Our story
A sanctuary for animalsand people.
What started as a rescue mission became a place of healing — for animals and the humans who need them.
200+
Animals rescued
110+
Animals in our care
2,500+
Guests welcomed
501(c)(3)
Nonprofit since 2024
We didn't plan to build a sanctuary. The animals just kept arriving — and so did the people who needed them.
How it started
From rescue to retreat
Blue Iris Farm began in 2020 with a simple belief: that animals in need deserve a second chance, and that people do too. What started as a small rescue operation on 114 acres in Lebanon, CT has grown into a full sanctuary and retreat center.
In 2024, we became an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit — a milestone that reflects years of community trust, dedicated volunteers, and the animals who made this place what it is.
What we believe
Our mission & values
Blue Iris Farm is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to rescuing neglected and abused farm animals and providing transformative experiences for people through connection with animals and nature. We create a safe space for both animals and humans to recover, reconnect, and thrive — emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
Vision
A world where every animal is treated with dignity, and every person has access to the healing power of nature and animals.
Every animal deserves safety
We provide a safe, non-judgmental haven where animals and guests alike are free to rest, recover, and be themselves.
Healing through connection
We believe in the transformative power of human-animal connection for emotional, spiritual, and physical wellbeing.
Rooted in the land
Our 114-acre farm is a living classroom — a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and remember what matters.
The people behind the farm
Meet our team
Founder & Executive Director
Jamie Collins
Jamie founded Blue Iris Farm Rescue & Retreat with a vision to create a sanctuary where rescued animals and people could heal together. Her passion for animal welfare and community drives everything we do.
Executive Director
Dennis Badlyans
Dennis oversees the daily care of our rescued herd, manages farm operations, and ensures every animal receives the attention and love they deserve. He also serves as the farm's full-stack web designer, SEO strategist, and marketer.
Programs Director
Katelyn Sehl
Katelyn designs and leads our community programs — from school field trips to therapeutic retreats — creating meaningful connections between people and animals.
Come experience the farm
Whether you want to walk with the herd, join a retreat, or support our rescue mission — there's a place for you here.