OUR STORY

The latest from the DRA

Earth Day

๐ŸŒ Happy Earth Day! โ™ป๏ธ Let's celebrate by recycling, volunteering, shopping wisely, and eating locally to support our planet. Together, we can make a difference! ๐ŸŒฑ #EarthDay

Mission Grants Due Tomorrow

๐ŸŒŸ Tomorrow is the deadline for DRA Mission Grants! ๐ŸŒŸ
Don't miss out on the opportunity to fund your organization's project and/or program. Submit your application by tomorrow to be considered.  https://www.dradubuque.com/

Dubuque Dream Center

Our recent visit to the The Dubuque Dream Center was truly inspiring! We were impressed by their commitment to the community as we toured their new facility and learned more about their project "Keeping the Dream Alive." With a multi-year DRA Core Grant of $45,000, their vision for growth is poised to leave a lasting impact. #WithDRA

Mission Grants Due April 19

The deadline for DRA Mission Grants is quickly approachingโ€”get your applications in by this Friday, April 19! Don't miss out on this opportunity to fund your innovative projects and make a positive impact. Apply now at https://www.dradubuque.com/

2024 DRA Grant Kickoff

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the DRA Grant Kickoff last week! It was inspiring to see so many dedicated individuals coming together to support our mission.

Grant Tutorial

Are you new to grant applications with us? Or simply need a refresher? Watch our helpful video tutorial or follow the provided instructions to breeze through your grant application effortlessly. Watch here: https://bit.ly/3vcmRkx

Mission Grants Open

DRA Mission Grants are officially OPEN for organizations seeking funding from $50K-$100K. Don't miss this opportunity - applications are open now through April 19. Head to https://www.dradubuque.com/ to apply!

Mission Grants Open April 8

The DRA Mission Grants will open for applications on Monday, April 8. Grants ranging from $50K to $100K will be available to support impactful projects. Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference. Application deadline is Friday, April 19. https://www.dradubuque.com/

2024 Grant Kickoff Reception

The DRA Grant Kickoff Reception is happening tonight at the Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque. Doors open at 5 PM, with the presentation starting at 5:30 PM. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn more about our grants and initiatives. See you there! #WithDRA

Easter 2024

๐Ÿฐ๐ŸŒท Wishing you a day filled with happiness, laughter, and sweet treats! Happy Easter from all of us at the DRA!  #HappyEaster

DRA Grant Webinar April

Join us for our DRA Grant Webinar on Thursday, April 25 from 4-5 pm! Gain valuable insights and tips to successfully apply for a DRA Core Grant. Presented in partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque. https://bit.ly/43BhY1l

St. Patrick’s Day 2024

๐Ÿ€ Wishing you a day filled with luck and laughter! Happy St. Patrick's Day! ๐ŸŒˆ#StPatricksDay

Friends of St. Mary’s

The DRA had an awesome visit to Steeple Square last week! We received a tour and were impressed by the incredible work happening there. The Friends of St. Mary's received a $50,000 DRA Grant in 2023 for destination enhancements and marketing. Seeing it all in action was beyond inspiring!  #WithDRA

DRA Grant Webinar

Secure funding for your community project with our Mission Grants Webinar on March 21, 2-3 pm. Learn expert tips from DRA and insights from Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque on building the perfect project team and crafting a stellar grant proposal. Register now! #DRAGrantWebinar ๐Ÿ“…

International Women’s Day

Happy International Women's Day! Today, and every day, we honor the contributions of women who shape our world, inspire change, and break barriers. Here's to empowering women, uplifting voices, and building a more inclusive future for all. #InternationalWomensDay

2024 Grant Kickoff

Save the Date! ๐Ÿ“… Join us for the DRA Grant Kickoff on Wednesday, April 3, from 5-7 pm at the Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque. Learn about grant application timelines, guidelines, and more! #DRAGrantKickoff

Leap Year

Happy Leap Year! What exciting plans do you have for your bonus 24 hours?
 

How To Complete a Grant Application

New to grant applications with us? Or just need a refresher? Watch the video on the link or follow the instructions provided to breeze through your grant application.
https://support.foundant.com/.../4479853059991-GLM... 

