Omar Butler (he/him) is the Chief Executive Officer of New Door Ventures, which prepares young people for economic mobility through paid work experience, academic support, and individualized mentorship. With offices in San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose, New Door Ventures partners with youth ages 17-24 who are disconnected from – or only loosely connected to – school and employment. Their programs provide the structure, relationships, and real-world experience needed for youth to pursue self-directed futures.
Omar joined New Door Ventures in 2019 and has led the organization through a period of growth and transformation, including a strategic redesign and expansion into new cities. Prior to joining New Door Ventures, he was the Regional Executive Director of College Track in Northern California and Chief of Programs for the Harlem Educational Activities Fund in New York City. Omar grew up in San Franciso’s Hunters Point neighborhood. As a teen, he joined the Omega Boys Club – a mentoring program that changed his life – and became the first in his family to earn a college degree. “Each day, I see young people walk into New Door Ventures unsure of their potential – and leave with a new sense of confidence, skills, and opportunity,” says Omar. “My engagement in this field is not just professional; it is personal, mission-driven, and deeply connected to my own journey.” For his work and dedication, Omar has been awarded as a KQED Local Hero and State Farm Good Neighbor.
During his O2 sabbatical, Omar plans to “slow down, spend meaningful time with my family, and reconnect with passions that have taken a back seat to work in recent years.” He sees this opportunity for essential rest and renewal as vital for him to recharge and guide New Door Ventures through its next chapter with clarity and focus.