Bark, an Atlanta-based company known for its technology to address cyberbullying and signs of depression in children, has announced a partnership with Our Place, a local disability support platform. The collaboration aims to extend online safety protections specifically to the disability community.
Recent data highlights that children with disabilities experience higher rates of cyberbullying compared to their peers. Megan Cortjens, executive director of Our Place, said: “US data shows that kids with disabilities face higher rates of cyberbullying than their peers. They also are a very vulnerable population that can be taken advantage of financially.” She added, “By Our Place partnering with Bark we can now let families and caregivers know about a platform that can help them be aware of any type of bullying, financial abuse and so much more.”
The partnership will focus on supporting gradual independence rather than imposing digital restrictions. According to Cortjens, many parents want their children with disabilities to develop independent life skills, and access to technology is seen as essential for this growth.
Bark’s products include software as well as phones, watches, and parental control devices for home internet use. These tools are designed to allow phased exposure to technology. Cortjens explained: “The Bark phone allows parents to come up with a plan on technology exposure. Using the bark phone they can start by allowing access to calls, then maybe text messages then maybe social media. They gain independence while also knowing their child is safe online.”
She further stated: “A successful partnership between Join Our Place and Bark would focus on education and empowerment, not just protection. At its core, the partnership would help parents in the disability community build greater knowledge of internet and technology safety, while also giving them tools to support their child in developing independent life skills online.”
The initiative will offer educational content and practical guidance for families navigating digital risks. The aim is for individuals with disabilities to participate safely in online spaces while building independence over time.
Cortjens summarized the goal: “Ultimately, the goal is to help families move from fear and uncertainty to confidence, safety, and independence, ensuring individuals with disabilities can participate fully and safely in today’s digital world.”
In a video interview available on Our Place’s website, Cortjens spoke with Adam Brooks, Bark Program Director. Brooks discussed how Bark monitors concerning behavior online and helps prevent exploitation while supporting caregivers introducing technology at an appropriate pace for each individual’s maturity level.
