Last week, Milledgeville- Baldwin County Habitat for Humanity honored President Jimmy Carter’s life by inviting the community to sign a commemorative door.
Carter passed away on Dec. 29 and funeral services for the former president were held Jan.
9 in Plains. Known as a man who dedicated his life to the service of others, Carter was a longtime supporter of Habitat for Humanity.
According to the Habitat for Humanity website, “Every year, since 1984, Carter has donated one week of his time and his building skills to Habitat.” The Carter Work Project would take place in the United States one year and overseas the next. It helped build homes in the U.S., Asia, western India, the Philippines, and many other countries.
“While Habitat for Humanity has lost a dear friend, passionate supporter and tireless advocate, we celebrate the life of former U.S.
President Jimmy Carter.
A matchless statesman, a servant leader, a man of personal faith and public service,” states the Habitat for Humanity website on its homepage.
The commemorative door that was signed by numerous locals and local officials commemorates the impact Carter had on Habitat for Humanity and the communities it supports.
“There’s been a lot of work done in Baldwin County through Habitat for Humanity over the years. The names signed and the heartfelt messages written on the door give thanks to President Carter for his contributions to Habitat for Humanity for the role it played here and across the country,” said Baldwin County Board of Commissioners Chairman Andrew Strickland.
“When leaders use their force for good, we have to recognize that. President Carter played a part in the construction of over 4,000 houses over the years,” added Strickland.
“When someone is a living example (of good) and does work like that, we need to pay tribute to that. That is why I am very excited to have the door here and be able to thank a president who represented our state.”
According to Strickland, in Baldwin County, Habitat for Humanity has built about 19 houses.
“Habitat for Humanity is a win for everyone.
Usually, these projects take place on land that is often tax-based. You’re able to deliver the blessing of home ownership to someone who otherwise would not have access to it while, at the same time, properties are getting back into private hands and out of public hands, which benefits all citizens.”
The signed door was picked up Jan. 17 and will be permanently displayed in the Macon Area Habitat for Humanity Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Community Room, alongside a door honoring Rosalynn Carter.