Opening Doors

Last week, we had the privilege of touring Opening Doors Dubuque's Maria House, Teresa Shelter, and Francis Apartments. In 2023, the DRA awarded them a multi-year Core Grant of $10,000 per year for three years, enhancing their Permanent Support Housing efforts. This is designed to build independent living, financial literacy, and job and tenancy skills. #WithDRA

Random Acts of Kindness

๐ŸŒŸ Happy Random Acts of Kindness Day! Today, let's spread positivity and kindness throughout our community. Whether it's a smile, a helping hand, or a small gesture, let's make a difference together! ๐Ÿ’™ #RandomActsofKindness

2024 Calendar of Events

Check out some of our upcoming important dates for the DRA and mark your calendar!

Valentine’s Day

Wishing you a Valentine's Day filled with joy and warmth from all of us at DRA. May your day be surrounded by love and cherished moments. 

Dubuque Choral

A huge thank you to the Dubuque Chorale for sharing these incredible snapshots from Songfest23! The performance brought in over 500 audience members and showcased the talent of 257 singers. We're proud to have supported this event with a Core Grant of $9,285. #Songfest23 #WithDRA

Creative Adventure Lab

We're thrilled to have been able to visit Creative Adventure Lab and witness firsthand the impact of the 2023 Core Grant of $20,000, which enabled them to expand their walk-in ceramics lab. Thanks to this grant, they've doubled their ceramics selection, diversified tools and glazes, invested in staff training, and are expanding marketing efforts to reach new audiences. #WithDRA

Groundhog Day

Happy Groundhog Day! Will Punxsutawney Phil spot his shadow, extending our winter by 6 weeks? Regardless, wishing you a delightful Groundhog Day! ๐Ÿพ#GroundhogDay

Rising Star Theatre Company

We had a fantastic time visiting Rising Star Theatre Company as they brought their free educational programming to life at St. Mark Youth Enrichment! Supported by a multi-year core grant of $12,000, this initiative is making a real difference in the community. Witnessing the students fully engaged in the theatrical classes was a true testament to the power of the arts! #WithDRA 

New Podcast Shorts

Our new Dubuque Rising Podcast Shorts are here! Join us as we dive into diverse topics, from business insights to the hidden gems of Dubuque with videos that are short, sweet, and full of wisdom! Listen on our Youtube Channel! #YoutubeShorts #DubuqueRisingPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@DRADubuque/shorts
 

Trivia Day

Did you know? 

This #TriviaDay, we thought weโ€™d share a cool fact: since the inception of the DRA, we've contributed an incredible $57,522,198 to charitable causes! Join us in celebrating the power of giving and making a meaningful impact. Your support has truly made a difference! #WithDRA

Dubuque Esports League

Exploring the incredible world of esports at the Dubuque Esport League, Inc. was a blast! ๐ŸŽฎ Proud to have awarded them a $10,000 Core Grant to support their mission of Leveling Up Tomorrow's Game-Changers. #WithDRA

Happy New Year

Cheers to a year of new beginnings and exciting adventures! Happy New Year from the DRA!

Happy Holidays 2023

Happy Holidays from the DRA! May this season bring you joy, peace, and moments to cherish. #HappyHolidays

DRA Holiday Video

Have a holly jolly Christmas from all of us at the DRA & Q Casino! Watch the video on our Facebook page.

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The DRA had a fantastic visit to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, exploring the Rivers to the Sea exhibit!  Weโ€™re proud to have supported the Dubuque County Historical Society with a $150,000 multi-year grant in 2022, bringing our total contribution to just over $428,000. #WithDRA

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque

Exciting times at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque as the DRA explores their new Arts & Crafts Room! ๐ŸŽจ The DRA is proud to have contributed a $100,000 Mission Grant towards this creative space, with a total support of $389,836 over the years. Together, we're fostering a vibrant environment for our community's youth.  #WithDRA

Keep it Home for the Holidays

Embrace the spirit of giving by shopping at the Q Casino Gift Shop during the Keep it Home for the Holidays campaign. Your dollars make a real impact in the local community, and every $100 spent at the Q Gift Shop earns you a $25 food voucher to Q Sports Bar or Houlihan's. Plus, enter to win a $50 gift certificate! #SupportLocal Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce
 

