The celebration of 30 years of Brikhof in Borgloon provided an opportunity to reflect on the evolution of the residential community since the first residents and staff moved in thirty years ago. What began as an adventurous start with unfinished infrastructure has grown into a warm home where residents, families, staff, and volunteers are closely connected.
Tania and Inge, staff members who experienced the early years, shared their memories of the challenging beginnings, where wheelchairs navigated cobblestones and muddy paths were the norm. The paving of driveways and entrances was yet to be done, but despite these practical hurdles, great enthusiasm prevailed from day one. Brikhof, the first new campus after Zonhoven to open from Campus Genk in 1971, became a place where everyone collectively built a sense of home.
Over the years, a strong sense of family developed. Residents, staff, and parents got to know each other well and became involved in campus life. This connection also extended to the local community. Good relationships with neighbors, the Patton Drivers (an association of military vehicle enthusiasts), local associations from Hoepertingen and Borgloon, and many volunteers contributed to the campus's development. Mayor Freddy Feytons and his successor son Jo also built a strong bond with Brikhof.
A prime example of this inclusive collaboration is the bond with Het Appelmanneke primary school in Hoepertingen. Children participated in sports and sensory activities at Brikhof, while residents were involved in school events like the school fair and Sinterklaas celebrations. These interactions, such as the joy Jean-Marie experienced dancing with children, highlight that Brikhof is an integral part of the local community.
The annual Christmas market, once initiated by staff, parents, and associations, grew into a well-known event requiring weeks of preparation. From making floral arrangements to cooking jam, everyone worked together to create a festive event. Activities like participating in Micromix, where residents won prizes, and the legendary Sinterklaas evenings also contributed to lasting memories. Even the temporary presence of a horse at Mariagaarde, arranged through Freddy Feytons, is part of the unique stories.
Parental involvement was crucial from the start. They assisted with maintenance, donated plants, and contributed ideas for the living environment. Families like the Lux family, with Bart known as the joker, and the Langendries family, who organized meeting events, strengthened social ties. For some, like Gerda, Magali's mother, Brikhof is a familiar anchor point where her daughter feels at home.
Residents like Dirk, Ivo, Patrick, and Jean-Marie have lived there for thirty years. Previously, Dirk, Ivo, and Patrick were known as 'De Romeo's' for their performances. Today, the pace is slower, but shared memories remain. Residents' needs evolve, and Brikhof adapts, accommodating a need for peace and individual choices.
The Patton Drivers have been visiting the campus for 29 years to offer rides to residents, a tradition that has evolved into a story of friendship. Volunteer Johan, who has known resident Wouter's father for forty years, consciously chose to spend time with people rather than drive during the celebration. These encounters, often wordless, form the core of the tradition.
The organization of the 30th anniversary itself also brought many people together. Team coach Sylvie highlighted the enthusiasm and helpfulness of colleagues, volunteers, and external partners like the Patton Drivers and the fanfare Hoop in de Toekomst. The celebration featured music, activities like a bouncy castle and folk games, and a photo projection on Brikhof's history.
The photos from the day show what was visible, but not what was felt. 30 years of Brikhof is best understood as a place filled with encounters, friendships, care, and memories, where people find each other and continually feel a sense of coming home.
