The latest from the DRA

⛳️ This morning, team members from DRA and Q Casino and Resort hit the greens for the University of Dubuque Golf Outing! We're proud to support UD student-athletes and contribute to their success on and off the field. A big thank you to everyone who participated and made this event a hole-in-one! #WithDRA

Help Team DRA support United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States  by sending Q Casino and Resort and Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque team members Over the Edge of the MidWestOne Bank building on September 13! 🎉
Make your donation today and choose which brave participant you want to support. Let's make a difference together!  https://bit.ly/3Wc4zL5
#BattleOfTheCasinos #OverTheEdge #UnitedWay #WithDRA #TeamDRA

🎆 Happy 4th of July! 🎆

Enjoy the fireworks, BBQs, and time with loved ones. Wishing you a fun and safe Independence Day from all of us at the DRA!✨

A huge thank you to the US Army Golden Knights and Radio Dubuque for the awesome jump outside Q Casino and Resort today! This spectacular event kicks off 4th of July celebrations this week. Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day in Dubuque! #USArmyGoldenKnights #IndependenceDay

The Dubuque Jaycees Annual Fireworks and Air Show is happening on July 3rd at AY McDonald Park and below Lock and Dam 11. It's going to be an amazing celebration, and we at DRA are proud to be part of it. For more details, visit Radio Dubuque. See you there! #WithDRA Q Casino and Resort

Watch the video on our Facebook page.

Yesterday, team members from Q Casino and Resort/DRA had a fantastic time participating in the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council's Annual Golf Outing. We're proud to support such an awesome organization! ⛳️✨ #CommunitySupport #WithDRA

Team members from Q Casino and Resort and the DRA teed off at the Dubuque Community Y's Annual Golf Classic today. All proceeds support the YMCA's annual campaign, benefiting kids, families, adults, and seniors in our community. What a perfect day to play for such a great cause! ⛳ #CommunitySupport #WithDRA

Honoring Juneteenth today, a pivotal moment in American history marking the end of slavery and the beginning of freedom for all. Let’s reflect on the progress we've made and continue working towards equality and justice. Together, we can build a brighter future. ❤️🖤💚#Juneteenth #FreedomDay

Q Casino and Resort, challenge accepted! The Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque is ready to go Over the Edge for United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States. Let’s show them who can make the biggest impact for our community! #BattleOfTheCasinos #OverTheEdge #UnitedWay #WithDRA #TeamDRA https://give.overtheedge.events/42P6B4?ref=ab_5DUEN9

Check out the video on Facebook!

Hey Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque, we’ve got a challenge for you! Kathy and Alex from Q Casino and Resort are ready to go Over the Edge for United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States. Let's see who can raise the most money the fastest! Are you up for it? #BattleOfTheCasinos #OverTheEdge #UnitedWay #WithDRA #TeamDRA https://give.overtheedge.events/42P6B4?ref=ab_5DUEN9

Check out the video on Facebook!

We are thrilled and honored to be named the YP Sponsor of the Year by the Young Professionals Dubuque! Thank you to the YP community for this incredible recognition. Here's to many more years of collaboration and success together!

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the Memorial Day Parade on Schmitt Island! It was incredibly moving to witness our community united in honoring our veterans. Your participation and support made this event truly memorable. We are deeply grateful to the brave veterans who have served our nation, as well as to all those who took part, organized, and contributed to the success of the parade. 

