KCET's education and community outreach division has been recognized as a model of public television's commitment to community engagement. From preschool programs through adult education, KCET provides people of all ages with stimulating and engaging learning opportunities through diverse and innovative television programming, print and online resources, professional development, family education and a variety of multilingual community services.

As part of our ongoing commitment to the diverse communities in Southern California,  KCET, in collaboration with Union Bank, launched the annual Local Heroes Awards in celebration of national commemorative heritage months. The awards honor exemplary community leaders who strive to enrich the lives of others, and whose tireless contributions are inspiring hope in the minds and hearts of future generations. The year-long program introduces diverse local heroes to viewers on-air and online, and culminates in October when all of the honorees are formally recognized as part of the Local Heroes Awards: Diversity Celebration.  Over the past decade, KCET has showcased the remarkable stories of over 150 leaders.