Its first chapter was established here in San Antonio, making homeownership accessible to families in need.
The former peanut farmer and Navy veteran served only one term in office, seeing the highs of negotiating the Camp David Accords, bringing peace between Egypt and Israel, and the lows of the Iranian hostage crisis.
His term ended in 1981, but he then went on to a long life of humanitarian work.
And his legacy both in and out of the Oval Office is still felt here in San Antonio today, including his work with Habitat for Humanity.
Its first chapter was established here in San Antonio, making homeownership accessible to families in need.
They are saddened by the former president’s passing.
In a statement, CEO Jonathan Reckford said Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn put Habitat for Humanity on the map, and their legacy lives on in every family they serve around the world.
The San Antonio chapter also echoed similar sentiments when we spoke with them last year.
After Mr. Carter entered hospice care, the organization put a spotlight on him and his wife’s contributions.
The couple began volunteering with the non-profit in 1984 and did so for decades thereafter.
They even established the Carter Work Project, which has become Habitat’s annual home building blitz.
The Carter’s never made it to a Habitat site in San Antonio, but the owner of the very first Habitat home here locally was grateful.
He told me without Habitat for Humanity, his family wouldn’t have their home on the west side.
And that’s not the only way Mr. Carter made a lasting impact on San Antonio.
In 1978, he signed legislation establishing the San Antonio missions as a national historical park.
It was a decision praised by preservationists and historians for his efforts to protect the historic structures on the south side.
Since then the park has received additional designations while continuing to function as Catholic parishes.
As for Habitat, they will be celebrating President Carter’s life of service with local observances.
To learn more or to share a tribute, visit their website.