DRA

The DRA is unique because we are one of only two gaming organizations in the country established and run for the benefit of a local government entity.

The Dubuque Racing Association (DRA) is a dynamic community resource strengthening the tri-state region through gaming, entertainment, tourism and philanthropy—reinvesting in people, places and opportunities that improve quality of life. In fact, since our founding we have contributed more than $244 million back to the City of Dubuque. Our business model is simple. We distribute 100% of our winnin

gs after expenses, which includes the 4.5% of adjusted gross receipts we receive monthly from the Diamond Jo Casino. A third of the money goes to area charities, a third goes to the City of Dubuque, and a third will now go toward efforts to develop and enhance amenities on the city-owned Schmitt Island. Simply put, this money supports organizations and projects that have a direct impact on improving the lives of people in the Dubuque area!

09/04/2026

🚨 ONE WEEK TO GO! 🚨

Team DRA is almost halfway to our $6,000 goal for United Way’s Over the Edge but we need your help to get all five of our team members over that edge!

With just one week left, now is the time to help us finish strong. Every donation, big or small, gets Team DRA closer to the goal and supports the incredible work of United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States. 💙

Help send Team DRA Over the Edge!
🔗 https://bit.ly/4A10L1a

Q Casino + Resort Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque

09/03/2026

Last Thursday, we had the opportunity to celebrate the incredible organizations making a difference across our region at the 2026 DRA Grant Reception! 🎉

This year, DRA awarded $1,511,154.50 in grant funding to support projects, programs and organizations strengthening the communities we serve.

📸 Check out some of the check photos from the evening and help us congratulate our 2026 DRA grant recipients!

We’re proud to invest in the people and organizations working every day to make our communities stronger. Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients! 💛

09/01/2026

A piece of Dubuque history has been restored for future generations.

A $25,000 DRA Core Grant helped the Dubuque County Historical Society complete the multi-year restoration of the Mathias Ham House, preserving this National Register of Historic Places property while creating new opportunities for visitors to experience its history.

The extensive restoration included more than 100 hand-restored windows, masonry and foundation repairs, updated electrical systems, restored lighting, interior finishes, flooring and more. Visitors can even access the restored belvedere for the first time in 30 years, offering views of the Mississippi River and a new way to experience the home.

Preserving the Mathias Ham Historic Site protects an important part of Dubuque's story while strengthening heritage tourism, education and quality of place in our community.

08/28/2026

The Irish Hooley Music Festival of Dubuque reached a new milestone in 2026! ☘️🎶

The annual celebration of Irish music, culture and community welcomed an estimated 2,200 attendees after moving to the Back Waters Amp at Q Casino + Resort — setting a new attendance record for the festival.

The Dubuque Irish Hooley is completing the first year of a two-year DRA Core Grant of $5,000 annually ($10,000 total). Grant funding helped the organization elevate the festival experience, including bringing nationally recognized Celtic band Gaelic Storm to Dubuque as this year's headliner.

Beyond a great day of music and celebration, the Hooley draws visitors from across the Tri-State region, supports local businesses and adds to the cultural experiences that make Dubuque a great place to live and visit.

Here's to keeping Irish culture—and the Hooley—thriving in Dubuque!

☘️

08/26/2026

A stronger community starts with helping people feel connected, supported, and empowered to build a life where they live.

Through a $40,000 DRA Core Grant awarded over two years ($80,000 total), The Lantern Center expanded its capacity to serve immigrants and refugees throughout the Dubuque region.

The grant supported a dedicated outreach position that helped strengthen community partnerships, expand donor engagement, increase advocacy efforts, and connect more students with English tutoring, citizenship preparation, employment resources, and support services.

During the first year of the grant, the organization also completed its first-ever three-year strategic plan, launched a comprehensive rebranding initiative, and relocated to a larger space on the Sisters of the Presentation campus to better serve its growing programs.

By helping new residents build connections and put down roots, Presentation Lantern Center is creating a more welcoming and vibrant community for everyone.

08/24/2026

The monthly DRA Board Meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 25 at noon in Reflections Event Spaces at Q Casino + Resort.

08/21/2026

Meet Team DRA member Lisa Connors from Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque!

For Lisa, giving back starts with supporting the community we all call home. That's why she's joining Team DRA and taking on the Over the Edge challenge to help raise funds for United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States. Help Lisa and Team DRA make an even bigger impact by supporting their fundraising efforts.

💙 Donate today: https://bit.ly/4g0r4+

08/20/2026

Preparing students for the future starts long before they enter the workforce.

With support from a $10,000 DRA Core Grant, Junior Achievement of the Heartland delivered 211 programs to 4,189 students across 30 schools and youth-serving organizations throughout Dubuque County during the 2025-2026 school year.

From financial literacy and entrepreneurship to career exploration, students gained real-world skills through hands-on learning experiences led by 132 community volunteers. This year also marked the launch of the new JA Speaker Series and expanded partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque and the DBQ Dream Center Academy .

By connecting students with local professionals and career opportunities, Junior Achievement is helping build the next generation of Dubuque's workforce.

08/18/2026

Quality healthcare depends on more than facilities and equipment. It depends on people.

A $35,000 DRA Core Grant helped Crescent Community Health Center expand its dental residency program, creating new opportunities for highly trained dental professionals while increasing access to care for local patients.

Crescent is now the only organization in Iowa outside of the University of Iowa offering an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency program. During the program's first year, three residents provided care to approximately 3,000 patients, helping reduce wait times and expand access to essential dental services.

Investments in workforce development don't just strengthen organizations. They strengthen entire communities.

08/14/2026

A place where imagination comes to life—and families create lasting memories.

The Butler Children's Garden Foundation recently completed Year 1 of its two-year, $100,000 DRA Mission Grant ($50,000 annually), helping bring the magic of The Wanderwood Gardens to life. From essential maintenance equipment and a new website to hiring its first seasonal team members, these investments have helped create an extraordinary destination for children and families.

Since opening, Wanderwood Gardens has welcomed nearly 9,000 visitors and more than 1,200 member families, making it one of the region's newest places to explore, play, and connect with nature.

Address

1855 Greyhound Park Road
Dubuque, IA
52001

Telephone

(563) 585-2971

Website

http://dradubuque.com/

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