Meet Nefateria: Her light shines through in everything she does
Our organization has been promoting emotional well-being for more than five decades, and it is our amazing staff who are the heartbeat of all we do.
In honor of Vibrant’s 56th Anniversary, we are spotlighting staff and their journeys. Nefateria Butler, program director of the Adolescent Skills Center in the Bronx and the Adolescent Career and Development Center program, is a dedicated and passionate team member whose light shines through in everything she does. In this spotlight, she shares how her personal experiences have shaped her approach to social work, what keeps her motivated, and the power of simply being present for the young people she serves.
Nefateria’s passion for working with young people began in high school, thanks to an English teacher who saw something special in her.
“She had an overcrowded freshman class and asked if I’d help out to keep the students focused. I agreed, and I loved it.”
That teacher gave her something even more powerful: belief. “You have a gift,” they told her. “That stuck with me. Her belief in me gave me the push to pursue college and this line of work,” Nefateria said.
It’s the same kind of belief Nefateria now works to instill in every student who walks through Vibrant’s doors.
At Vibrant’s Adolescent Skills Centers, we prepare youth with emotional and behavioral challenges to succeed in the world of work through comprehensive vocational training and supportive educational programs.
For Nefateria, success in her work isn’t just about academic progress. It’s about connection.
“The teacher made me realize how important it is for every young person—especially Black and Brown students—to have someone believe in them. Too often, they’re overlooked, unheard, or not given a second chance. I’ve seen it with friends, family, and in my community. As a Black woman from the Bronx, I know how much it matters to have someone who listens, who shows you another way, and who simply believes in you.”
“I know how much it matters to have someone who listens, who shows you another way, and who simply believes in you.”
Camaraderie doesn’t happen by chance. It is the result of trust built over time.
“My favorite thing is when students come into my office just to talk. Whether they need a break, something’s bothering them, or they just want to say, ‘I’m here to bother Miss Neffy,’” she said with a smile. “They know me, and I know them. Not just as program participants, but as individuals,” she added. “That kind of connection isn’t always common in youth spaces, and it means a lot to me.”
“They know me, and I know them. Not just as program participants, but as individuals.”
Nefateria’s own path at Vibrant reflects a story of connection. After her initial role was phased out in 2013, she transitioned to working as a literacy tutor. Later, she stepped away to work in foster care. But in 2016, the Bronx ASC called her back.
With encouragement from a former colleague and mentorship from Jackie Brown, she returned as a case manager. Over time, she grew into new roles: lead case manager, then assistant program director, and now director.
A growth mindset helped her rise through the ranks. “To me, a growth mindset is about wanting more. Not necessarily for yourself, but for the youth you serve,” she said. “Growth is uncomfortable. It takes work. But if your goal is to make things even a little better, you have to stay open to learning, evolving, and stepping into harder spaces.”
Nefateria understands the importance of self-care. Especially in a line of work that can be emotionally intense. The best advice she’s received? Take care of yourself.
The best advice she’s received? Take care of yourself.
“Social work is a lot. You’re face to face with people every day, hearing their stories, their struggles, and sometimes their trauma. I’ve learned to take my vacation time, take breaks during the day, and check in with myself. Sometimes, that means keeping my office door open and being available, but other times, I have to close it, take a moment, eat my lunch, and reset. That balance is key.”
“I’m grateful for the growth and opportunities I’ve had along the way,” she says.
And her program participants? They are grateful for her, too. For the comfort of her office, for the honesty in her words, and for the steady encouragement that lets them know they are seen, heard, and capable of so much.
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