by Mike Matzinger
Larry Nikolaus was honored recently with the distinguished Service to Mankind Award, recognizing more than 20 years of exceptional volunteer service, mentorship, and leadership in the Colorado Springs community. Presented annually by the Gleneagle Sertoma Club, the award honors a non-member whose service has made a lasting impact toward the betterment of all.
Since moving to Colorado Springs in 1998, Nikolaus has exemplified servant leadership through his commitment to youth development, family, faith, and community service, most notably through his work with Scouting America. In 2003, he became Scoutmaster of Troop 194, a troop chartered by the Gleneagle Service to Mankind Club, and at a pivotal time of volunteer shortages, revitalized the program, transforming it into one of the region’s most respected troops. Over 22 years, Nikolaus mentored more than 250 Scouts, helped over 85 achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, and contributed approximately 15,000 volunteer hours. Under his leadership, Scouts completed impactful community projects—including trail construction, shelter building, and civic cleanups—benefiting thousands, while integrating outdoor education, leadership development, and civic engagement.
In 2023, Nikolaus also helped establish Troop 194 for girls, expanding opportunities for young women, and supported faith-based and international initiatives promoting global citizenship.
As noted by Gleneagle Sertoma Club President Larry Oliver, “Larry Nikolaus truly embodies Sertoma’s mission of Service to Mankind. His legacy of mentorship, compassion, and lifetime of service will shape youth, families, and our community for generations.”
https://gazette.com/2026/01/08/nikolaus-honored-with-service-to-mankind-award/