Who is OR Unplugged?

OR Unplugged is a a non-profit founded by pediatricians and educators whose goal is to provide safer more connective childhoods by limiting screentime and encouraging free play, independence, and time outside. Our work is a lot like planting a garden - we sow all sorts of seeds for change, from legislation to education, so that future generations can enjoy the flowers and fruits that come from spending less time online and more time with each other.

We are OR Unplugged

Kathy (she/her) lives in SW Portland. As a pediatrician, she served the medical needs of families in Pennsylvania and Oregon for nearly two decades. Out of her practice grew a special interest in preventing risky behavior in tweens/teens and the founding of Family Empowerment Network. She gave talks nationally, facilitated classes, and co-authored three parenting books (Raising Our Daughters/Sons and Face to Face). She has always been very passionate about protecting kids from the harms of screens, even when it was “just” TV. Kathy unplugs by biking, on-going learning, hanging out with her five grandchildren (12 yrs to <1 yrs), and co-hosting gatherings for friends and family, with her fabulous partner Chip.

Co-Founder

Director of Advocacy and Outreach
Director of Outreach

Co-Founder

Jody (she/her) lives on a houseboat across from Sauvie Island. She is a retired pediatrician who worked for 37 years in Neonatal ICUs in Portland, OR. She has co-authored three parenting books, and co-founded Medical and Educational Relief International Association (MERIA), Inc., a non-profit foundation that provides essential medical and educational services to vulnerable populations worldwide. Jody’s dream is creating life-serving relationships, institutions and communities that empower all children to thrive, to find joy, and to follow their dreams.  Jody unplugs by communing with nature, hiking, kayaking, nurturing her family and grandsons, traveling to remote corners of the world, and participating in way too many book groups.

Director of Educational Programs

Megan (she/her) lives in SE Portland and is the founder of Mindful Media. A certified digital wellness educator, she helps families establish healthy screen habits, with a focus on child development and making sure screen time isn't replacing the real life experiences kids and teens need to thrive.

During 25 years as a Suzuki Violin teacher, Megan saw first hand the new struggles devices have brought to parenting. She is passionate about protecting childhood and making sure parents have the research-based information they need to make healthy decisions about screen time. Megan has a teenage son, and unplugs by biking, reading, and sewing.

Co-Founder

Communications & Programs Manager

Simcha (he/they) lives in NE Portland. They bring years of customer service, social media, event planning, and admin experience to the OR Unplugged team! Simcha unplugs by making tiny clay dogs, fundraising for people and places important to him, playing at the park, and spending time with friends and his partner, Maevis.

Director of Development

Amy (she/her) is one of the newest members of the OR Unplugged team! Check back soon to learn more about her!

Casper Binnett

Book Keeper & Admin Assistant

Casper (he/him) is one of the newest members of the OR Unplugged team! Check back soon to learn more about him!

Selected Press

For press inquiries please reach out to us at hello@orunplugged.org