Throughout his life, President Jimmy Carter was known for his commitment to humanitarian efforts, with one of the most prominent and enduring causes being his work with Habitat for Humanity. Since the late 1980s, Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, dedicated significant time and effort to helping build homes for those in need through this organization, which aims to provide affordable housing for families struggling with poverty. Their involvement not only transformed lives but also helped raise awareness about the importance of decent, affordable housing worldwide.
The Birth of Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller, with the goal of providing affordable housing for low-income families. The organization operates on the principle that everyone deserves a safe and decent place to live, regardless of their income or background. Through volunteer labor and donations, Habitat helps families build and own their own homes, with an emphasis on providing homes that are affordable and sustainable.
It wasn’t until the late 1980s that President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, became personally involved with the organization. Carter, who had been out of the White House for several years, had always been a strong advocate for affordable housing. He and Rosalynn were introduced to Habitat for Humanity by a mutual friend, and they quickly became some of the organization’s most dedicated volunteers.
A Hands-On Approach to Service
President Carter’s involvement with Habitat for Humanity has been notable for its hands-on nature. Unlike many public figures who lend their names to charitable causes without directly participating in the work, Carter and his wife actively worked alongside volunteers to help build homes. They spent countless hours on construction sites, hammering nails, painting walls, and providing physical labor to help build homes for families in need.
In 1984, Carter and Rosalynn traveled to New York City to participate in a Habitat project. That same year, they helped organize the first “Jimmy Carter Work Project,” a week-long event where volunteers, including former President Carter, would gather to help build homes. Since then, the Jimmy Carter Work Project has become an annual tradition, drawing thousands of volunteers each year and taking place in communities across the U.S. and around the world.
Carter’s hands-on approach sent a powerful message about the importance of service and community involvement. His belief in “getting your hands dirty” alongside other volunteers set an example for others to follow and inspired countless people to join the cause.
Expanding Habitat’s Reach Globally
While Carter’s involvement with Habitat for Humanity initially began in the United States, his efforts helped expand the organization’s reach to a global scale. Under his leadership, Habitat for Humanity grew significantly, working in more than 70 countries and building thousands of homes worldwide. Carter’s advocacy brought international attention to the issue of affordable housing and helped secure additional funding and support for Habitat’s work.
In addition to building homes, Carter’s advocacy focused on addressing the broader systemic issues that contribute to the lack of affordable housing. He spoke out about the need for government policies that would promote affordable housing and provide support for low-income families. His leadership in the fight for affordable housing went beyond construction sites and included lobbying for legislative action.
The Carter Legacy: More Than Just Homes
Through his work with Habitat for Humanity, Carter demonstrated the impact of a home extended far beyond four walls. A safe, affordable home provided not only physical shelter but also emotional stability, a sense of community, and the foundation for a better life. Carter and his wife consistently emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for families to break the cycle of poverty by giving them the tools to build a better future.
One of the most profound impacts of Carter’s involvement with Habitat was the way it changed the lives of those who receive a new home. Habitat’s model of “sweat equity,” where families contribute labor to the construction of their own homes, empowers them to take ownership of their new living space. This process builds pride, strengthens community ties, and instills a sense of self-worth.
The Carter family’s work with Habitat highlighted the importance of volunteerism and community action. Through their efforts, they inspired millions of people to join the movement, working together to build homes and make a positive difference in the lives of others.
The Carter Foundation and Continued Advocacy
In addition to their work with Habitat for Humanity, President and Rosalynn Carter’s involvement in housing advocacy continued through the Carter Center, the non-profit organization they founded in 1982. The Carter Center focuses on issues such as disease prevention, human rights, and global development, with affordable housing being one of the key areas of focus. The center has partnered with organizations around the world to help create sustainable housing solutions and provide support for families in need. Daughter Amy Carter who grew-up in the White House during President Carter’s term, is a member of the board of counselors of the Carter Center.
Carter’s legacy is also a reminder of the importance of volunteering and giving back to one’s community. He often said that the best way to find true fulfillment is to serve others, and through his partnership with Habitat for Humanity, he demonstrated the powerful difference one person can make.
A Lasting Impact
President Jimmy Carter passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024. His legacy with Habitat for Humanity remains strong. His dedication to building homes, promoting affordable housing, and advocating for social justice has not only shaped the course of the organization but has also changed the lives of countless individuals and families. His work continues to serve as an inspiration to future generations of volunteers, leaders, and advocates.
The story of Jimmy Carter and Habitat for Humanity is one of love, compassion, and selfless service. It reminds us all of the power of community and the difference we can make when we come together to help others. In the end, it’s not just about the homes built—it’s about the lives changed and the lasting impact of a life spent in service to others.
Habitat for Humanity of NE GA brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. And, through their Homeownership Program, they help people find opportunity, stability, and improve their future. Habitat homes are sold to low to moderate income Partner Families – not given away – and at no profit for Habitat and minimal interest.
Habitat sells a completed home for almost the exact cost to build it. Habitat emphasizes that the Homeownership Program is not a hand out, it’s a hand up! The Partner Families work hard to become Habitat homeowners, building alongside volunteers from the community to help construct their own home. By partnering in the building of their home, Partner Families are empowered to build a better future for themselves, their children, and many generations to come.
A home is a strong foundation on which the families who partner with Habitat can grow and thrive. It requires investment, hard work, learning, and sweat equity and Partner Families believe it is worth it!
To learn more about how to become a Habitat Partner Family or how to apply, please visit: https://habitatnega.org/home-ownership/ or email: [email protected].
