Dr. Sarah Pitts is a powerhouse of purpose. A proud Detroit native and founder of Michigan Employment Training Plus (MET PLUS), she has made it her life’s mission to uplift the overlooked, especially the elderly and youth, through innovative programming, advocacy, and unwavering community leadership. From mentoring Girl Scouts to championing senior citizen initiatives as a member of Top Ladies of Distinction, Dr. Pitts wears many hats — wife, mother, entrepreneur, mentor, and faith-driven change agent.
Guided by her background in Human Resources Management and a Doctorate in Leadership Management, Dr. Pitts blends strategy with service to create a tangible impact. Whether helping grandparents care for their grandchildren, mentoring teenage girls, or providing essential resources through MET PLUS, she shows up with grace, intention, and vision. In this SwagHer Magazine feature, Dr. Pitts opens up about what drives her, how she balances it all, and her bold dreams for a revitalized Detroit — one act of service at a time.
How do you balance being a wife, mother, entrepreneur, mentor, and community leader?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: I embrace grace over perfection. I prioritize purpose, keep my faith at the center, and I’ve learned to ask for help when I need it. Balance doesn’t mean doing everything at once — it means doing the right thing at the right time with intention. Most importantly, I remember I can do nothing without GOD.
What drew you to work closely with the elderly and youth populations?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: Both groups are often overlooked. Seniors carry wisdom but often feel invisible. Teens are bursting with potential, but they often lack direction. I saw a gap and knew we could bridge it — with love, structure, and empowerment.
What makes a program truly effective and impactful?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: Programs work when people feel seen. You need cultural relevance, measurable goals, and heart. We build programs that address needs while honoring dignity. That’s how change takes root.
How has your education in Leadership Management and HR influenced your community work?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: It taught me that leadership is less about control and more about stewardship. I use what I learned to structure programs that empower both our staff and participants to grow with accountability and purpose.
Can you share a moment where you saw MET PLUS’s impact firsthand?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: Wow, I see it every day! I will never forget the smile on a grandmother’s face when we provided furniture, food, and shoes for her grandchildren. She said, “You made me feel like I’m not alone.” That’s why we do this. There have been countless community initiatives where I’ve wanted to cry from the excitement of parents and youth. Some can never afford the resources we provide, whether through our services or community giveaways.
How do your roles in organizations like Girl Scouts and Top Ladies of Distinction complement your work with MET PLUS?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: They reinforce my belief in service, leadership development, and sisterhood. Those networks fuel my community work and remind me that collaboration is key to systemic change.
What motivates you to keep pushing for change in Detroit?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: My children. Our seniors. The families who need a lifeline. I see potential in every block of every city. And we believe in building a Detroit that our children can inherit with pride.
How do you envision the future of MET PLUS?
Dr. Sarah Pitts: I see senior villages filled with life, youth centers buzzing with creativity, and families equipped with real resources. I see a Detroit where hope is restored for those undeserved, and MET PLUS is leading the charge.
Learn more by visiting https://www.metplus.org/
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