Marshall County Leader Selected for Statewide Child Abuse Prevention Training Program
(BENTON, Ky.) — A Marshall County changemaker will join prevention leaders from across Kentucky in a comprehensive training program aimed at stopping child abuse before it starts.
Tammy Blackwell has been selected to represent Marshall County in the 2025 Upstream Academy, a statewide initiative launched by Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky (PCAK), the Commonwealth’s leading child abuse and neglect prevention organization.
The Upstream Academy trains community leaders to implement “upstream solutions” — interventions that address root causes of child maltreatment before crises occur. With thousands of Kentucky families affected by child abuse and neglect annually, the program represents a proactive approach to child safety.
“Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment,” Blackwell said. “Upstream Academy is equipping me with the tools to make that vision a reality in Marshall County and beyond.”
Participants are selected based on their community commitment and leadership potential. Over several months, they receive strategic training, connect with prevention leaders statewide, and learn from PCAK’s more than 35 years of experience in the field.
“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.”
The program draws participants from across Kentucky, from Paducah in the west to Pikeville in the east, creating a network of trained prevention advocates throughout the Commonwealth.
Funding for the Upstream Academy came from the 2024 state budget. PCAK Executive Director Jill Seyfred praised the General Assembly’s support, calling the funding “a critical investment” that demonstrates Kentucky’s commitment to prioritizing child abuse prevention.
PCAK’s mission centers on building safer systems, stronger communities, and more resilient families across Kentucky.
More information about the Upstream Academy and Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky is available at www.pcaky.org.
