DRA

We're proud to announce the recipients of the DRA's 2026 Mission Grants!

This year, DRA is investing in transformative projects that will strengthen our region through tourism, population attraction, retention, and quality of life.

Congratulations to:
⚽ Dubuque Soccer Club – Shared Turf, Shared Future
⚾ Dyersville Events – Professional Ballpark at the The Field of Dreams Movie Site
🌳 Butler Children's Garden Foundation – The Wanderwood Gardens (Year 2 of a multi-year commitment)

Together, these projects represent a $250,000 investment in initiatives that will create lasting impact across our communities.

Read the full press release here:https://www.dradubuque.com/pdf/DRA_Mission_Grant_Release_-_6.24.26.pdf

The monthly DRA Full Board meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 23 at noon in Reflections Event Spaces at Q Casino + Resort.

Today, we commemorate Juneteenth and reflect on the ongoing pursuit of equality and opportunity for all.

A simple trail is creating big impact in Dyersville.

With a $15,000 DRA Core Grant, the Dyersville Area Community Foundation completed the first loop of a nature trail at the Michael & Jean Knepper Child Care Center - The Kid Project - Dyersville, IA. The trail gives children a safe place to explore the outdoors while also providing a walking path for employees in the 20 West Industrial Park and the broader community.

Investing in students is investing in the future of our community.

Holy Family Catholic Schools (Official) recently completed the third and final year of a $20,000 annual DRA Core Grant, totaling $60,000 over three years. The funding helped grow Holy Family’s Student Impact Fund, multiplying dollars raised through the Circle of Celebration and supporting projects that benefit every student across the school system.

Historic preservation and economic development go hand in hand.

A $10,000 DRA Core Grant helped the Driver Opera House in Darlington, Wisconsin expand its marketing efforts, resulting in double the number of performance events and triple the number of rentals during the 2025–2026 season. This beautifully restored venue continues to attract visitors from across the Tri-State region while supporting local businesses and celebrating arts and culture.

Celebrating culture. Building connection. Strengthening community.

The Multicultural Family Center recently completed the second and final year of a $25,000 DRA Core Grant supporting free cultural events that bring people together through music, dance, art, food, and shared experiences. Attendance grew from 10,529 in 2024 to more than 14,000 in 2025, reflecting the powerful role these events play in helping everyone feel welcomed, valued, and connected in Dubuque.

Building more than houses. Building futures. 🏡

Through a $50,000 DRA Mission Grant, Dubuque/Jackson County Habitat for Humanity advanced Phase I of Rosalynn Carter Place, a new affordable housing development in Dubuque. The project has already helped two families become first-time homeowners, with a third family preparing to close soon.

For three years, the DRA has proudly supported Special Olympics Iowa Winter Games with a $20,000 annual Core Grant.

Held in Dubuque, Winter Games brings hundreds of athletes, coaches, volunteers, and families from across the state to compete, connect, and celebrate. From the slopes at Sundown Mountain Resort to partnerships with local organizations like Loras College, this event showcases the inclusive spirit of our community and the powerful impact of sports.

Art has the power to connect communities and attract new audiences.

The Dubuque Museum of Art completed an organizational rebrand through a $15,000 DRA Core Grant, helping reintroduce the museum during its temporary move to the Dubuque Historic Millwork District. With a refreshed visual identity, new website, and expanded marketing efforts, DuMA is building excitement for its future campus while continuing to strengthen Dubuque’s vibrant arts and culture scene.