An Interview with Eliza McKenney: Welcome Home & Welcome to MYC!

Director of Operations Mike Mallon sits down with new Waypoint Program assistant & Afterschool Program leader Eliza McKenney. Enjoy their conversation about the importance of role models, charting new courses, and coming home with a purpose. 

 

Mike: You’ve spent much of your life in this community. Tell us a little about yourself. 

Eliza: I grew up in Phippsburg and graduated from Morse High School before attending the University of Maine, where I studied Kinesiology and Outdoor Leadership. The outdoors has always been a huge part of who I am. Some of my favorite childhood memories are with my grandfather, who was always encouraging us to get outside, build forts, catch frogs, and explore. He rarely missed one of my sporting events growing up and taught me that growth often comes from trying things that feel a little uncomfortable. 

Those experiences shaped my love for adventure, learning, and helping young people discover what they’re capable of. 

Mike: What inspired you to devote your career to working with youth? 

Eliza: When I think about the people who made the biggest difference in my life, I think about adults who took the time to listen, encourage me, and help me believe in myself. My parents, grandfather, coaches, and community members all played roles. 

I know how important those relationships can be during middle school and high school. In many ways, I try to be the person I would have benefited from having in my own life at that age. Whether it’s at the Teen Center after school or out on the trail, I want young people to have a safe place where they feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to explore who they are and where they want to go. 

Mike: What excites you most about joining Midcoast Youth Center?  

Eliza: What excites me most is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with young people and be part of a team that truly believes every young person matters. 

Waypoint’s focus on leadership, life readiness, education, career exploration, and belonging aligns closely with my own values. I’m excited to help students discover opportunities beyond what they may have imagined, whether that’s exploring a career path, trying a new outdoor experience, building friendships and learning to trust one another, or connecting with adults in the community who can help guide them forward. 

At the teen center where all the action is after school, it’s great to be able to plug in and help students in our community with a snack, or help on a quiz, or a game of kickball. I’ve been enjoying the connection to all kids that MYC offers. 

Mike: As a first-generation college graduate, the Waypoint mission probably feels especially meaningful. Why is this work so important to you? 

Eliza: It absolutely does. Navigating college, careers, and life after high school can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re figuring things out for the first time. 

I’ve experienced how valuable it is to have someone who can answer questions, provide encouragement, and help you see what’s possible. What I love about Waypoint is that it helps remove barriers and expands young people’s understanding of their options. Every student deserves to know that their goals and aspirations are attainable. 

Also, equally important, is the emotional well-being of a young person. Confidence, healthy relationships, and a sense of belonging are often what help young people take those next steps successfully. 

Mike: You shared that you never expected to work in this field. How did you find your way here? 

Eliza: I originally thought I would become an athletic trainer because sports were such a big part of my life. I was a three-season athlete growing up and still love watching sports with my dad. 

As I moved through college and early career experiences, I realized the moments that felt most meaningful involved helping people grow, connect, and challenge themselves. After spending time outdoors, reflecting on what mattered most, and taking a few leaps of faith, I shifted toward outdoor education and youth development. 

Since then, I’ve continued to pursue opportunities that push me outside my comfort zone. One of my grandfather’s favorite sayings was, “Do something that scares you once a day.” I’ve carried that lesson with me ever since. 

Mike: What do you hope every young person experiences through Waypoint and the Teen Center? 

Eliza: I hope they feel connected, capable, and supported.