LEWISBURG — Susquehanna Valley Mediation’s Families in Recovery program will host a recovery workshop panel with speakers who will share their personal stories to foster a deeper understanding of addiction and recovery.The event will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. May 27 at the Village Common at Buffalo Valley Lutheran Village, 6 Tressler Blvd. Light refreshments will be provided.The panel is a two-hour discussion workshop intended to strengthen participants’ understanding of addiction, the recovery process and other challenges faced by so many in the community. The workshop will also give service providers the chance to engage in open and honest discussions with six panel speakers who have lived experience of addiction, recovery, incarceration, mental health crises and Children & Youth Services interactions."Through our weekly Families in Recovery support group, we have witnessed the profound impact of people in recovery sharing their stories, answering difficult questions, and offering hope to those still struggling," Families in Recovery Program Director Shawnee Robel said. "We believe this same approach can be equally valuable for those of us who work with and support individuals facing substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and reintegration after incarceration.”Robel added, "By creating a space where real conversations can take place, we hope to strengthen the connections between service providers, community organizations and the individuals we serve. We don't want to just talk about the problem but move toward a solution through greater understanding and transparency.”— JUSTIN STRAWSER