questions
FAQ
The things people ask us most. If your question isn't here, write to us — we answer everything.
When was Descreened founded?
Descreened was founded on February 12, 2025.
Who founded Descreened?
Descreened was founded on February 12, 2025, by Ahmed Farooqui and Atharva Naveen.
Who runs Descreened?
Students. Descreened was founded in Dallas, Texas on February 12, 2025 by Ahmed Farooqui and Atharva Naveen, and every chapter is led by a student executive team. There is no adult staff.
The founding team and each chapter's leadership are listed on the leadership page.
Are you against technology?
No. We're not against tech — we're about learning when to step away from it. The goal is balance: using technology on purpose, and making more room for people, sleep, sport and hobbies offline.
Is any of this paid?
No. Every guide, kit, printable, and workshop we publish is free, and it stays free. We are not selling an app, a subscription, or a screen-time product.
How do I start a chapter in my city?
Apply through the chapter leader form. You will need a small team, a school or community space to run activities in, and a willingness to commit for at least a school year.
We will help with materials, a page on this site, and the programme other chapters have already tested.
Do I have to be a certain age to join?
Most of our members are between 13 and 18. There is no hard cutoff, but chapter leaders under 16 may need parental approval to run in-person events.
Where do the numbers on this site come from?
Every figure we publish is collected on our impact page. Four executive consultants monitor our work, including a licensed professional counselor and a licensed psychologist.
If a number cannot be sourced, we do not publish it.
Can I donate or sponsor something?
Yes. Supplies for our screen-free kits — crayons, colored pencils and coloring books — are always welcome, and businesses and community groups can support our events and projects such as the STEM boxes we are building with FTC Vanguard Robotics.
Email us at descreened01@gmail.com and we'll tell you what's needed right now.
Can I earn volunteer hours?
Yes. We offer certified volunteer hours to students who help design screen-free booklets, edit video, create content or run events, and several chapters count club activities toward volunteer hours. Ask your chapter, or email us for details.
Is Descreened a counseling or crisis service?
No. Descreened is run by students, and our messages and DMs are not monitored around the clock. We can point you toward resources, but we can't provide counseling.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in danger, call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US), or contact your local emergency number.
Can my school work with you?
Yes. Chapters run workshops, seminars, and kit distributions with schools and community centres. Email us and we will connect you with the nearest chapter, or help you start one.
What do you do with my data if I apply?
We collect only what the application asks for, only the executive team can see it, and we delete it after twelve months unless you join. Full detail is on the privacy page.
still curious? come build with us!