Burnaby psychologist Karen Tee was among the 14 honoured at the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards gala this week.
YWCA Metro Vancouver celebrated the leadership and achievements of extraordinary women at the 40th annual awards gala, held May 9 at Vancouver’s Westin Bayshore.
Among the 78 nominees across 12 categories, Tee was honoured in the Health and Wellness category. A psychologist and advocate for youth health, Tee helped launch Foundry BC, a province-wide network of integrated health and wellness services for people between the ages of 12 and 24.
With Tee’s leadership, the services network grew from a prototype into a province-wide sustained initiative rooted in public policy. It has supported over 30,000 youth struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues, providing primary care and social service support.
Tee, who serves as the network’s associate executive director, was also instrumental in initiating and expanding the Early Psychosis Intervention program for Fraser Health, which is now provided by all health authorities with provincial standards.
Her contributions also include helping lead and establish the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Stabilization Program at Surrey Memorial Hospital.
Each year, YWCA Metro Vancouver honours individuals and groups whose outstanding activities and achievements contribute to the well-being and future of our community. Since 1984, the organization has paid tribute to more than 352 award recipients and 2,100 nominees.
