2008: OFS Participant Jordan Sharlow receiving the Dane County Court's Outstanding Achievement Award from Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson and Judge William Hanrahan

Operation Fresh Start has been recognized both locally and nationally for its service and training program. The agency, its participants, volunteers, and staff have received the following recent awards:

• 2009 - Dane County Neighborhood Intervention Program, Joe Thomas Positive Image Award to Deputy Director Jim Sanders for significant contributions to families
• 2008 - United Way Community Volunteer Award to Mentor Paula West Kaplan
• 2008 - Dane County Juvenile Court Outstanding Achievement Award to participant Jordan Sharlow
• 2008 - Governor's Juvenile Justice Commission, "Tony Maggiore" Award to participant Tyler Miller
• 2007 - Dane County Juvenile Court Outstanding Achievement Award to participant Travis Weisensel
• 2006 - Governor's Volunteer Service Award to Volunteer Mentor David J. Lehrer
• 2005 - Executive Director Connie Ferris Bailey named YWCA Woman of Distinction
• 2004 - Wisconsin Association of Child & Youth Care Professionals Program of the Year
• 2002 - Wisconsin Community Service Award
• 2000 - Executive Director Connie Ferris Bailey received National Governor's Association "Distinguished Service to State Government" Award
• 2000 - Governor's Workforce Innovation Award
• 1999 - Dane County Juvenile Court Outstanding Service Award
• 1998 - Governor's Replication Initiative
• 1997 - Wisconsin Power & Light Partners in Conservation Award
• 1993 - Department of Labor - Exemplary Summer Youth Program
• 1993 - President's Volunteer Action Award
• 1990 - American Medical Association National Congress on Adolescent Health Award
• 1986 - Governor's Employment and Training Award