From her role as the City of Vancouver’s first child care co-ordinator to being one of the key players in creating the non-profit Vancouver Society of Children's Centres (VSOCC), Penny Coates epitomizes the kind of dedication being honoured throughout B.C.

Whether in the classroom, in the stadium, on TV or online, the Be More Than a Bystander message is spreading to young people throughout the province who are learning what they can do to break the silence on violence against women and girls.

A new $250,000, 18-month pilot program is being launched by the Ministry of Children and Family Development and the YWCA Metro Vancouver to help youth who are transitioning out of government care to gain the life and work skills they need to become independent.

The adoption community in Metro Vancouver will take part in an exciting kick-off to Adoption Awareness Month today at BC Place Stadium, courtesy of the BC Lions

Thousands of tiny purple caps will soon be delivered to birthing hospitals across the province. It's part of an annual campaign to help raise awareness for the Period of PURPLE Crying program, an educational program for new parents which teaches them how to deal with infant crying, especially inconsolable crying.

The Province announced funding totalling $18.4 million to support ongoing research and grassroots projects that will benefit individuals and families facing mental illness and substance use challenges.

A $160,000 grant will support the anti-violence program, Be More Than a Bystander, a groundbreaking partnership with the BC Lions Football Club and the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC).

The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal was presented to 10 British Columbians in recognition of their significant contributions and service to fellow citizens.