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The Vault is Open: Money Box Academy hosts gala
- Details
- Tuesday, 07 October 2025
- Written by Amber Little
Money Box Academy has been rolling nonstop since its launch. Committed to their mission of closing the financial knowledge gap — one workshop, one partnership, and one empowered individual at a time, Money Box has already made a significant impact on the Cumberland County community through workshops, training programs, and financial programs geared toward adults and youth.
The nonprofit is taking financial education to new heights. On Saturday, Oct. 18, Money Box Academy will host its inaugural gala at Shabain Farms and Event Center at 469 Posey Farm Rd. in Raeford. A Night to Remember: “The Vault is Open” Gala will bring together leaders, community advocates, and business owners under one roof, all with the mission of building financially intelligent and resilient communities. The gala will feature a fine dining experience, live music, and a curated networking opportunity, as well as honor leaders in the community who are making a difference.
This year’s inaugural honorees are: Lakeisha Rolle, founder of The Financial Academy in the Bahamas; Coach Rachel Hanible of Philadelphia will be honored for her transformative teaching and advocacy; and five others will be honored for their work towards the mission of Money Box Academy and advancing financial literacy. Local insurance guru, affectionately known as The Insurance Guy, Jerome Scott, will be receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades of service, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to strengthening families through financial security and education.
Hosting the gala is nationally recognized, best-selling financial coach Anthony O’Neal. O’Neal was chosen because of his decades of service and mentorship. His support for Money Box Academy is proof that the nonprofit is not only making an impact, but the work is being seen beyond the city.
Organizers say attendees can look forward to “expect an atmosphere equal parts celebratory and catalytic, with proceeds funding expanded programs for youth, families, and small business owners across North Carolina. Our inaugural year’s theme, “The Vault Is Open”, symbolizes more than access to financial resources-it reflects our mission to unlock opportunity for all. We believe every individual deserves access to the tools, knowledge, and support to thrive financially. Together, we are opening doors that were once closed and building pathways for lasting change.”
Nothing Money Box Academy does is without purpose. There will be a silent auction during the gala to raise money for youth and community programming.
Founder Crystal McLean, a dedicated community leader and finance expert, said, “This night is more than a fundraiser; it is a movement. We are gathering the people who believe in creating lasting change for families, students, and entrepreneurs. Anthony’s presence, combined with the recognition of leaders like Lakeisha Rolle, Rachel Hanible, Jerome Scott, and our other honorees, signals to our community that the conversation around money, resilience, and
opportunity belongs right here in Fayetteville.”
Doors open at 4:30 p.m. for Mocktail Hour, and the festivities start at 5:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at https://moneyboxacademy.info/home. Single tickets are $150.00, and Sponsorship tables are $1,215 (table seats 9 guests). Contact partnerships@moneyboxacademy.org or call 910-983-2803. There are several local businesses, banks and law firms sponsoring the inaugural gala, solidifying the work that Money Box Academy is truly doing in Cumberland County.
The event is suitable for members of all ages in the community, and there are specific kid-friendly attractions planned for the day. 
