Fort Collins, CO, May 17, 2011 - Funding Partners, a not-for-profit community development financial institution, is pleased to recognize FirstBank for its generous support of affordable housing needs in Colorado.��

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FirstBank has awarded Funding Partners $15,000 to help offset overhead expenses attributed to Funding Partners� numerous statewide residential purchase assistance programs, including the new Funding Partners Down Payment Assistance program offered in cooperation with FirstBank.

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FirstBank�s Northern Market President, Pat Brady, commented �Since 1998, FirstBank has recognized the value of a responsible, flexible and mission driven partner in the affordable housing arena.� That is why FirstBank and Funding Partners have faired better than most lenders during the recent economic downturn.� FirstBank was the original bank investor for Funding Partners contributing $1,500,000 in program funding and over $150,000 in annual operating support over the years.�� ��

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Funding Partners has worked extensively with FirstBank in the launch of a new down payment assistance program, offered to low to moderate income first time homebuyers participating with FirstBank for their primary mortgage.�� The down payment and closing cost assistance program was launched January 1, 2011 utilizing FirstBank investment funds recycled from the H2O program.�

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FirstBank has been an integral part of Funding Partners success since the inception of the company, providing continuous financial support through grant and investment contributions.� Funding Partners is excited to continue our partnership with FirstBank and develop new programs together that address the needs of our local community while meeting organizational objectives.

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According to Tom Hemmings, President of the Funding Partners Board of Trustees, the continued support offered by FirstBank is unprecedented.� �Not only was FirstBank instrumental in development of the organization, but successive leadership within the bank has proven critical to the success of Funding Partners.�� Hemmings continues, �FirstBank recognizes the mutual value each entity delivers to the community and each other, reinforced through local partnerships and executive-level commitment to the financial well-being of Funding Partners.�

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For more information visit www.fundingpartners.org