The Rev. William Russell thinks downtown Gainesville could use a little less alcohol and a little more Jesus.
Bothered by what he calls “total immorality” throughout the Gainesville bar scene, Russell has started collecting donations for a $1.3 million, Christian-based nightclub in the downtown area.
“It has always been block-to-block alcoholic-serving bars,” Russell said. “We want to give an alternative to UF students and everyone else who frequents the downtown area.”
Club Glory, which Russell has tentatively named the facility, will be open to all who want to socialize and party alcohol-free. Teenagers, adults, college students, seniors and church groups are all welcome.
Russell said he hasn’t chosen a spot for the club, but he is wants to renovate a club that has been closed down for some time.
The club will have a dance room, indoor restaurants and rooms that serve multiple purposes.
Aside from being a nightclub, the facility will also offer counseling, financial and addiction services, HIV testing and crisis intervention, according to Russell.
He also plans to offer services that help people with depression or those who are unemployed due to injury.
Russell said he has received overwhelming support from not just his own congregation, but from churches and businesses around the state.
In just over one month, The Trinity Church of Gainesville has raised about $100,000 for the project.
He said he plans to hold fundraisers and raise all the necessary funds within a year.
“It can’t be anything but a win-win for the city of Gainesville,” Russell said. “We might even take the burden off some other places.”
There are also plans to open a food bank and clothing drop at the facility, according to Douglas Guntor, a member of the United Church of Gainesville.
The Rev. Wilbert Brozoski, a minister from Jacksonville who is contributing 25 percent of his income to the club, sees it as an opportunity for everyone to stay out of trouble and become closer to God.