Check out the photo album on Facebook. #MemorialDay
 

Honoring and remembering the brave men and women who sacrificed everything for our freedom this Memorial Day. Hope to see everyone at the Memorial Day Parade starting at noon today! #MemorialDay

Thank you, Galena Center for the Arts, for sharing an inspiring update and photos of your Junior Advisory Board project funded by our $4,220 DRA Core Grant! We are thrilled to see young leaders develop their skills and make a positive impact through art and community events. Keep up the fantastic work! #WithDRA

Check out the incredible transformation at Audrey's Place, made possible in part by the $25,000 Core Grant from DRA to the Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa & Western Il! The upgraded cabin at Camp Little Cloud now offers enhanced overnight capacity and ADA accessible accommodations, opening up new opportunities for visitors to enjoy the Dubuque area. #WithDRA

⏰ Reminder: DRA Core Grants applications are due by the end of day TOMORROW, May 17! Apply now for up to $50,000 in funding for your project. Don't wait until the last minute! https://www.dradubuque.com/ 

Join us for the Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 27 on Schmitt Island! The parade kicks off at noon from the back of Q Casino and Resort parking lot, followed by a ceremony at Veterans Memorial Plaza. Food trucks will be available after the ceremony. Don't forget your lawn chairs for a memorable day! #MemorialDay #Parade #Veterans

⏰ Reminder: DRA Core Grants applications are due THIS Friday, May 17! Organizations can apply for funding up to $50,000 for their projects. Submit your application before the deadline. https://bit.ly/44FvgKy 

Thanks to Four Mounds Foundation and Inn & Conference Center for sharing updates on their $25,000 DRA Core Grant project! Your progress towards a new workforce training facility is inspiring, and we're proud to support initiatives like the HEART Building Futures program. Together, we're making a real difference in our communities. #WithDRA

DRA Core Grants applications are NOW OPEN! Organizations can apply for up to $50,000 in funding for their projects. Submit your application by Friday, May 17! https://www.dradubuque.com/ 

Thank you to the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council for giving us a glimpse into their fantastic initiatives! From empowering 8th Grade Girls in the Trades, Spanish Speaking events, and Apprenticeship Tours for electricians, their dedication shines through. The DRA is proud to support their mission with a $20,000 DRA Core Grant in 2023. Together, we're "Retaining our Youth in the Tri-States."  #WithDRA

DRA Core Grants open on May 6! Organizations can apply for up to $50,000 in funding for their projects. Visit our website to review the guidelines and mark your calendars to apply! https://www.dradubuque.com/grant-process 

Thank you to the City of Maquoketa for sharing photos from their April 6 groundbreaking event for the Maquoketa Central Square project. The DRA provided the initial $25,000 Core Grant for the site preparation. #WithDRA

Rain or shine, we're proud to roll up our sleeves and make a difference in our beloved Dubuque community! Huge thanks to our team members from DRA and Q Casino for joining forces during Dubuque Days of Caring cleaning up downtown neighborhoods! #WithDRA

🌍 Happy Earth Day! ♻️ Let's celebrate by recycling, volunteering, shopping wisely, and eating locally to support our planet. Together, we can make a difference! 🌱 #EarthDay

🌟 Tomorrow is the deadline for DRA Mission Grants! 🌟
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/

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

The deadline for DRA Mission Grants is quickly approaching—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/

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.

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

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!

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/

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

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

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

🍀 Wishing you a day filled with luck and laughter! Happy St. Patrick's Day! 🌈#StPatricksDay

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

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 📅

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

Save the Date! 📅 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

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

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... 

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

🌟 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! 💙 #RandomActsofKindness

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

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. 

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

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

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

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 

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
 

Did you know? 

This #TriviaDay, we thought we’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

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

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

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

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

The DRA had a fantastic visit to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, exploring the Rivers to the Sea exhibit!  We’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

Exciting times at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque as the DRA explores their new Arts & Crafts Room! 🎨 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

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
 

Don't miss the latest Dubuque Rising podcast episode featuring Mayor Brad Cavanagh! 🎙️ 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 🎧

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 

 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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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 

During the Autumn Adventure, we’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! 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

⏰ Hours: 15-20 hours per week
💰 Pay: $16/hour
✉️ Apply: https://bit.ly/3qhInSA #Hiring #JoinOurTeam

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

⛳ 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!

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 – listen now! https://bit.ly/45nQbBh #DubuqueRisingPodcast

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

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

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.

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.