UPDATE: Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts (NCM) held an urgent rally this week to honor the enduring legacy of President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter. This event, part of the 39th annual Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, marked a poignant moment as it was the first since President Carter’s passing.
Thousands of volunteers across the nation are currently mobilizing to further Habitat’s mission of affordable homeownership, making this rally a timely tribute to the Carters’ impact. The rally took place on November 1, 2023, at the Habitat NCM duplex in Ayer, Massachusetts, where community spirit and dedication to service were palpable.
During the weeklong event, participants gathered to emphasize the critical importance of homeownership. The Carters have been champions of this cause since the first Carter Work Project in 1984, which transformed a six-story apartment building in New York City into affordable housing.
“Today, we come together to honor President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, two remarkable individuals whose lives have embodied the very mission of Habitat for Humanity,” said Carolyn Read, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity NCM, during a heartfelt address at the Ayer build site. “Their example reminds us that building a home is about more than wood and nails — it’s about creating hope, dignity, and belonging.”
The rally was not just a tribute; it was a call to action. Volunteers, students, and community representatives joined forces to reflect on the Carters’ profound influence on the organization and the wider community. The event also featured a special lunch celebrating the Carters’ legacy, fostering connections and inspiring continued efforts in affordable housing.
In a powerful display of gratitude, Read highlighted the ongoing work in Ayer and the importance of community involvement: “Because of your commitment, families will be home for the holidays — a gift that truly honors the spirit of the Carters’ work.”
Habitat NCM operates under the mantra of offering a hand up, not a handout, to hardworking, low-income families. Their mission is supported by dedicated volunteers and generous donations, making a tangible difference in the lives of families seeking affordable homeownership.
In addition to their housing initiatives, Habitat NCM operates a ReStore in Leominster, which sells discounted materials to fund their projects. A relocation of this ReStore is set for December 11, 2023, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for the new location at 650 North Main St.
This rally is not just a remembrance; it’s a reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together to uphold a shared mission. As volunteers and supporters continue to build homes and hope, the legacy of the Carters remains a guiding light in the fight for affordable housing.
Stay tuned for more updates on how Habitat for Humanity NCM continues to honor the Carters’ impactful work and the ongoing efforts to provide families with a safe and stable place to call home.
