PRA Group Launches FACT Partnership This Autism Acceptance Month

NORFOLK, VA – PRA Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: PRAA), a global leader in acquiring and collecting nonperforming loans, is committing $15,000 to Families of Autistic Children in Tidewater (FACT) in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month.

For over 25 years, FACT has been offering social and recreational programs that motivate individuals with autism spectrum disorder to engage with peers and the community. Their programs enhance social and communication skills by utilizing similar-aged non-disabled peer volunteers and highly trained staff.

PRA Group’s contribution will help fund FACT’s social programs, such as Out-N-About. Out-N-About visits serve individuals with autism aged 13 and older who need special assistance, providing them with regular opportunities to spend time with their peers. On their latest Out-N-About adventure, they enjoyed exploring the Virginia Living Museum.

FACT’s focus on social integration helps foster awareness and acceptance of individuals with autism throughout the community. The communication skills acquired by providing positive and natural peer interactions prove to be the most impactful type of social interventions. Peer influence has a profound long-lasting effect on an individual’s outlook for the future. FACT’s goal is to ensure those influences are positively motivating.

“Children and young adults with autism gain ambition and confidence by being immersed in community activities and surrounded by positive role models,” said Tyler Williamson, Executive Director of FACT. “We have had the honor of witnessing so many ‘firsts’: first time swimming, playing on a team, ordering own food, attending a dance, and even making a friend. The self-assurance gained from so many ‘firsts’ has led to extraordinary paths such as meaningful employment and even college, and we could not do it without sponsors like PRA Group.”

“PRA Group is grateful for this opportunity to support FACT in providing a supportive community and a sense of fulfillment and self-confidence,” said Alexandra Bitonti, manager of community engagement and events. “We are excited to help promote FACT’s work during this key month while autism acceptance has national attention, but we are even more thrilled to offer our long-term support to this deserving community partner.”

Since 2009, PRA Group has contributed nearly $9.5 million to charitable causes dedicated to strengthening the vitality of communities across the globe. To stay up to date on PRA Group’s community engagement, visit www.linkedin.com/company/pragroup and follow us @PRAGroupInc on Facebook and Instagram.