Meet Mackenzie — Future Meteorologist!

While talking about the weather may be idle small talk for most people, for our friend Mackenzie, it is the source of much passion and excitement! Mackenzie’s face lights up at the mention of a weather front or possible pop up thunderstorm, and she’s happy to share her own predictions and weekly forecasts. When we told her Ashley Dougherty of WTAE Pittsburgh wanted to invite her out the the studio, she was beside herself with anticipation. 
Mackenzie and her family drove down from Titusville early one morning to meet Ashley at WTAE studios before one of Mackenzie’s appointments at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Nervous about meeting a weather superstar, Mackenzie was rather quiet at first taking in every aspect. Ashley, ever warm and welcoming, greeted the family with hugs and some surprise swag, proceeded by a tour of her workplace. 
Mackenzie was in awe of the technology used in the studio (her second love after weather is buttons and gadgets!) and was fascinated when Ashley showed her how weather predictions actually happen! They spent some time in front of the green screen practicing their broadcast skills. Next time Mackenzie visits, they plan on recording her own (un-aired) weather segment… and they plan on having a green tablecloth handy to turn her into a floating head! 

Activity Kits

National Geographic Science Magic Kit

​Help 8-year-old Joe

Future Scientist

Get a science experiment kit to explore with his mentor!
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​Help 9-year-old Myla

Future Artist

Get art supplies to create with her mentor!
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Help 23-year-old Erik

Future Coffee Barista

Get coffee supplies to learn how to create specialty drinks with his mentor!

The pandemic showed many people what social isolation is really like. It also showed there are many other great ways to connect. That’s why we launched our activity kits. These mailed out packages provide fun activities for our mentors and kids/young adults to do together — virtually.

Reach Out to Us

Or contact Friendship@ConnectingChampions.org / 412.376.3755