3 Bluebirds Farm

The 3 Bluebirds represent Erin’s three children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. An alarming new study shows that one in 31 children will have autism, and one in every 45 adults. “Marcus, our middle bluebird, was diagnosed with severe autism at age three," Erin shares. “Our family made the extremely difficult decision in July 2016 to place Marcus in assisted living due to his severe and dangerous aggression. He has adjusted relatively well, but our bumpy and bittersweet journey has made matters even more crystal clear; our nation as a whole is not doing enough for our adults with special needs.”

To provide a local resource, 3 Bluebirds Farm has created an environmentally sustainable agricultural community where individuals with autism can lead dignified and meaningful lives. It offers a range of programs tailored to different age groups:

• Camp Bluebird: A track-out and summer camp for children in grades K–8, focusing on social, play, and life skills through hands-on farm activities such as gardening and animal care.
• Social Clubs: Designed for teens and young adults, these clubs foster friendships and confidence in a supportive setting.
• Vocational Training: Adults on the spectrum can engage in meaningful work, from tending crops to caring for animals, building independence and purpose.

Erin O'Loughlin started 3 Bluebirds Farm to provide services for autistic individuals.

Social clubs help teens develop friendships and confidence while Camp Bluebird (below) gives children a chance to enjoy outdoor activities like horseback rides.

What sets 3 Bluebirds Farm apart is its vision for long-term residential living. The goal is to create a person-centered home where adults with autism can experience independence through meaningful work, recreation, and community involvement. Residents engage in farm chores, animal care, and gardening, supported by trained staff who understand their unique needs. This structure not only nurtures personal growth, but also offers a calming, therapeutic environment that many autistic individuals find beneficial.

The farm is also deeply committed to community education and involvement. It regularly invites volunteers to participate in farming activities and special events, helping to raise awareness and foster inclusion. Collaboration with local universities and schools provides internships, workshops, and support groups, expanding the farms’ impact beyond its borders.

Parents of children who attend the farm can often speak of its transformative effects. One father shared how his son’s vocabulary and social skills blossomed through his time at Camp Bluebird and expressed hope that his child may one day work on the farm as an adult. For many families, 3 Bluebirds Farm represents a rare and precious opportunity, a place where their loved one is not only accepted but celebrated.

Residents and campers interact daily with chickens, donkeys, horses, cats, and rabbits. These animals aren’t just part of the landscape; they are part of therapy. The calming rhythm of farm life helps individuals with autism spectrum disorder to flourish emotionally and socially.

3 Bluebirds Farm has fostered long-term relationships with financial institutions, joining TowneBank through a former relationship with Paragon Bank. They truly appreciate the personalized service they receive from a smaller community bank and from Craig Poms, senior vice president and commercial banker.

3 Bluebirds Farm primarily relies on contributions from corporations, private donors, and grants, recognizing that many families face financial challenges. They value TowneBank’s significant commitment to supporting nonprofit organizations. Erin says, “TowneBank has been a financial sponsor for quite a few of our events, and a very good sponsor. We are so grateful.” Some of these events include their annual black-tie ball, which features silent and live auctions of artwork created by their clients and professional artists. Tickets and sponsorships are still available for this year’s event, scheduled for November 8 at Prestonwood Country Club.

To celebrate Erin’s 50th birthday, the farm is also running a campaign to encourage 1,000 individuals to contribute $50 or more to help build a new facility. They are always on the lookout for both donations and volunteer support, especially during major events and on Saturday workdays when volunteers help with projects and share communal meals.

The farm's long-term vision is to establish a welcoming residential community where adults with autism can live with dignity, surrounded by nature and structure. This initiative addresses what Erin calls "the cliff" – the abrupt end of services after age 22. Plans are underway for a 7,000-square-foot multipurpose building, estimated at $2 million. This facility will generate additional revenue through public event rentals and offer employment opportunities for adults with autism, who will assist with event setup and service. It will also host adult day programs during weekdays, furthering vocational and life skills development. The versatile design will accommodate various functions, including farm-themed weddings, while supporting ongoing financial and operational planning.

In a world where services for autistic individuals often dwindle after childhood, 3 Bluebirds Farm stands as a beacon of hope. It’s a place where people can spread their wings, find purpose, and be part of a community that truly understands and supports them. You can learn more or get involved by visiting 3BluebirdsFarm.org.

3 Bluebirds Farm is nestled in 28 acres in Raleigh and children and teens with autism can connect and thrive while learning about life on a farm.