Katie Dykes selected to represent Warren Co. in child abuse prevention academy

WARREN COUNTY, Ky. – Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky is congratulating Katie Dykes on being selected to represent Warren County in the 2025 Upstream Academy.

According to Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky, the Upstream Academy is designed to prepare concerned Kentuckians with knowledge, tools and technical assistance to lead solutions to address challenges before they become crises.

Officials say child abuse and neglect impacts thousands of families each year, making the work urgent.

“Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment. Upstream Academy is equipping me with the tools to make that vision a reality in Warren County and beyond,” Dykes said. “I’m honored to be part of a movement that believes in building safer futures from the ground up.”

Participants for the academy are selected for their commitment to making a difference in their communities and their readiness to lead, officials say.

For several months, those selected will take part in strategic learning, statewide collaboration and prevention-focused training guided by PCAK.

“We know prevention works, and we know it begins with strong local leadership,” said Amanda Clark, Upstream Academy coordinator at PCAK. “Through Upstream Academy, we’re investing in the people who are ready to take action and lead change in every corner of our state.”

PCAK says it is Kentucky’s leading child abuse prevention organization rooted in “its commitment to building safer systems, stronger communities and more resilient families.”

According to officials, the academy was possible thanks to funding allocated in the 2024 state budget.

“We are incredibly grateful for this investment, which has allowed us to launch this critical initiative,” said PCAK executive director Jill Seyfred. “We appreciate the General Assembly’s commitment to making the prevention of child abuse and neglect a priority in Kentucky.”

To learn more about the Upstream Academy and Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky, visit pcaky.org.