Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Doughty.
Sarah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always been driven by connection — between people, communities, and meaningful causes. My journey began with a focus on sustainable development and education, earning my Bachelor’s in International Studies from the University of North Texas and later a Master’s in Education from Johns Hopkins University, where I researched student access to community resources.
Early in my career, I worked with the Foundation for Sustainable Development and later with the U.S. Peace Corps, coordinating international programs that centered on education, health, and economic empowerment. Those years instilled in me a deep respect for grassroots collaboration and the power of local voices in driving long-term impact.
When I returned to the U.S., I served as a classroom teacher and community liaison, focusing on culturally responsive education and social-emotional learning. These experiences reinforced my belief that real change happens when individuals feel both supported and seen.
From there, I transitioned into nonprofit leadership — first as an Engagement Specialist with the American Red Cross, where I worked with hundreds of volunteers and youth clubs to build disaster preparedness and service-learning programs, and now as the Volunteer Services Manager at Frisco Family Services. In this role, I get to merge everything I’ve learned — strategic program design, education, and community engagement — to create meaningful opportunities for volunteers to directly impact local families in need.
At the heart of it all, my story is about fostering belonging and empowerment. Whether working with students, volunteers, or community partners, I’ve always sought to build programs that not only serve but also strengthen the human connections that make change sustainable.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like many people working in service and education, I’ve experienced challenges that required resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to grow through discomfort. Transitioning between international development, education, and nonprofit leadership meant constantly learning new systems, navigating change, and finding balance between compassion and structure.
One of the most meaningful parts of my journey has been overcoming personal challenges that strengthened my sense of purpose and discipline. That experience gave me a deeper understanding of what perseverance truly looks like — and how important it is to meet others with empathy, accountability, and grace.
Those lessons have influenced every aspect of my work. They’ve taught me how to lead with steadiness even in uncertain circumstances, how to build systems that support both people and progress, and how to recognize that growth often comes through challenge.
Ultimately, every difficulty has reinforced my belief in the power of service — that when we approach people and problems with both structure and compassion, we can create spaces for real, lasting change.
Looking back, the challenges have been just as formative as the successes. They helped me develop the resilience, perspective, and creativity I rely on every day to build programs that not only serve people, but also sustain those who serve.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my role as Volunteer Services Manager at Frisco Family Services, I connect people to meaningful work that directly strengthens our community. I specialize in creating volunteer experiences that are purposeful, organized, and deeply human — blending creativity, structure, and empathy in to our programs and activities.
I’m most proud of finding innovative ways to bring people together and translating my diverse background in education, international development, and community engagement into fresh, relevant approaches to service. I think I’m often known for being a calm in the storm — resourceful, solutions-oriented, and able to find clarity and even joy in the middle of complex situations.
What sets me apart is how I approach leadership with both playfulness and purpose. I believe that when people feel genuinely connected to the work they’re doing, it not only strengthens the mission — it transforms everyone involved.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that impact start withs presence. Whether working with a volunteer, a student, or a family in crisis, people remember how you made them feel more than what you accomplished. That understanding has shaped the way I approach every project — with empathy, calm, and creativity, even when things are unpredictable.
I’ve also learned that progress rarely follows a straight line. There are challenges, pivots, and moments that test your belief in what you’re building. But those moments have taught me the importance of resourcefulness — finding new ways forward when the old ones no longer fit — and the power of staying grounded in both purpose and playfulness.
Growth happens when you lead with both heart and adaptability. When you can meet change with curiosity instead of fear, the work — and the people — thrive.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssdoughty/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ssdoughty/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-doughty-46304b31/
