Larry Nikolaus was presented with the distinguished Service to Mankind Award, honoring over 20 years of volunteer service, mentorship, and leadership within the Colorado Springs community.

The award is presented annually by the Gleneagle Sertoma Club to an individual who is not a club member, whose community service impacts many toward the betterment of all.

Since moving to Colorado Springs in 1998, Nikolaus has set a standard of servant leadership through commitment to youth development, family, faith and community service. He has touched hundreds of young lives — most significantly through his work with the Boy Scouts of America.

In 2003, Nikolaus became scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 194, a troop chartered by the Gleneagle Service To Mankind Club to provide youth with structured programs focused on citizenship, responsibility, and self-reliance. At a pivotal time of volunteer shortages, Nikolaus revitalized the program, transforming Troop 194 into one of the region’s most respected troops.

Over 22 years, Nikolaus mentored more than 250 Scouts, helping over 85 achieve Eagle Scout rank. These Scouts completed community projects such as trail construction, shelter building and civic cleanups that benefited thousands. He has contributed around 15,000 volunteer hours and his leadership has integrated outdoor education and civic engagement into the troop’s activities.

Nikolaus also helped establish Troop 194-Girls in 2023, expanding opportunities for young women, and supported faith-based and international programs fostering global citizenship.

“Larry Nikolaus truly embodies Sertoma’s mission of Service to Mankind,” said club president Larry Oliver. “His legacy of mentorship and compassion and lifetime of service will shape youth, families and our community for generations.”

Gleneagle Sertoma meets the first and third Wednesdays for lunch program meetings and does hand-on service projects monthly as well. Interested individuals may contact Larry Oliver at lco69@icloud.com for details.