Marion County Commission Proclaims Nov. 15, as Look up, Marion, Put Down the Phone Day

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners has proclaimed Nov. 15, 2025, as Look Up Marion, Put Down the Phone Day to encourage residents to take a break from screens and reconnect with family, friends, and their community.

The initiative was inspired by the Marion County Children's Alliance, whose mission is to improve the lives of children throughout the county. Established in 2000, the Alliance brings together organizations that serve children to collaborate on youth and family issues affecting the community.

In 2025, the Children's Alliance and its partner agencies identified excessive social media use and screen time as growing concerns affecting the mental health and overall well-being of children and youth. Research shows that children ages 8 to 18 spend an average of 7.5 hours per day in front of screens, not including time spent on schoolwork.

While digital media can support learning and social connection, excessive use has been linked to poor sleep, obesity, delayed social and learning skill development, academic struggles, behavioral issues, and increased risks associated with online predators and cyberbullying.

By proclaiming Look Up Marion, Put Down the Phone Day, county commissioners encourage all residents to participate by spending quality, unplugged time with loved ones and friends. The day serves as a reminder to prioritize personal connections and mental health in an increasingly digital world.

Beth McCall of the Marion County Children's Alliance said, "This was definitely a committee venture and there is nothing else going on like this in the country. We encourage all of you, whether you have children or grandchildren, to put down your phones on Nov. 14, and be with your loved ones."

Together, Marion County residents can take a stand for children, health, and community, one unplugged moment at a time.