(Radio Iowa) – The warmer weather is bringing all sorts of creatures into Iowans’ yards — including those who are trying to sell us something. Bao Vang, at the Better Business Bureau, says many door-to-door salespeople are legitimate, but not all of them are on the up-and-up. Vang says, “The BBB warns that some of these people though can be con artists and looking to take their cash without doing any work or poor work or looking to steal your identity.”

That person selling magazines, vinyl siding, or crates of oranges may be trying to raise money for a local school marching band, or they could be looking to make a fast buck, then move on.  “So the next time you hear a knock on the door and a salesperson is on the other side, the BBB wants you to have a plan for interacting with them,” she says.

Vang says it’s important to ask about licensing, check identification and verify the person and the company. She also recommends reading any contracts closely, and don’t give in to high-pressure sales tactics.

Atlantic, Iowa, June 25, 2021 – Officials with TS Bank announced Friday, they have partnered with SHIFT ATL in Atlantic,  to help local neighborhoods through a new program called AMP, which provides funding for direct homeowner projects, neighborhood block initiatives and down payment assistance. Applications are open now through August 15, 2021. Recipient(s) in the Atlantic area will be awarded up to $5,000 in prize money for their particular project. TS Bank is the lead sponsor donating $2,500 to SHIFT ATL for the AMP program. In addition to SHIFT ATL, other contributing sponsors include Cass/Atlantic Development Corporation, Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce, Meyer and Gross Real Estate and Cass Health.

Individuals are encouraged to nominate themselves or a neighbor who needs assistance with outdoor housing needs. Project requests can range from landscaping, siding, painting, fencing, driveways, sidewalks, windows, roofing and exterior doors. SHIFT ATL Board Member, Mallory Robinson says “When SHIFT ATL learned of an opportunity to partner with TS Bank on the AMP for neighborhoods initiative, it was a no-brainer for us. Both TS Bank and SHIFT ATL have a mission to use resources within their organization, coupled with projects and partnerships with their communities, for the betterment of the communities we live in. This initiative is another partnership we are eager to be involved in, and feel it will create a ripple effect for years to come!”

TS Bank Director of Public Relations, Kelsey Stupfell says “We consider it a great honor to reinvest in our local communities. We are excited to launch AMP and collaborate with local leaders, nonprofit organizations and community members to help make a lasting impact in our neighborhoods.”

To apply for AMP, or to nominate someone, view the application here.