communi- support of cornerstone sponsors including Jerome Scott & Associates
ties,” on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Shabain Farms & Event Center. Financial Group, BKS Construction, First Bank, Phortified Skin and
The sold-out experience welcomed more than 160 guests from Hair Studio, Stacy Jones Foundation, Milk and Cookies Creative, CME
across North Carolina and the nation, including attendees who traveled Strategies, and many more who believe in this mission. Their partner-
from Mississippi, Maryland, California, Florida, and even as far as the ship embodies the collaborative spirit at the heart of Money Box
Bahamas. The gathering brought together state and local officials, busi- Academy’s work to empower and elevate communities.
ness leaders, educators, faith leaders, and community visionaries united Guests enjoyed a chef-curated dinner experience, signature
by a shared commitment to financial empowerment. mocktails, and a celebration of unity and purpose. Photography and
From the moment guests stepped on the premises, the atmosphere videography were captured by Mela Jay Photography and Videography
was electric. The evening was powerfully emceed by Larry Cummings and JPEG Photography, ensuring that every memorable moment of the
Jr., who guided the program with humor, warmth, and excellence. The night was preserved for generations to come.
celebration opened with a stirring performance by recording artist Nikki In her closing remarks, Crystal McLean, Founder and President of
Giovanni, whose soulful voice set a tone of inspiration and unity. Later in Money Box Academy, shared a powerful declaration: “Financial literacy
the night, Mytia Washington brought the evening to a close with a mov- Learn more at www.moneyboxacademy.org or is not just a skill. It is a lifeline that changes families, generations, and
ing and unforgettable performance that left the audience in awe. Guests follow @MoneyBoxAcademy on social media. the future of our communities.” Her message reflected the heart of the
were also treated to live art from celebrity painter Christopher Evans, organization’s mission to unlock access and equity through education.
who created a stunning masterpiece in real time that symbolized resil- The evening featured an engaging Financial Resilience The Money Box Academy Inaugural Gala marked a defining mo-
ience, unity, and hope. Panel where Anthony O’Neal was joined by Lakeisha Rolle- ment for Fayetteville, setting the stage for expanded statewide program-
A highlight of the evening came as #1 national bestselling author Deveaux, Coach Rachael Hanible, and Kishanna Heyward. To- ming, youth financial bootcamps, and strategic partnerships that will
and personal finance expert Anthony O’Neal, a proud graduate of South gether, they shared practical strategies for managing finances empower thousands across the country and beyond.
View High School in Fayetteville, took the stage. Now a global voice in in turbulent times, building generational wealth, and overcom- The night also served as a meaningful fundraiser to fuel the
financial education, O’Neal returned to his hometown to deliver a mes- ing economic barriers. The discussion offered attendees ac- organization’s next phase of impact. Proceeds from the event will help
sage centered on “The Four Personal Vaults” — the spiritual, mental, tionable insights and inspired renewed commitment to finan- launch new programs, including one-on-one low or no-cost financial
relational, and financial areas that every person must protect and grow to cial growth and community leadership. counseling for families, an upcoming college tour for high school stu-
achieve lasting success. His keynote challenged guests to shift their Money Box Academy also honored exceptional individu- dents, and the organization’s biggest expansion yet — the opening of a
mindset about money and purpose, reminding them that true wealth be- als and organizations making an impact in financial education new state chapter in Maryland. Each initiative moves Money Box Acad-
gins within. and entrepreneurship. Lakeisha Rolle-Deveaux of The Finan- emy closer to its goal of creating financially resilient communities na-
Senator Val Applewhite brought greetings from the state, commend- cial Academy in the Bahamas, Coach Rachael Hanible, Jerome tionwide.
ing Money Box Academy’s leadership and its mission to expand financial T. Scott, and Kishanna Heyward were recognized for their lead- For those inspired to support this growing movement, contribu-
literacy across North Carolina. Dignitaries and leaders were also present ership and contributions to economic empowerment. Two emerg- tions can be made at www.moneyboxacademy.org/donate. Every dona-
in support, including Mayor of Spring Lake Kia Anthony and Fayetteville ing youth leaders, Elijah Mitchell and Aria Freeman, were pre- tion directly strengthens programs that change lives, build futures, and
City Council Members Malik Davis and Courtney Banks-McLaughlin, sented with scholarships sponsored by CME Strategies for keep “the vault” open for those who need it most.
who joined other local officials in celebrating the organization’s impact their innovation and leadership in financial technology and cre- As McLean concluded, “The vault is officially open, not just for
and growing legacy. ative development. Fayetteville, but for every community ready to rise.”

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