DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Ten AmeriCorps programs in Iowa will receive $2.7 million for projects that include mentoring youth at risk for dropping out of school, building Habitat for Humanity homes, and improving public lands and trails through habitat restoration. U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin says the money comes from the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency that encourages volunteer work. The focus of many of the programs is getting young people involved in community service.

Grants go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley, Community Corrections Improvement Association, the Des Moines Independent Community School District, city of Dubuque, Graceland University, Habitat for Humanity of Iowa, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa Legal Aid, Iowa Western Community College and the United Way of East Central Iowa.