Community Awards

Photo of Vital Link recipients in the back of an ambulance
Quick action from members of the public can make the difference between life and death during a medical emergency.

​​​​​​​​Whether people perform bystander CPR, give critical information to dispatchers, or help paramedics at the scene, British Columbians play an important role in the health care system. 

To recognize these contributions, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) offers two community awards.

The Vital Link Award and the Good Samaritan Award honour individuals across the province. BCEHS paramedics, emergency medical dispatchers and supervisors usually nominate recipients to thank them for the exceptional help they provided during a medical emergency. 

The Community Awards program gives well-deserved recognition to members of the public. It also helps raise awareness about how bystander CPR and first aid can improve patient outcomes. 

Vital Link Award

The Vital Link Award recognizes citizens who help save a life through successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Good Samaritan Award

The Good Samaritan Award recognizes individuals who provide selfless and compassionate help during a medical emergency.