Dubuque Rising Podcast Episode 8

Don't miss the latest Dubuque Rising podcast episode featuring Mayor Brad Cavanagh! ๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Tune in as he shares his incredible journey from social work to becoming Dubuque's Mayor, discussing challenges, hopes, and how communities come together. #DubuqueRisingPodcast ๐ŸŽง

Dubuque/Jackson County Habitat for Humanity

The DRA is proud to announce a $200K contribution to Dubuque/Jackson County Habitat for Humanity for their Mt. Pleasant Pocket Neighborhood Project! This generous grant supports the purchase of land, paving the way for 14 affordable homes in Dubuque's Wood Street neighborhood. Together, we're building a stronger community and addressing the critical need for affordable housing.  https://bit.ly/3RlctiQ #WithDRA 

Dubuque Rising Podcast Episode 7

 Episode 7 of Dubuque Rising Podcast is live! Join Alex in a captivating conversation with Lynn "Tut" Fuller, the CEO and Chairman of Capra Bank. Discover Tut's extraordinary journey from medical school to banking, and the unique Dubuque legacy that shaped his passion for serving the community. #DubuqueRisingPodcast

Veterans Celebration

On Saturday, we honored our heroes during the American Legion Dubuque Iowa Post 6 Veterans Day celebration at ImOn Arena! The event included inspiring speeches, powerful performances by The East Dubuque Drum & Bugle Corps & Dubuque Fire Pipes & Drums, and a touching ceremony remembering our POWs. Thank you to the hundreds who joined in paying tribute to those who've served! #VeteransDay

Veterans Day 2023

Today, we express our heartfelt gratitude to the veterans who have selflessly served our nation. Thank you for your courage and sacrifice. #VeteransDay

Veterans Memorial on Schmitt Island

As we approach #VeteransDay, we're proud to showcase the incredible Veteran's Memorial on Schmitt Island, made possible in part by the DRA's generous $3.4 million contribution. Join us in paying tribute to our heroes with a closer look at the Tri-State Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the majestic Skyward monument. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. #VeteransMemorial

Watch the video at Facebook.com/dradubuque

Dubuque Arboretum

Last week we had the pleasure of visiting the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens to witness the completion of their 2022 Core Grant project - the Legacy Tree development and new restrooms. We're proud to have contributed $35,000 towards this amazing endeavor, and over the years, our grants have totaled $424,704.89 in support of the Arboretum's mission. A fantastic tour allowed us to see the incredible impact of our partnership!  #WithDRA

Watch the video at Facebook.com/DRADubuque

2023 Captain’s Ball

We had an amazing time at the Captain's Ball last Friday! Our team from DRA and Q Casino proudly supported the Dubuque County Historical Society, National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Mathias Ham Historic Site, National Rivers Hall of Fame, and RiverWorks Discovery. Here's to 70+ years of success and the commitment to conservation, preservation, and education.

Podcast Episode 6

Join Alex and special guest Rick Kruser, VP and General Manager of Potosi Brewing Company, as they explore crucial economic topics impacting Dubuque and rural communities in the latest Dubuque Rising podcast episode. Get an inside look at the city's vibrant future and its inspiring journey of growth, innovation, and community-first values. #DubuqueRisingPodcast

Halloween 2023

Wishing everyone a frightfully fun Halloween from the DRA! Enjoy the festivities and stay safe while you celebrate! 

Umbrella Arts

The DRA recently visited Guttenburg, Iowa to catch up with Umbrella Arts and see the completion of their Outdoor Musical Instrument Project. With the help of a $7,000 grant from the DRA in 2022, they're harmonizing the community through music! #WithDRA

View the video at Facebook.com/DRADubuque

Welcome Connor

Join us in giving a warm welcome to Connor, our newest addition to the DRA team! As our Creative Content Intern, he'll bring a fresh perspective and creativity to the DRA.

