Feeling Swell was started by the Barr brothers in 2015 as a small fundraising campaign. With the help of staff from a favorite local spot, Mueller’s Bakery, the first Feeling Swell t-shirt was sold to fundraise for a local family impacted by Superstorm Sandy. Seeing potential in the brand name, similar fundraising campaigns were launched until resolving on a cause that hits close to home: mental health and suicide prevention.
Brothers Eric and Brian fell into their respective roles within the brand; Eric being the creative mind, Brian focusing on growth and community development. Alec Mulder, a lifelong family friend, became the final piece of the puzzle and managed daily operations. Day by day, the Feeling Swell brand and cause grew.
After many setbacks, breakthroughs, and life lessons, Feeling Swell opened a shop and expanded its nonprofit out of a community space in Venice, California. In partnership with surf shops and boutiques around the country, Feeling Swell has raised over $100K for mental health and suicide prevention charities.
“Our focus for the future is to continue giving the members of our community reasons to smile. Reflecting on our growth, we’re humbled by the support from our community. To grow the community and share happiness with any number of people is why we’re here and why we’re here to stay. Here’s to plenty of joyous times ahead!”
-With love and gratitude, Eric B and the Feeling Swell team