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Meet Your Neighbor: Meet the Neighbor: Sonia McTaggart-Anderson
By: Callie Thomas
From an early age, resident Sonia McTaggart-Anderson has upheld the belief passed on from her mother that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Those words of wisdom do not come from a woman who has led a privileged life but rather, one that has overcome much–some would say more than one could possibly endure—to give her children a good life. Sonia is the sixth child of eight who were all raised in British Guiana, now Guyana South America. She grew up in a village with no running water or electricity. Everyone in the family worked in the farms and rice fields to put food on the table. Her father was relentlessly abusive to her mother as well as the children. One by one, her brothers and sisters were sent off to live with other members of the family so that they could go to school and escape the horrors of their daily life.
Sonia recalls her mother scrimping and saving enough to buy school supplies, books, uniforms and bus fare so that they could get an education. Even with extreme challenges, Sonia excelled at school and got her first job at 16 with the Royal Bank of Canada. With the help of relatives she came to the United States at the age of 17, finding work in the garment district, and in the years following married, had a son and obtained scholarships to enroll in a college in New York. She graduated with honors and embarked on a career in finance which she enjoyed for nearly twenty years. For over two decades, inspired by her own struggles and triumphs, Sonia has been donating her time and resources to help improve the lives of children in addition to working and raising her family. She founded the Andson Foundation, which currently assists thousands of children and youths at organizations throughout the valley to give them a better life. Sonia talks of her extraordinary story and why ensuring others are afforded a good life means everything.
You led an incredibly challenging life as a youth—what do you think helped you through it all?
“My drive and self-confidence that was bestowed upon me by my mother, (without whom I would not have survived) and caring strangers who saw the potential in me [helped me through it all]. I believe that I am here today for a purpose. There were so many reasons and situations that I should not have survived, but here I am. I utilize each day to achieve something new and touch another life.”
What does giving back mean to you?
“My mother (who did not have a first grade education) was instrumental in making sure I had an education. Looking back, I realize I was given an opportunity for a tremendously blessed life that I now so proudly enjoy, and to which much has been given. I joyfully give back as much as I can to my siblings, my extended family, staff and to thousands of non-related kids on a daily basis.”
You’ve assisted many charitable organizations but tell us about the Andson Foundation.
“My happiness comes from changing the lives of anyone in need. What I enjoy most is making a difference in the lives of children and helping them excel. Along with my son and my husband, we do just that on a daily basis through the Andson Foundation. Our belief is that by delivering both financial and educational support to students, we will aid not only in their academic careers, but also in their personal development. Our programs develop and empower students to achieve sound and promising futures.
Our goal is to install a lifelong love of learning in every child through academic assistance and to provide social mobility by way of financial education. We’ve provided tens of thousands of hours of lessons and tutoring through partnerships with the Boys and Girls Clubs, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, Communities in Schools, Bracken Elementary School and Bridger Middle School, Chaparral High School and Desert Oasis High School. Several other centers and elementary schools are scheduled to launch in the coming weeks. It is so important to change attitudes and behaviors and instill a lifelong love of learning. Education will end the cycle of poverty and lack of confidence for the disadvantaged. It did for me.”
Do you have any inspiration to give others?
“Success doesn’t come without hard work. Opportunities only knock once so seize them eagerly. Always remember the people that helped you along the way, and a sibling will always be the best friend you will ever have.”
I am so proud of Sonia. She is the daughter I always wanted! She has been a shining light in so many lives. Best wishes for her continued success.
Dear Sonia,
You are truly an inspiration–and a human dynamo!
Thank you for your good work and truly making a difference in the lives of so many.
I am so proud to have met you.
Lynn Edwards
I must tell you that I am proud of the woman you have become. Although our early years was hot too pleasant, everyone of those experiences thought us valuable lessons. I think we were both blessed to be friends in our early years. Continue doing the good job you are doing. luv