Former President Jimmy Carter’s hands-on work with Habitat for Humanity has left a lasting impression in South Florida and beyond.
Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday, was renowned not only for his presidency but also for his profound contribution to humanitarian efforts. His partnership with Habitat for Humanity spanned over three decades, making significant contributions to communities in South Florida and around the world. In Broward County, Florida alone, the impact of his work is evident as 20 families prepare to move into newly built homes in Fort Lauderdale, part of Habitat’s ongoing initiatives to provide homeownership opportunities to those who might not otherwise afford them.
Carter’s legacy with Habitat for Humanity began years ago with the Jimmy Carter Work Projects. Through this initiative, he, along with volunteers, traveled to various parts of the United States and countries like Haiti to construct homes. “Habitat, wherever we’ve been in almost every country on Earth, we try to set an example. When there’s a lack of hope, look at what can be done at least on a small scale,” Carter remarked in a 7News interview years ago. His dedication was further reflected in his statement from a building site, “As I’ve said for 30 years, we’ve never been on a Habitat project that we didn’t get more out of it than we put into it.”
The commitment of Carter and his wife was unwavering; they were involved actively in building efforts across South Florida, where Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami has constructed over 1,000 homes and the Broward branch more than 600. Their presence was notable not only for the work done but for the manner in which it was executed. Nancy Robin, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Broward, recalled Carter’s work ethic, stating, “He did not take breaks and it was about work and getting these houses built and getting it done.” This hands-on approach was mirrored by his personal “sweat equity,” as explained by Nancy Daly, an honorary board member, who noted that Carter was often the last to leave the site.
Even in his later years, Carter’s dedication never wavered. At the age of 97 or 98, during one of his last builds, he suffered a fall but resumed his work shortly after being treated. This perseverance was ingrained in his character, partly influenced by his mother, Lillian, who was a Peace Corps volunteer in India. Thirteen years ago, during an interview, Carter shared a story of a woman in Haiti, whose mother he taught to read. “Years later, he said, he crossed paths with the now-adult woman. ‘She said I’m the president of a university!'” This anecdote highlights the ripple effect of Carter’s work beyond construction, influencing lives and offering hope.
Carter’s life was punctuated by a genuine effort to make a difference. Nancy Robin spoke of the emotion tied to his efforts, “When you reflect back and look at the images of him and the videos of him that were captured doing that work, the emotion was so very real of making a difference in the lives of others.” His passing serves as a reminder of the significant work Habitat for Humanity continues to do and the lasting legacy left by Carter’s selfless contributions.
The dedication of Jimmy Carter to humanitarian work through Habitat for Humanity remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community service. His legacy in South Florida, marked by tireless efforts and tangible results, continues to inspire future generations to contribute positively to society.
Source: Wsvn
