About Us
Our Story
Mind Your Melon Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for and supporting the mental health of farmers, ranchers, and farm families. Founders Marshal and Taylor Sewell recognized a significant and often unspoken need after experiencing firsthand the stress, loss, and grief that can accompany life in agriculture. In response, they committed themselves to researching farm stress, raising awareness, and sharing relevant mental health and wellness resources within their agricultural community.
Over time, their work revealed the widespread and complex nature of farmer mental health challenges. What began as a local effort has grown into a broader mission informed by observation, research, and collaboration at the state and national levels.
Although their advocacy efforts began years ago, the formal vision for the Foundation took shape with the establishment of its 501(c)(3) status in 2024. Marshal and Taylor were intentional in refining the organization’s strategy and long-term vision before seeking nonprofit designation. Upon receiving 501(c)(3) status, Mind Your Melon formed an industry-led Board of Directors composed of respected agricultural leaders—many of whom also have personal connections to farmer wellbeing.
From the outset, the Foundation prioritized an evidence-based approach. Through a strategic partnership with the University of Florida Center for Leadership and the Florida Farm Bureau Federation, Mind Your Melon designed and deployed the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey—the first initiative of its kind in the state of Florida. This foundational research now serves as a data-driven framework to guide meaningful programs, resources, and outreach efforts.
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Melon Mike & His Not-So-Fun Feelings Reached 200+ Students This Year
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Addressed Farmer Mental Health and Wellbeing With Over 5,000+ Individuals
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Reached 673 Podcast Listens and 3,985 All- Time Plays
