2025 Manni Awards

One of the special things about Manitou Springs is our community’s willingness to help. This is evidenced throughout all demographics of our town—at the personal level all the way up to our local government and nonprofits. Our collaborative spirit is demonstrated in the way important social institutions of the city work together and come together. It is rare to find a town in which the city government, school district, chamber of commerce, local newspaper, local arts organizations, citizens, businesses, nonprofits and even the local philanthropic foundation work together to acknowledge the people who go out of their way to help others and make the town better.

But that’s exactly what the Manni Awards do. Once a year, Manitou Springs has a celebration and potluck dinner to recognize community leaders, volunteers, and champions who have given outstanding service and demonstrated their ability to collaborate and inspire others to manifest Manitou’s community vision. The sponsors of this year’s Manni Awards are the Manitou Springs City Government; Visit Manitou Springs; Manitou Springs School District 14; Pikes Peak Bulletin; Creative Alliance Manitou Springs (CRANE); and the Manitou Springs Community Foundation.

Each year, the awards committee asks the public for nominations of people who are making a positive difference in their neighborhood and town. They look at what has been accomplished in the last years by residents, businesses, and employees. Who, through volunteering their time and talent, going above and beyond, have made Manitou a better place because of their selfless service.

The Manni Awards are given in 10 categories, based on the community visions stated in the town’s master plan. The categories are: Artistic Endeavors, Education and Learning, Environmental Stewardship, Business and Economic Vitality, Health and Well-being, Community Champion, Public Service, Movers and Shakers, Youth Visionary Leadership, and Adult Visionary Leadership.