With greyhound racing drawing to a close in a matter of days, Q Casino President/CEO Alex Dixon knows there's bound to be some confusion about the state of the Dubuque Racing Association (DRA).

Rest assured, the DRA isn't going anywhere.

Founded in 1985, it has been instrumental to the continued growth and prosperity of Dubuque.

Alex stopped in studio to discuss the future of the DRA in lieu of the closing of Iowa Greyhound Park, which is set to have its final races on May 15th, 2022.

"We have two hats that we wear at the Q Casino and DRA," Alex proudly stated. "With the DRA, we partner up with Diamond Jo and the Q Casino, and [with that] we're able to announce our grant program."

The DRA is presently offering two different grants: the core grant and the mission grant. Non-profits are able to apply for a core grant of up to $50,000.

Alex affirmed that these are opportunities tailormade with the future in mind. The long-term vision is at play with the grants the DRA is offering.

"We really have a focus on raising the population of Dubuque," Alex said. "We want to make sure we are able to bring folks together to make sure that we are able to raise the number of people who live, work, and play right here."

Alex was talking to somebody in me who fits the bill with his mission, having just relocated to this community. I've already heard about how much Dubuque has grown in the last several decades from dozens of people I've met thus far. It's only going up from here.

"We're very proud of the history that racing has played within our community," Alex said. "It has provided us an opportunity to really grow the hospitality community here in Dubuque. But now we need to take that next step. We need to move forward. And [the DRA] is a great opportunity for our philanthropic community [and charities] to apply for grants that we make at the Q Casino and Diamond Jo."

Like most great things, it's a team effort.

"We need your help to take this community forward," said Alex towards the end of our conversation.

You can find more information about the DRA on their website. You can also learn more about the grant process here.

You can also take a listen to my interview with Alex Dixon below!

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