A New Chapter Begins at the Historic Old Hernando School: Club Recovery Celebrates Grand Opening

This past Saturday, I had the privilege of joining a small delegation from our school district to attend a truly uplifting event, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Club Recovery of Citrus County, Inc. at the newly revitalized Old Schoolhouse Community Center in Hernando. Our delegation included several Citrus County School Board members, District Director Darrick Buettner and his mother, as well as a number of community leaders and volunteers who came together to celebrate this meaningful milestone.

The event began with a heartfelt opening prayer from Bishop Doug Alexander, whose words reminded us of the power of hope, healing, and community. Shortly after, the ceremonial ribbon was cut, marking the official launch of this new chapter for Club Recovery. The moment was made even more powerful by the presence of the Club Recovery Trustees and the many volunteers who brought this project to life.

Club Recovery of Citrus County [https://clubrecovery.org/] has been a beacon of support in our area for more than a decade, offering 12-step meetings and a safe, sober environment for those on the path to recovery. Now, under a lease agreement with Citrus County, the group has a permanent home at the historic Hernando School. This revitalized building will now serve as a recovery-based community center, offering understanding, fellowship, and hope to all who walk through its doors.

I was fortunate to be welcomed personally by Club Recovery President Bill Antonen, who gave me a generous and inspiring tour of the restored space. Walking through the old classrooms, now repurposed for Club Recovery’s programming, I felt an overwhelming sense of nostalgia. The hardwood floors, high ceilings, and enduring architecture tell a story of their own. But more importantly, these rooms now have a new mission: to support individuals and families through recovery, one step at a time.

The vision to renovate the Old Hernando School and relocate Club Recovery there came from within, specifically from the Club Recovery Trustees themselves. Trustee and local journalist Mike Wright shared the backstory, describing the project as a labor of love that will serve not only those in recovery but the wider community as well. His passion for the mission, and for this building’s renewed purpose, was evident in every word.

There is something powerful about seeing a historic place like the Old Hernando School reimagined in such a meaningful way. Built in 1941 and 1942 as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the school was designed by renowned architect Henry L. Taylor, who is best known for the iconic Vinoy Hotel in St. Petersburg. Taylor’s signature Colonial Revival style is on full display here, especially in the grand auditorium. Towering windows bathe the space in natural light, offering a sense of openness and grace that feels especially fitting for the work that will happen here.

Over the decades, the Old Hernando School has seen periods of activity, decline, and restoration. But Saturday’s celebration marked more than just a reopening. It marked a rebirth. It reminded all of us that buildings can have second lives, just like the people Club Recovery serves. And when the community comes together with shared purpose, we can breathe new life into old spaces and new hope into people’s lives.

Congratulations to Club Recovery, its Trustees, and every volunteer and supporter who helped make this vision a reality. Citrus County is stronger because of your commitment, and the Historic Old Hernando School is once again alive with purpose.

Thank you for letting me be part of such a meaningful day.

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