Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky has started a new program that is currently accepting applicants. Upstream Academy is a training curriculum that aims to teach Kentuckians how to educate their communities about child abuse. Jill Seyfred, Executive Director of PCAK, said Upstream will give successful applicants a stipend, show members how to utilize free local resources and venues, as well as provide PowerPoint workshops and professional headshots.
“Our goal is to have at least one person from each of Kentucky’s 120 counties trained in specific child abuse and neglect prevention efforts. And then that person will in turn train others,” said Seyfred.
After graduation, members are expected to host their own local community events to discuss the topics of fatherhood, abusive head trauma - previously known as shaken baby syndrome - and sexual abuse prevention.
Seyfred said one victim of child abuse is too much.
“We want to focus on the power of one. It just takes one adult to make the difference in the life of a child,” said Seyfred.
Upstream training classes will be held October 20 and 21 in Bowling Green and November 13 and 14 in Lexington. Interested parties should apply as soon as possible at pcaky.org.