Federal Program to Fight Terrorism Takes Shape in Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - A federal pilot program designed to combat terror recruiting among Minnesota's Somali youth is beginning to take shape.

U.S. Attorney Andy Luger spoke about the program's progress ahead of a Wednesday afternoon announcement. He said the ideas being implemented are the product of months of meetings with Somali community leaders, imams, government representatives and corporations.

Luger said the pilot project will include leadership and mentorship programs.

Private entities, such as the Mall of America, have kicked in funding.

An organization called Youthprise, which invests in opportunities for youth, will allocate grant money to groups seeking funding, leaving Luger's office out of the financial process.

Luger said the new initiatives are the right thing to do for the community, which has been a target for terror recruiters.