The Hon. Norman Kwong created the Lieutenant Governor’s Leadership for Active Communities Award to recognize the achievements of individuals and groups who are leading community change in the areas of active living, recreation and sport. This focus was a natural extension of Hon. Kwong's lifelong love of sport and his celebrated career with the Canadian Football League.

The program is administered by the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association and operates separate from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Public nominations are accepted.

The first awards were presented at a ceremony in Edmonton in May 2009. At the event, Hon. Kwong said: “I’m honoured to be able to present these first awards to some truly great citizens and community leaders who are doing so much to encourage their fellow Albertans to take a more balanced, active and healthy approach to life. I certainly hope this program will encourage others to follow their lead.”