The DRA, a leading gaming and entertainment organization in Dubuque, released today the list of 57 organizations in the tri-state area that will receive grants through the organization's Core Grant program. The total amount to be distributed to recipients in 2024 is $1,231,003.
"For more than 30 years, the DRA has provided valuable grant funding to a wide variety of worthy programs and initiatives,” said Mike Donohue, Chair of the DRA Board of Directors. “As an organization committed to fostering growth and other quality of life-related efforts, we are proud to continue our work by investing in organizations that are doing good things for communities and people throughout the tri-state area."
The Core Grant program targets grant requests up to $50,000 from communities or non-profit organizations with programs or initiatives that focus on people attraction initiatives, such as population growth, retention and tourism; and a preference is given to capacity building opportunities alongside material purchases.
This year's Core Grant process attracted 120 total requests, all of which were reviewed by DRA staff and a grant committee before a final decision was made on final awards. Of the 57 recipients awarded grants this year, 53 were from Iowa, three were from Wisconsin, and one was from Illinois. Fifteen of this year's recipients received 100 percent of their requested amount, while 24 of the 57 organizations received at least 50 percent or more of their respective requests.
“Our aim is to be impactful with these grants and really assist communities. We take a close look at the applications received and then determine how our support can help applicants move the needle through much-needed funding,” explained Mandy Miller, Manager of Strategic Philanthropy for DRA. “The programs, initiatives and services we invest in are those that align with our overall goal of helping communities grow and prosper, so we are pleased to be able to provide financial support to these important efforts.”
The DRA utilizes a focused and strategic approach to how grant funds are awarded. This process helps ensure that any financial assistance provided to organizations can have a more positive and permanent impact throughout the tri-state area.
"From the beginning, the DRA has supported organizations addressing a wide variety of different causes and initiatives that also align with its own goals and objectives related to community support and growth,” said Wendy Runde, Vice President and General Manager of the Diamond Jo Casino. “This approach has worked well and benefited countless organizations, which is why we will continue to focus on actively supporting efforts that aim to make positive changes in communities throughout the region.”
DRA’s commitment to the community is made possible by proceeds that come from both Q Casino + Resort and the Diamond Jo Casino – both of which attract thousands of visitors to Dubuque each year from Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and beyond. The DRA is the non-profit entity that owns and operates Q Casino + Resort and is the co-licensee for Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque.
Since 1985, the DRA has awarded more than 5,000 grants – totaling nearly $60 million – to well over 1,500 organizations in the tri-state area (Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois). For more information on DRA funding opportunities and news, including a list of the 2024 Core Grant recipients, please visit: https://dradubuque.com/.