Remembering President Carter

Remembering President Carter

Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity joins the world in mourning the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, whose dedication to Habitat for Humanity created a lasting legacy. President Carter’s efforts shone a spotlight on the global need for affordable housing and brought hope to families around the world.

In 1989, he led the Carter Work Project in Milwaukee, which was one of the most ambitious builds in Milwaukee Habitat’s history. Plagued with steady, chilly rain, the Milwaukee build was in danger of falling behind schedule. During a live TV interview, President Carter asked for help from local roofers. The next morning, roofers arrived in droves, completing all the roofs in a single day. Thanks to their efforts, alongside the Carters and more than 1,000 volunteers, six homes were completed in just five days.

The success of the Carter Work Project and the Carters’ unwavering dedication brought significant attention and support to Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity. This momentum propelled the organization forward, helping it grow into what it is today.

Cheryl Hayes, a Milwaukee Habitat Homeowner from the Carter Work Project, shares her reflections on this transformative event, offering a heartfelt glimpse into that memorable June of 1989 when President Carter’s presence made a profound difference in Milwaukee: 

Please join us in remembering him and celebrating the profound impact President Carter made around the world.

For more on President Jimmy Carter’s lasting impact on Milwaukee, explore the following news coverage:

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

“These Milwaukeeans remember when Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter helped build their homes”

TMJ4

“Habitat for Humanity CEO remembers Jimmy Carter’s impact on homebuilding in Milwaukee”

“Milwaukee homeowners remember President Jimmy Carter’s impact in the community”

WISN

“‘A God gift’: How Jimmy Carter transformed a Milwaukee street”

FOX6

“President Jimmy Carter; Milwaukee neighbors share his impact”