Warren County Encouraged to Unplug and Reconnect

Mark your calendars! From 6:00 PM on Friday, March 7th, to 6:00 PM on Saturday, March 8th, the Warren Coalition is hosting “Warren County Unplugged,” a 24-hour event encouraging residents to disconnect from their devices and connect with the world around them. This local event, part of the Global Day of Unplugging, invites people to step away from screens and enjoy meaningful in-person interactions with family, friends, and the community.

The Global Day of Unplugging was created by Unplug Collaborative, a movement that promotes a healthier balance between technology use and real-world connections. According to the organization, excessive screen time can harm relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. While the goal of “Warren County Unplugged” is to go device-free for 24 hours, participants are welcome to set their own limits. Whether unplugging entirely or simply putting down their phones for part of the day, everyone is encouraged to take part.

Local businesses, organizations, and nonprofits are coming together to make unplugging fun and easy. Warren Coalition and its partners are organizing activities throughout the county, including a youth-focused kickoff event on Friday evening at the Health and Human Services Complex on 15th Street. This event will feature a cornhole tournament, 3-on-3 volleyball games, bingo, crafts, archery, and backyard games. Families can enjoy this variety of activities while leaving their devices behind.

On Saturday, Play Favorites will offer 10% off all purchases, along with free, screen-free activities such as chalk drawing, board games, and access to its arcade—where the air hockey, Skee ball, and toys will take center stage, but the screens will remain off.

More activities and promotions are being added weekly, with an online schedule set to be released in early February. Warren Coalition is calling for sponsors and prizes to support the event. Businesses can sponsor for $100 or $250, while smaller contributions, like $10-$25 gift cards or kid-friendly prizes, are also appreciated.

“This is a chance for the entire community to come together and rediscover the joy of face-to-face interaction,” said Celeste Brooks of the Warren Coalition. “Unplugging, even for a short time, can help us focus on the people and places around us.”

The Warren Coalition, a nonprofit founded in 1994, works to improve community health and combat substance abuse through a variety of programs and partnerships with over 15 local organizations. Businesses and organizations interested in sponsoring or hosting activities for “Warren County Unplugged” can contact Celeste Brooks at celeste@warrencoalition.org or 540-660-3367.

This March, take the challenge to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with the things that matter most.