2nd Annual Appalachian Stories of Resilience and Recovery Summit takes place at OUZ

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Appalachian Stories of Resilience and Recovery Summit at Ohio University Zanesville has brought people together to share their stories of strength, hope, and community connection.

The second annual summit on Thursday brought people together in person and virtually to discuss perspectives on recovery, resilience, and the power of community support.

“It’s extremely important. Anytime we get the opportunity to address trauma and to talk about recovery, it’s important. We know that recovery is a journey that everybody takes differently and so when we can come together and see people who are recovering and experiencing that with them and share their joy, gives everybody hope. You know, hope that they can do that too,” said Jamie McGrew, from Muskingum Area Mental Health and Recovery Services.

Richard Greenlee, the dean emeritus of Ohio University Eastern, was the keynote speaker at the event. He shared the struggles his family faced while growing up in severe poverty and the important roles that social workers play in people’s lives.

“…and I think that’s what’s interesting about this. People sometimes think, don’t believe this exists or people live like that,” Greenlee said. “And yet, there are several in that room who could relate very well to what I was talking about. And I think it’s important for society to know that there are a lot of people being left behind and we need to pay attention more. And we can start, I talked a lot about children because I believed the best success we can have is we should start with our young people.”

The Appalachian Stories of Resilience and Recovery also featured a lived experience panel with people who have recovered from addiction and mental health struggles. The event, highlighting the strength, perseverance, and recovery journeys of people throughout Appalachia, concluded with a networking lunch.