MARION COUNTY, FL (352today) – The Marion County Children’s Alliance (MCCA), in partnership with community leaders and community partners have launched the “Put Down the Phone Day” campaign, a countywide initiative encouraging residents to take a mindful break from their screens and reconnect with the world around them on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025.

The “Put Down the Phone Day” campaign seeks to raise awareness about the impact of excessive screen time on mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. The effort was born out of a focus group discussion held earlier this year by the MCCA, where members identified mental health, largely influenced by social media and screen use as the number one issue impacting youth.

Funded entirely through community donations, the campaign emphasizes moderation over elimination, helping individuals and families learn to use technology in healthier, more intentional ways.

“Our goal isn’t to villainize technology, it’s to help people start the conversation and bring awareness to this issue,” said Beth McCall, Executive Director, MCCA. “By putting down the phone, even for a few hours, we can reconnect with the people and moments that truly matter. This campaign is about strengthening families, supporting mental health, and building a more connected community.”

Residents can visit LookUpMarion.com to:

  • Take the pledge to Put Down the Phone on Nov. 15, joining others across Marion County in spending a few hours device-free.
  • Download free resources featuring everyday strategies for moderating phone use and building healthy digital habits.
  • Learn about events happening in the community on Nov. 15.

The campaign will continue throughout the fall, leading up to the Look Up Marion Summit on Dec. 3, where national speaker Mandee Hamann will present to educators, parents, health professionals, and community leaders to share insights, strategies, and stories about the importance of digital balance and mental well-being. Tickets to the Summit can be purchased here.

For more information, to take the pledge, or to download the guide, visit LookUpMarion.com and follow @LookUpMarion on social media.

About the Marion County Children’s Alliance

The Marion County Children’s Alliance (MCCA) is a nonprofit coalition of agencies, organizations, and community members working together to improve the lives of children and families in Marion County. Through collaboration, advocacy, and education, the Alliance focuses on issues impacting youth such as mental health, substance abuse prevention, child safety, and family support. MCCA connects resources, builds partnerships, and develops initiatives that promote a safer, healthier, and more supportive community for all children to thrive.