El proyecto del efecto mariposa
Creando espacios seguros para que las niñas sueñen y triunfen.
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BEP’s Supplemental Programming
Arches
​BEP has developed different “Arches” or supplemental programming throughout its existence based on participant interests and passions. These are based on BEP's Core Programming Pillar:
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CONFIDENCE BUILDING
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SELF & COMMUNITY CARE
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HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
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CRITICAL THINKING
Environmental Programming
Garden Club
The Intergenerational Community Garden Club brings together Butterflies and Dragonflies to plant, nurture, and harvest fresh produce while cultivating healthy and sustainable habits. Together, we grow food for our families, the local community, and food pantries, helping to address food deserts in our neighborhoods. Beyond the garden, members create self-care items and flower arrangements from the bounty, blending creativity with wellness.
Meetings are held primarily on Thursdays, alternating between weekly and biweekly to match the rhythm of the growing seasons. Under the guidance of Ambassador Ms. Brie and Master Gardener Mr. Jonathan, participants gain not only gardening skills but also mentorship, community connection, and a sense of intergenerational collaboration.
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Arts Programming
Butterfly Monologues
The Butterfly Monologues, in partnership with the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, invites Butterflies and Dragonflies to discover the power of their own voices. Over 12–14 weeks, meeting weekly, participants explore storytelling, develop performance skills, and learn to advocate for themselves with confidence and grace.
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The program culminates in a live performance on stage, giving each participant the opportunity to share their story with the community. We are grateful to Ms. Julienne, Executive Director of the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, whose leadership and mentorship make this transformative experience possible.
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BEP Dance Teams
BEP has four dance teams that Butterflies can join, namely:​
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Shooting Starz is our junior majorette training team for ages 10–13, designed to bridge the gap between beginner performance and competitive majorette life. This walk-on team introduces the fundamentals of major-style dance, precision, and showmanship while inspiring creativity, teamwork, and discipline. Members wear performance uniforms that reflect a competitive spirit and begin mastering essential techniques. Although open to all, tryouts are held for Captain and Co-Captain roles, giving young performers a chance to lead and shine.
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Butterfly Blitz is our elite competition majorette team for ages 14–18 (or high school students who have graduated from the Shooting Starz program). This highly skilled, audition-based team embodies dedication, discipline, creativity, and sisterhood. As the only majorette team on the East End of Long Island, Butterfly Blitz proudly represents the legacy and artistry of HBCU-style majorettes, blending athletic precision with cultural expression.
Founded by Butterfly alumna Alex Archer, every routine is intentionally crafted to honor the rhythm, power, and heritage of the African experience, while celebrating individuality through synchronized movement, confidence, and flair. The team travels throughout Long Island and beyond, competing and performing to showcase the spirit of excellence that defines the Butterfly legacy.
Within the Butterfly Effect Project, the majorette journey mirrors transformation—from caterpillar to butterfly—teaching members to use their bodies as instruments of art and empowerment. Butterfly Blitz is more than a dance team; it’s a movement of strength, unity, and self-expression in motion.
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The Elite Squad is our feet-pounding, hand-clapping, show-stopping Steppin’ Drill Team, made up of young men and women ages 12–18 (or graduates of the program). This dynamic team transforms rhythm, movement, and voice into an audible and visual art form—where every stomp, shout, and clap tells a story of power, unity, and resilience.
Members must audition to join this elite group, as the team represents the highest level of discipline, dedication, and precision. Stepping is more than movement—it’s communication through rhythm, a way to find your voice, build confidence, and express identity through synchronized energy and strength.
As the only competitive community-based step and drill team on the East End of Long Island, The Elite Squad stands apart, blending tradition, creativity, and modern influence. Weekly practices—and intensified sessions during competition and show seasons—prepare members for excellence on and off the stage.
Often performing alongside the Butterfly Blitz Majorette Team, The Elite Squad embodies the heartbeat of the Butterfly Effect Project—a rhythm of empowerment, teamwork, and artistry that commands attention and inspires pride.
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Precious Pearls are the heart of our program—our youngest dancers, ages 5–9, who remind us of the joy, kindness, and wonder that live inside every child. This walk-on team focuses on building character, friendship, and confidence through fun, age-appropriate movement and team connection.
Our Precious Pearls learn the essentials of life—how to be kind, how to be a good friend, and how to shine from the inside out. Their dance style mirrors the joy of a birthday party with friends—playful, expressive, and full of laughter—while gently introducing rhythm, coordination, and teamwork.