Podcast Episode 5

Check out the latest Dubuque Rising podcast episode, featuring Rick Dickinson, President & CEO of Greater Dubuque Development, and John Gronen, President of Gronen. Join Alex and his guests as they dive into vital economic topics shaping Dubuque and rural communities. Get an inside look at Dubuque's future and discover the incredible community-first innovations that have made it a thriving destination. https://bit.ly/3rR5Fj4

Autumn Adventure Recap

What an amazing Autumn Adventure on Schmitt Island we had this past Sunday, October 15! Thanks to all the fantastic participants and organizations who made it a day to remember. From the thrilling scavenger hunt to the scenic guided trolley, cruise, and free ice skating, it was an unforgettable experience!

Autumn Adventure Today

Pick up your scavenger hunt at the DRA booth outside the ImOn Arena now! Turn in your completed scavenger hunt to win a prize!

Autumn Adventure Figure Skating

Join us on Sunday, October 15 for the Autumn Adventure on Schmitt Island! Enjoy free ice skating at ImOn Arena from 1-4 pm, with a special performance by the Dubuque Learn to Skate/Dubuque Figure Skating at 2:30 pm. New skaters can receive expert guidance, and there's even a chance to register for upcoming classes. Don't miss the "train like a figure skater" area with professional training equipment! https://bit.ly/3ZX5sHm

Autumn Adventure Trolley

Hop aboard the guided trolley from Trolleys of Dubuque during our Autumn Adventure and embark on a journey around Schmitt Island! Discover hidden gems and fascinating stories as we explore the island's rich history and exciting future. https://bit.ly/3PVJn7w

Autumn Adventure Stickers

Ready to add a touch of Schmitt Island flair to your collection? Look out for our exclusive Schmitt Island stickers during our Autumn Adventure. They're the perfect memento to remember the day's excitement! https://bit.ly/3ZT8Gfc

Autumn Adventure Veterans Memorial

Join us in remembering the rich history and stories of our community at the Veterans Memorial Plaza during our Autumn Adventure. It's an opportunity to honor, learn, and share meaningful conversations with our respected veterans. https://bit.ly/3tmmm65 

Autumn Adventure Cruise

During the Autumn Adventure, weโ€™re offering a sightseeing experience aboard the American Lady Cruises! Secure your spot by registering in advance at https://bit.ly/46ErO2E

You'll need to turn in your scavenger hunt for your cruise tickets, so get ready for a day of excitement and exploration! 

Q Casino Renovation and Expansion

DRA has received the green light for Phases 2 and 3 of the Q Casino Renovation and Expansion Plan! With a total investment of $75-80 million, this multi-year project, featuring Iowa-based partners, is set to transform Q Casino in Dubuque. Get ready for an incredible upgrade, including a lower casino area, sports bar restaurant, and more family entertainment options. Exciting times ahead! https://bit.ly/46BFxHw

Autumn Adventure Scavenger Hunt

Get ready to put on your detective hat because our Autumn Adventure Scavenger Hunt Clues are going to challenge your wits and lead you to hidden treasures all over Schmitt Island! https://bit.ly/3F4drcc

Autumn Adventure on Schmitt Island

SAVE THE DATE!
Join us on Sunday, October 15 for an Autumn Adventure on Schmitt Island, a celebration of our island's vibrant present and exciting future! Explore hidden gems, enjoy interactive exhibits, and participate in a Scavenger Hunt with prizes. #SchmittIsland #SaveTheDate

United Way’s Over the Edge

Thank you to everyone who donated to United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States to help send #TeamDRA Over the Edge of the MidWestOne Bank building! Q Casino Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque

UW-Platteville Dubuque Community on Campus Day

We're at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Dubuque Community on Campus Day! If you're on campus stop by to visit and get t-shirt! #withDRA

Podcast Episode 4

Dive into the latest Dubuque Rising podcast, Episode 4, featuring Molly Grover, President of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, and Ali Fuller, Founder of Driftless Consulting Group. Join Alex and his guests as they explore critical economic topics affecting Dubuque and rural communities. Listen and download now to stay informed! https://bit.ly/3EAe0uc #DubuqueRisingPodcast

NAMI Community Walk

Thank you to the DRA and Q Casino team members who joined us for the NAMI Dubuque Community Walk for suicide awareness today! #withDRA

2023 DRA Grant Reception

Thank you to all the incredible grant recipients who joined us at the DRA Grant Reception last week! Your dedication to making a positive impact in our community is truly inspiring. Check out the photos below and tag yourself and your organization. #withDRA

Visit our Facebook page to view all of the photos.

