2012 - The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Thailand honored Fr. Joe at its annual awards ceremony. The award recognizes national heroes who have the courage to stand up and fight for the rights of those who cannot fight for themselves.

2009 - Father Joe named Child Protection Ambassador to Thailand 2009 in an award ceremony at Thai Parliament House and presented by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejiajiva. Father Joe is the first foreign resident ever to receive this honorary title.

2004 - Lifetime achievement awarded to Father Joe Maier by Her Majesty the Queen of Thailand for HDF programs in the field of protection of mothers and children. Fr. Joe was given the award as the foreign resident who, “over the long-term, has contributed the most to the promotion of the status and protection of women and children in Thailand.”

2004 - Outstanding Citizenship for social work and community development in the field of HIV/AIDS, awarded by the Red Cross AIDS Research Centre and presented by Her Royal Highness Princess Soamsavali Phravorarajatinuddamatu.

1999 - Koman Kim Tong Foundation Award for outstanding citizenship

1998 - Special Achievement Award presented to HDF from National Council of Thailand for Child Development

1997 – ESCAP HRD Award as best NGO among 41 Asian nations, based on the quality and sustainability of HDF programs and its positive impact on the community.

1997 - Fr. Joe receives the “Shining Diamonds of Bangkok” award given by the Governor of Bangkok for outstanding citizenship.

1994 - Justice & Peace Award, Redemptorist Order Denver

1989 - National Housing Authority of Thailand recognizes HDF housing as provider of model homes for low-income communities throughout Thailand - a series of designs that are followed throughout the provinces to this day

1985 – Fr. Joe receives Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand, Fifth Class