Meeting on Fridays (with schedules adjusted as needed for performances), this group lays the foundation for personal growth and discipline in the most joyful way. No experience is needed—just a smile and a willingness to learn, play, and sparkle.
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Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center (WHBPAC) Chapter
Our Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Chapter is more than a chapter — it’s an extension of FAMILY.
Through our partnership with the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, our Butterflies and Dragonflies are gifted the opportunity to discover themselves through the arts — to express, explore, and evolve.
From singing and dancing to playwriting, film, and cultural experiences, this chapter allows our youth to step into the world of creative expression and see the beauty of who they are reflected through art.
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Together, we’re creating a space where families, youth, and our community can learn, see, and feel the magic that theatre brings to life. This chapter is open to every Butterfly, Dragonfly, and their family — a true communion of creativity, connection, and joy.
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Social Justice Programming
Butterfly Action Group (BAG)
Created by Butterfly graduate Azharia Allen, the Butterfly Action Group (BAG) turns passion into action. Butterflies and Dragonflies explore racial and social justice issues, learn about government and policies, and engage in conversations that uncover the “why” and “how” behind systemic change.
Participants design education campaigns, engage in out-of-classroom experiences, and explore the power of the vote to advocate for equity in their communities. Guided by Ambassadors Ms. Tia and Ms. Lisa, BAG meets weekly and maintains ongoing communication for real-time discussion of everyday issues. This youth-led program empowers members with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to create meaningful, lasting change.
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Career Prep Programming
Job Readiness Class
BEP’s Job Readiness Class prepares Butterflies and Dragonflies to land their first jobs or advance to better opportunities. This 6–8 week program, led by Ambassador Ms. Tara, covers resume building, the interview process, professional communication with employers, workplace behavior and attire, and essential job skills.
The course also emphasizes financial responsibility, including saving, budgeting, and planning for the future. Upon completion, participants receive job placements with our partner vendors, giving them real-world experience and a strong start in the workforce. Job Readiness is a recurring class held every spring, empowering young people with the confidence and skills to succeed professionally.
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Future Teachers of Tomorrow
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Future Teachers of Tomorrow is a school-based, after-school program that gives our butterflies and dragonflies the opportunity to explore careers within their own school districts. Participants shadow a wide range of professionals — from educators and principals to nurses and security staff — gaining firsthand insight into the roles that keep a school thriving.
This chapter helps schools create a pipeline program that connects students to the many ways they can give back to their community, while also exploring potential career paths. By shadowing professionals, our butterflies and dragonflies not only see the day-to-day responsibilities of each role, but they also gain a deeper respect and appreciation for the skills, dedication, and “many hats” that these careers require.
Future Teachers of Tomorrow empowers butterflies and dragonflies to understand the impact of their contributions, explore possibilities for their future, and develop the knowledge and confidence to pursue their dreams — all while honoring and supporting their local schools.
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Butterfly Brains
Butterfly Brains is a chapter dedicated to empowering youth by providing the support they need to grow academically, creatively, and personally. This program connects our butterflies with a diverse network of local and international volunteers, offering tutoring both in person and remotely. Our tutors span generations — from 12 to 72 years old — bringing a wealth of experience, perspective, and knowledge to meet different learning styles and levels.
Butterfly Brains is one of our most transformative programs, giving all our butterflies and dragonflies the tools and guidance to flourish. At Butterfly Effect Project, we believe that every young mind deserves the chance to expand, explore, and succeed. Here, failure is not the end but an opportunity to learn, and every bright brain is given the support to grow, shine, and reach its full potential.
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College Access
The College Access Program empowers Butterflies and Dragonflies to navigate the path to higher education and career success through a village approach led by Ms. Tia and Our Teen Transition Specialist Ms. Destiny, who works closely with each participant to ensure a smooth and positive transition from high school to college.
Participants receive personalized guidance on college applications, essays, SAT prep, financial planning, and budgeting, while exploring career paths in civil service, trades, military, and other higher learning opportunities. Hands-on experiences—including one-on-one mentorship, professional conversations, and college tours—give participants a clear view of what’s possible, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in their next chapter.
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College Retention
The Butterfly Effect Project College Retention Program is our connected support system designed for the young women and men who are off to college. We understand that getting to college is one thing, but getting through college is another.
This program creates a holistic network tailored to each student and their institution of choice, ensuring they have the tools, guidance, and resources needed for a successful college experience. Support extends beyond financial assistance — it includes mentorship, friendship, accountability, and connection to campus and community resources.