Happy Labor Day

On this Labor Day, we recognize and salute the efforts you put into our community. Take some time to relax and recharge! #HappyLaborDay

Dubuque Rising Podcast Episode 3

Get ready for another episode of the #DubuqueRisingPodcast featuring the amazing John Sutter, VP of Field Of Dreams Dyersville Iowa Operations. Join us as we dive into the boundless enthusiasm and incredible potential that the Field of Dreams project holds for our beloved Iowa. Tune in now at https://bit.ly/44jKwef

Over the Edge 2023

Join us at Gary Dolphin's Iron Bar on August 30, 4-6 pm, as we shake things up for a great cause! Ryan Mills and Rob Korman from Q Casino are taking over the bar to raise funds for United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States through Over the Edge. Let's help them go over the edge in style - see you there! #TeamDRA

Congressional Staff Visit

A huge thank you to the Congressional staff for their insightful visit to Dubuque and the Dubuque Ice Arena today! We're grateful for the opportunity to showcase our plans for Schmitt Island and share our vision for an exciting future. Your interest and engagement are vital as we work towards making Schmitt Island a vibrant hub for the community.

Episode 2 “The Impact of Giving Back”

Tune in to the latest episode of the Dubuque Rising Podcast with Alex Dixon! Discover the impact of giving back within our community as Racquel McClellan, The Dubuque Dream Center Development Director, and Gary Stoppelman, Dubuque Museum of Art Executive Director, share their insights. https://bit.ly/43Zd1hd #DubuqueRisingPodcast

Hiring Creative Content Intern

Exciting Opportunity for a Creative Content Intern at the DRA 
The DRA, a 501(c)(4) organization, seeks a part-time intern with a blend of technical, creative, and interpersonal skills. They aim to provide social, economic, and community betterment while enhancing Dubuque area tourism.

The intern will craft engaging narratives through video and written content, supporting mission-oriented community work. Proficiency in storytelling, graphic design, photography, and video production. Knowledge of social media best practices.

โฐ Hours: 15-20 hours per week
๐Ÿ’ฐ Pay: $16/hour
โœ‰๏ธ Apply: https://bit.ly/3qhInSA #Hiring #JoinOurTeam

2023 Women’s Leadership Network’s Annual Connect Experience

Exciting day at the Women's Leadership Network of Dubuque's Annual Connect Experience! Looking forward to gaining valuable insights on "Purpose and Perspective" from the incredible speakers. After the morning conference, we can't wait to hit the golf course and network. Q Casino

Golfin’ with Dolphin & Play with Lepay 2023

โ›ณ Yesterday, team members of Q Casino had a fantastic time at the Golfin' with Dolphin & Play with Lepay 2023 golf tournament, supporting the United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States! Such an amazing event for a wonderful cause!

Episode 1 “The Origin”

Tune in to the first episode of the Dubuque Rising Podcast! Join Alex Dixon and special guest Gary Dolphin as they explore the origins of the DRA and its incredible "community-first" history! Don't miss this enlightening conversation โ€“ listen now! https://bit.ly/45nQbBh #DubuqueRisingPodcast

2023 Core Grants Announced

We are thrilled to announce that DRA has awarded over $1 million in grants to 52 exceptional organizations in the tri-state area! These grants will empower and uplift our communities in so many ways. Together, we are making a positive impact that will last for years to come! https://bit.ly/3KiKHzp #withDRA

Dubuque Rising: A Surprising Gem on the Mississippi

The new podcast "Dubuque Rising: A Surprising Gem on the Mississippi" is now live! Join Alex Dixon, President & CEO of DRA and Q Casino, as he takes you on a captivating journey, where history meets the future, through stories from those who helped shape this unique community making Dubuque a thriving destination. Download for free at https://bit.ly/44BDtyL

Saint 4 Life Foundation Golf Outing 2023

Team members from the DRA and Q Casino had amazing time participating in the Saint 4 Life Foundation's golf outing yesterday! Together, we can build a vibrant hockey community and making a positive impact.

