Since 2020, Friends of San Damiano (FoSD) has been on a mission to protect and reimagine one of Monona’s most iconic natural spaces. What began as a grassroots effort to save this nearly 10-acre property on Lake Monona has evolved into a thriving nonprofit with a bold, community-driven vision: to advance the use of the San Damiano property as a place for public recreation, interpretive programming, and peaceful reflection.
In March 2024, the City of Monona, FoSD, and the community finalized the San Damiano Master Plan, a long-term vision that honors the land’s history while shaping a future rich with trails, gathering spaces, restored shoreline, and a year-round community space.
Recently, in March 2025 a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FoSD and the City was signed. Under this agreement, the City retains ownership of the property, while FoSD leads fundraising, programming, operations, and the phased implementation of the Master Plan.
Now, with clear direction, a strong relationship with the City, and a Community Impact Grant from the Madison Community Foundation, FoSD is turning its attention to bringing the community’s shared vision to life.
A Vision Coming to Life
The San Damiano Master Plan outlines a transformative $11–$14 million investment in the property over the coming years. Phased improvements include a year-round community facility, shoreline restoration, and enhanced public access to the lake. It’s an ambitious and exciting vision—one that reflects the values, ideas, and dreams shared by the community throughout the planning process.
Thanks to a $50,000 Community Impact Grant from Madison Community Foundation—and matching support from other generous donors—FoSD is now actively searching for its first executive director.
“We are incredibly grateful to Madison Community Foundation for believing in the vision for San Damiano and investing in its future,” said Wes Mosman Block, FoSD Board President. “This support is accelerating our ability to bring the community’s vision to life.”
A Pivotal Role at a Pivotal Moment
The new executive director will step into leadership at a key turning point for the organization. Reporting to the Board President, this individual will serve as FoSD’s chief executive, responsible for guiding the nonprofit as it assumes operational leadership of the San Damiano property and prepares to launch a capital campaign. The right candidate will be someone who not only understands nonprofit management and fundraising, but also feels deeply connected to community, nature, and the power of public spaces.
“Investing in strong leadership is essential for the success of any transformative project,” said Angela Davis, Director of Grantmaking at Madison Community Foundation. “The new executive director of Friends of San Damiano will help deliver the vision for the San Damiano property as a revitalized space for the community. MCF is proud to support this project as it ensures the property will remain a thriving, accessible space for generations to come.”
Are you the leader we are looking for—or do you know someone who is?
This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead an organization on the rise, steward one of Dane County’s most treasured properties, and help create something truly lasting for generations to come. View the Executive Director job posting and apply here.
Please reach out to Interim Managing Director, Julie Byrnes, with any questions at julie@sandamianomonona.org.
