As we reflect on the recent passing of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, the Pickens County Habitat for Humanity community honors her enduring legacy. A beacon of social justice, mental health advocacy, and humanitarian efforts, Mrs. Carter's passing leaves a profound legacy that continues to inspire and guide us.
As a First Lady who reshaped the role through her active policy involvement and international engagement, Rosalynn Carter set a new standard for what it means to serve in public life. Her unrelenting advocacy for mental health and human rights has been a source of hope and progress worldwide.
Rosalynn, together with her husband, President Jimmy Carter, has been an integral part of the Habitat for Humanity story. Their first involvement with the organization dates back to 1984 in Americus, Georgia. This marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to affordable housing, eventually leading to the establishment of the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Their efforts have mobilized thousands of volunteers, transformed the lives of numerous families, and truly embodied the essence of community and compassion that Habitat for Humanity stands for.
“We grieve the loss of Mrs. Carter and our prayers are with President Carter and their family. Mrs. Carter has helped change the lives of thousands of homeowners, empowered countless women and inspired millions of people. Over the years, she has blessed us with her compassion for serving others and commitment to improving housing conditions,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO, Habitat for Humanity International. “The Carters lent a hand to Habitat for Humanity as a young, fledging organization and created global awareness of our work and of our mission. We are grateful for the incredible impact she and President Carter have had on Habitat and on the families who have benefited from their shining example.”
After leaving the White House, the Carters planned meaningful ways to continue their commitment to social justice and basic human rights. Their first volunteer experience with Habitat for Humanity was in March 1984 near their home in Americus, Georgia, where Habitat for Humanity was founded. Later that same year, the Carters joined Habitat volunteers in New York City’s Lower East Side to renovate an abandoned building in partnership with families in need of affordable housing. That marked Habitat for Humanity’s first Jimmy Carter Work Project, which was later renamed to the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Since then, President and Mrs. Carter have worked with more than 104,000 volunteers across the U.S. and in 14 countries to build, renovate and repair 4,390 Habitat homes. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has served more than 46 million people around the world.
In 2016, Habitat named President and Mrs. Carter as the inaugural Habitat Humanitarians for their extraordinary dedication to service in alignment with Habitat’s vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate Rosalynn Carter’s remarkable life of service. Habitat for Humanity will be holding local observances to honor Mrs. Carter's legacy. For more information or to share a tribute, please visit habitat.org.
Rosalynn Carter's passing is not only a loss to her family and close acquaintances but to all who have been touched by her unwavering dedication to bettering the world. In her memory, we continue our mission, striving for a world where everyone has a decent place to call home. Our thoughts remain with the Carter family during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Rosalynn Carter. Your legacy lives on in the homes and hearts you’ve helped build.