Scouting Golf Classic 2023

DRA and Q Casino team members are hitting the greens for a great cause at the Scouting Golf Classic! Proceeds of the event support Scouting programs that make a positive impact on youth in our community. 

Happy 4th of July

Wishing everyone a happy and safe 4th of July! Enjoy the fireworks, celebrate the spirit of independence, and have a fantastic holiday! #IndependenceDay

City Council Meeting

A big thank you to the Dubuque City Council for giving us the opportunity to present updates on the Schmitt Island Development last night! We were thrilled to share the exciting progress happening at Q Casino and discuss our vision for the future of Schmitt Island. Together, we're creating a vibrant and dynamic destination for the community. City of Dubuque Government

Mission Grant Recipients 2023

The DRA is thrilled to announce the recipients of its Mission Grants for 2023, totaling an impressive $250,000! Congratulations to Travel Dubuque, United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States, and Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque for their outstanding efforts in community development and growth. Together, let's build a stronger and more vibrant Dubuque! https://bit.ly/3pic9pT #withDRA

DALMC Golf Outing

What an amazing day at the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council's golf outing yesterday! We had a blast supporting a fantastic organization while enjoying some friendly competition on the greens!

2023 Clarke Golf Classic

Team members from DRA and Q Casino are playing in the Clarke University Golf Classic, which supports scholarships for local students! We're proud to be part of this fantastic event, making a difference in our community and empowering young minds. Together, we swing for success and support a great cause!

Dubuque Jaycees 2023 Core Grant

We are thrilled to announce that the DRA Board members have approved a Core Grant of $20,000 to the Dubuque Jaycees! This generous award will play a pivotal role in supporting this year's Fireworks & Air Show Spectacular, set to take place on July 3!

Memorial Day Parade Photos

Thank you to all who joined us at the Memorial Day Parade on Schmitt Island! It was a heartwarming sight to see the community come together to honor our veterans. Your presence and support made this event truly special. We extend our deepest gratitude to the brave veterans who have served our country, as well as to everyone who participated, organized, and contributed to making this parade a success! 

View the all the pictures from the parade on our Facebook page. #withDRA

2023 Memorial Day

Happy Memorial Day! Today, we pay our respects to the courageous individuals who served our nation. Let us remember the heroes who made our freedom possible. #MemorialDay

Veteran’s Memorial Day Parade

Join us on May 29 at 10:30 am for the Memorial Day Parade honoring veterans on Schmitt Island!

After a three-year absence, the parade is back, starting from the Q Casino parking lot and ending at the Veteran's Memorial Plaza. Following the parade, there will be a short program, wreath laying, and a community cookout with free food provided by Hy-Vee. Don't miss this incredible event to honor our heroes! #MemorialDay #withDRA

Veterans Freedom Center Core Grant

Yesterday the DRA Board approved a Core Grant for the Veterans Freedom Center. They've been awarded $10,872 to organize the Veteran's Memorial Day Parade and Community Cookout. Let's come together as a community to honor our veterans and enjoy a day filled with gratitude, remembrance, and delicious food! #withDRA

2023 Days of Caring

Team DRA had an incredible day participating in Days of Caring, cleaning up Schmitt Island! Despite the flooding, we finally got the perfect weather to tackle all the trash and debris. A huge thank you to all the amazing team members from Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque and Q Casino who joined us today. #TeamDRA

Core Grants 2023

The DRA Core Grants application will be opening on May 8!

If your organization is in need of funding for a project or program, we encourage you to apply for a Core Grant. Requests up to $50,000 will be considered.

The deadline to submit your application is May 19, so don't delay! Visit our website for more information and to apply. #DRA

Make-A-Wish Iowa

We are excited to announce that the Make-A-Wish Iowa has received a $10,000 grant from the DRA, helping to make wish granting possible in the Dubuque area! We are thrilled to have been able to contribute to such a wonderful organization that brings joy and hope to children with critical illnesses.

The DRA funds recently helped make Gray's wish come true! Gray is a 5-year-old girl with a nervous system disorder, and her wish was to go on a beach vacation with her family in Hawaii. Gray wanted to attend a luau, swim with dolphins, and enjoy the beautiful island scenery. Thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the DRA, Gray's wish was granted, and she was able to create unforgettable memories with her family.