At The Butterfly Effect Project, we believe that accountability breeds responsibility. We want every young person in our program to understand what they need to do for their success and to know that they are not alone on this journey.
This opportunity is for those who are serious about the next chapter of their lives — those ready to take that meaningful step not just away from the organization, but toward their future. It serves as our bridge from youth to young adulthood, and we take great pride in ensuring each participant is equipped to thrive and lead confidently through their college years and beyond.
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Partner Programs
Young Entrepreneurs Succeed (YES)
In BEP’s Young Entrepreneurs Succeed (YES) program, Butterflies and Dragonflies partner with experienced business mentors to learn the fundamentals of creating, managing, and sustaining a business. Participants complete mentorships and courses, then have the opportunity to sell their products in our Butterfly Boutique, gaining hands-on experience in entrepreneurship and brand building.
Through this program, young entrepreneurs develop business skills, earn income, and strengthen their confidence, all while contributing to the sustainability of BEP through the revenue they help generate.
The Butterfly Closet
The Butterfly Closet chapter understands that when you look good, you feel good — and when you feel good, you do good. This chapter ensures that donations from across the East End don’t go to waste. Every item of clothing is carefully sorted, cleaned, refurbished, and prepared to serve both our butterflies and the larger community.
Through 4–5 free store pop-ups each year, families and community members gain access to everything they need at no cost — all it takes is showing up with a bag. From career attire to infant clothing, every article tells a story and offers another person the opportunity to continue theirs.
By transforming donations into tangible support, the Butterfly Closet opens doors for our participants, fosters pride, and strengthens the bonds of the community. This chapter meets at the Butterfly Headquarters, where youth and volunteers work hand-in-hand to ensure that every contribution directly benefits the people around them.
Nike Bootcamp
The Nike Boot Camp chapter is a collaboration between The Butterfly Effect Project and the Riverhead Nike Outlet. This chapter is all about having fun while staying active, offering youth the opportunity to play engaging, energetic games that keep their bodies moving.
Meeting once a month at the Butterfly Headquarters, participants laugh, connect, and burn energy and calories while building strength, coordination, and confidence. Nike Boot Camp combines fitness, fun, and community — showing our butterflies and dragonflies that staying active can be enjoyable, social, and empowering.
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Heritage Hive
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Heritage Hive is more than a chapter — it’s a bridge between the past, the present, and the future. This youth-led journey invites participants to uncover the stories, lineage, and ancestry that shape not only themselves but the communities they touch.
Starting with a personal questionnaire and two weeks of research, each participant will capture their journey in two 30-second videos — one reflecting hopes and expectations, the other revealing discoveries. Through this process, they don’t just learn history; they live it, connect with it, and let it guide the building of a community rooted in understanding, respect, and shared heritage.
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Community members are invited to engage directly with Heritage Hive participants to explore their own ancestry, by appointment only. Sessions are held both at the headquarters building and remotely, ensuring access for all who wish to honor their roots.
In Heritage Hive, knowing the story is only the beginning. Sharing it empowers each participant to illuminate their path, spark the legacy of their own heritage, and create ripples of knowledge, pride, and transformation that extend far beyond the chapter.
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The Circle Chapter
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The Circle Chapter is all about coming together to uplift, support, and protect one another. This is an intimate, highly focused chapter where guardians, volunteers, and staff unite in times of crisis to ensure our butterflies are never alone.
Unlike other chapters that meet regularly, The Circle convenes only when needed — in moments when a butterfly faces an emergency or life throws a curveball. Volunteers and participants in this chapter understand the importance of discretion and confidentiality, responding immediately and with care.
The Circle Chapter exists to provide everything a butterfly needs to navigate challenges successfully, ensuring that no matter the obstacle, they have the support, guidance, and resources to knock it out of the park.
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Butterfly and Dragonfly Chapters
Our Butterfly and Dragonfly chapters are designed to align with our curriculum while meeting the unique needs of each school and community. Nighttime chapters meet twice monthly, with additional sessions tailored to school schedules. Our programming centers on a New York State–based curriculum, guided by four key pillars: healthy relationships, self and community care, critical thinking, and confidence building.
We layer in additional programming that emphasizes the arts, environmental awareness, social justice, and career preparation — all aligned with our mission to create safe spaces where every child can dream, grow, and succeed. By providing opportunities, removing obstacles, and fostering a supportive community, we ensure each butterfly and dragonfly feels seen, valued, and heard.
In these chapters, every child’s voice matters, every contribution is celebrated, and every opportunity is a step toward realizing their full potential.
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