This month, we're thrilled to spotlight one of our dedicated volunteers whose journey with San Damiano is rooted in a deep commitment to environmental justice, public service, and community connection – Molly Grupe, pronounced "groupie" so now the title of this blog makes more sense!
Molly’s path to the Friends of San Damiano (FoSD) began during her time serving on the Monona City Council from 2018 to 2022. With a strong passion for environmental preservation, Molly was deeply involved in both the Parks Board and the Sustainability Committee. It was there, workingalongside fellow community members and City staff, that she played an integralrole in helping the City secure the future of San Damiano.
“Signing off on the purchase of San Damiano – alongside Mayor O’Connor and my fellow Alders – is one of the proudest moments of my timein elected office,” Molly shared. “Ensuring the property’s future as anaccessible and inclusive green space is what ultimately led me to becomeinvolved with the Friends.”
One of Molly’s most cherished memories with San Damiano is theHarry Whitehorse International Wood Sculpture Festival first held during thesummer of 2024. “The weeklong exhibition of artistry, cultural education, andcommunity engagement felt unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in Monona,” Mollyrecalled.
Molly cares deeply about the health of our planet and findshope in working with Friends of San Damiano alongside others who are dedicatedto preserving nature and educating the community. She is also grateful for therelationship FoSD has built with the Ho-Chunk Nation, recognizing how theseconnections help honor the cultural and historical significance of the land andencourage reflection on our responsibilities to Indigenous communities.
Outside of her work with FoSD, Molly finds joy in theeveryday. “I’m a sucker for life’s prosaic pleasures,” she said. Reading,watching TV and movies, and walking her dogs are favorite pastimes. And here'sa fun fact you might not expect: Molly’s a huge horror fan! “I’ve seenhundreds of horror films and even plan special trips to Minnesota to watch themin theaters with one of my sisters!”
Looking ahead, Molly is most excited about continuing togrow community engagement around San Damiano: “I look forward to putting moreof my peers to work in ensuring the sustainable future of this incredible andunique piece of land. San Damiano is special.”
Thank you, Molly, for your unwavering dedication andpassion! Volunteers like you help keep San Damiano not only beautiful but alsomeaningful. Your vision and commitment make a lasting impact.
