Though Mack had an auditory processing disorder, he was able to flourish because from a young age, he was receiving the help he needed. As parents of a child with a learning disability, we understand the fear and overwhelming frustration that comes with recognizing that there may be a problem. However, David and I knew that in Mack's best interest, we had to face the issue head on, with eyes wide open. We were told early on that we must be Mack's advocates, that we must stand up for him and that is exactly what we did. We began the long process of getting an assessment and then we worked hard to get the proper treatment. What mattered most was not that our child needed help, it was that he received the help he needed.

The Mack Belson Foundation, established at The Jewish Community Foundation of Montreal (JCF) is dedicated to fostering the full potential of young children with learning disabilities, challenges and developmental delays, by focusing on early intervention and support. Supplemented by generous donations from the community, our foundation helps children by assessing their needs at an early age. With this early assessment and intervention, we give children in need a head start, provide support and teach them that their challenges will not define nor limit who they are.