Thank you, Make-A-Wish Foundation of Iowa, for all the incredible work that you do! #withDRA

2023 Grant Kickoff Thank You

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to support the DRA Grant Kickoff Reception at the Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque last Tuesday. Your attendance and participation made the event a huge success! Check out these photos from a great night!

Mission Grants Apply Now

๐Ÿ“ฃ The DRA's Mission Grants are now open for applications!

The deadline for applications is April 21, so don't delay! Apply now and help us make a difference in our community. #withDRA #MissionGrants https://bit.ly/3ZWWFnt 

Mission Grants Open on April 9th

The DRAโ€™s Mission Grants program will be accepting applications from April 9-21. Organizations may request grants ranging from $50,000 to $300,000 to support their mission and make a positive impact in our community.

We're committed to making a difference, and we can't wait to see the amazing projects you have in store. Mark your calendars and visit our website for more information on how to apply! https://bit.ly/435XEEz #DRA #MissionGrants

Camp Courageous

We are thrilled to announce that Camp Courageous has received a $25,000 grant from the DRA to complete their new multipurpose field! This field can be used as a baseball/kickball field, pickle ball court, soccer field, and 4-square court, all with a flat, smooth, and soft surface that will ensure that all campers can use the facility without fear of injury.

At the DRA, we believe that access to safe and inclusive recreational opportunities is a basic right for all individuals, regardless of their abilities. This multipurpose field is a huge step towards achieving that goal, and we are proud to support Camp Courageous in this endeavor.

We can't wait to see the impact that this new multipurpose field will have on the campers and staff at Camp Courageous! #withDRA

2022 Grant Kickoff Recap

We can't wait to see everyone tonight at the Grant Kickoff Reception at the Diamond Jo Casino! Take a look at some of the photos from last yearโ€™s kickoff event. #DRAGrantKickoff #withDRA

2023 DRA Grant Kickoff Reception

Join us for the DRA Grant Kickoff Reception at Diamond Jo Casino on Tuesday, April 4! This event is your chance to learn about the exciting grant opportunities available in 2023. RSVP by March 24 at https://bit.ly/3Jn05tv #withDRA

Monticello Community School District

Congratulations to the Monticello Community School District on receiving a $10,000 grant from the DRA to support their school literacy needs!

We are proud to have contributed to the improvement of student achievement in reading by helping the district update their reading curriculum with the most recent and best materials available. We are confident that this investment will have a positive impact on the students of Monticello for years to come, and we are honored to have played a role in their success.

Keep up the great work! #withDRA #Education

Dubuque Jaycees

We are thrilled to announce that the Dubuque Jaycees were awarded a $25,000 grant from the DRA to support their 3rd of July Fireworks and Air Show!

This community event not only raises the profile of Dubuque as a major destination for a place to "live, work, & play," but also serves to enhance the local community's participation in honoring and celebrating the anniversary of our nation's independence.

Thank you for all that you do to make Dubuque a great place to live and visit! #withDRA #CommunityEvent #IndependenceDay #LiveWorkPlayDubuque

City of Dubuque Received $9,138,168 in 2022

As the license holder for gaming operations at Q Casino and the co-licensee for Diamond Jo Casino, the DRA contributed over $9 million to the City of Dubuque in 2022! #togetherwecan #with DRA

Dubuque Arts Council

We're thrilled to announce that in 2022, the Dubuque Arts Council received a $10,000 grant from the DRA to fund an incredible project featuring Ball in the House, an acapella group of 5 talented men from Boston. Through this project, an Artist in Residence program was established in elementary schools throughout the Tri-State area, giving students the opportunity to experience live professional music programming. We're proud to have supported such an impactful initiative and look forward to seeing the positive effects it has on the community. #withDRA #musiceducation

$3 Million Awarded from Destination Iowa

Congratulations to the City of Dubuque for being awarded $3,000,000 for the construction of an open-air amphitheater on Schmitt Island! This new addition is sure to provide a beautiful and unique outdoor venue for residents and visitors to enjoy a variety of performances and events. We can't wait to see this project come to life and enhance the cultural offerings of the city. #SchmittIsland #CommunityEnrichment