Volunteer Iowa announced the availability of federal funding in the form of AmeriCorps state program grants. AmeriCorps is a National Service program that helps meet community needs through the efforts of AmeriCorps members. AmeriCorps members serving in Iowa tutor at-risk youths, provide substance abuse outreach, build low-income housing, restore habitats, assist refugees in accessing health care and more. Applicants may do similar activities or use members to address other identified needs in their community. Visit the Funding Opportunities section of the IowaGrants website at www.iowagrants.gov. Application materials are also available upon request via email to Volunteer Iowa at americorps@iowaeda.com. Required pre-applications for returning programs are due Oct. 8 and new applicants have an option of rolling due dates starting with Nov. 12.