Jasper lives on in the chapel of the Hoorn Mission House, thanks to his sisters

You can not ignore it. Jasper is everywhere in the chapel of the Mission House on the Blauwe Berg in Hoorn. In a life-size photo, a stained glass image, a work of art and in other photos. One thing is certain: Jasper will not soon be forgotten. “He’s watching from above,” says Nina, pointing to his image. “Literal.”

Last September, a tragic accident on a care farm led to an early end to his life. The death leaves a big hole within the family and sows doubt in the plans for the future. “My sister Daphne already worked at Brownies&downieS in Alkmaar and Jasper also worked there. Why don’t we open a branch ourselves?” was the idea.

In the catering industry, people with disabilities work in a regular company. You can drink coffee, eat brownies and there is also an evening menu. Jasper couldn’t wait to start working there too, but that didn’t happen. After a few months of mourning and doubt, determination emerged: Brownies&downieS in Hoorn had to be created. “This is a way for us to kind of keep him alive. This way people can still get to know him.”

Learned a lot from Jasper

They like to talk about Jasper. “He was super social, open to everyone. To him, everyone was equal. He also taught us a lot in that regard.” The staff also includes some of Jasper’s acquaintances. “Including his best friend, Daan. That is very nice. They can also talk about him. This way he remains part of the company.”

So today is the festive opening, despite the sad history. Mixed feelings, but Nina and Daphne are looking forward to the adventure. And the approval from above? They’ve already got them.