Money Box Academy launches to empower communities across North Carolina with financial literacy

By Staff Report, posted Oct 2, 2024 on BizFayetteville.com

On Sept. 7, 2024, Box Academy Inc. (MBA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, officially launched its mission to provide intergenerational financial literacy to the community with a focus on underserved and underrepresented communities.

The launch event, held at the Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC), brought together key stakeholders from across North Carolina, including Mayor Mitch Colvin, who emphasized the importance of financial literacy in supporting small businesses.

President of FCEDC, Robert Van Geons pictured with MBA Founder Crystal McLean. Photo provided by: MBA

President of FCEDC, Robert Van Geons, highlighted the power of financial education in closing the wealth gap and creating opportunities. Councilman Malik Davis of District 2 stressed how MBA's program will uplift underserved communities that lack access to consistent financial knowledge.

Crystal McLean, Founder and Board Chair of Money Box Academy, shared her inspiration behind founding the nonprofit, explaining that workforce development and other societal challenges often stem from a lack of financial education.

Crystal McLean, Founder and Board Chair of Money Box Academy. Photo provided by: MBA

"Financial literacy should be accessible to all communities, no matter their age or background. We want to create a community where financial education is a right, not a privilege," McLean stated in a press release. A Fayetteville State University graduate, speaker, community advocate, and bestselling author, McLean aims to make a lasting impact in her hometown.

MBA's programs focus on youth, adults, business owners, veterans and seniors, offering essential financial education. The event welcomed industry leaders from City of Fayetteville and Council Members, Commissioner Glenn Adams, First Bank, NC Works, the Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board, NC Business Connectivity Alliance, Merrill Lynch, First Citizens Bank, The Tulsa Initiative, and more.
During the presentation, McLean shared with guests how each organization can effectively partner with MBA. Pastor Lorna Taylor of Chosen Remnant Ministries closed the event with a prayer for MBA's success, calling for prosperity in its mission to empower communities through financial literacy.

Mayor Mitch Colvin emphasized the importance of financial literacy in supporting small businesses. Photo provided by: MBA

The organization plans to launch its official programs in early 2025,with partnership programs beginning in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Looking Ahead

Money Box Academy is hosting its first cohort of adult financial literacy students in 2025, with upcoming partnerships and programs in collaboration with local initiatives. Notably, the launch event included special appearances from Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin and Commissioner Robert Van Geons, who praised the initiative for addressing the wealth gap and fostering financial growth for small businesses.

For more information on MBA’s programs, or to get involved, visit www.moneyboxacademy.org.

You can also watch MBA's Launch event Recap Video here.

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