The Housing Assistance Council (HAC) honors the memory of President Jimmy Carter. whose legacy extends far beyond his remarkable tenure as the 39th President of the United States. He was a tireless advocate for affordable housing and a beacon of hope for millions of people around the world.

Born and raised in rural Georgia, and a one-time resident of public housing, James Earl Carter Jr. proudly carried his small-town roots to the White House where he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the cause of affordable housing. As President, he expanded federal housing programs for families in need, established the Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) and signed the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) into law.

After leaving the White House, he dedicated much of his time and energy to self-help housing with HAC’s long-time partner Habitat for Humanity. His hands-on approach—working alongside volunteers to construct homes—embodied his belief that everyone deserves a safe, decent place to live. President Carter provided tangible housing solutions and raised global awareness of affordable housing’s role in guaranteeing the health, wealth and freedom of everyday people.

HAC and several of our staff had the honor of building homes alongside President Carter, witnessing firsthand his passion for affordable housing. He inspired us to strive for a future where everyone has a place to call home. We especially recall the rural perspective he brought as a farmer and small businessman from Plains, Georgia. He was willing to work and sweat and help others. His legacy will live on in the homes built, the lives changed, and the communities strengthened by his dedication.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Carter family and express our profound gratitude for President Carter’s lifetime of service and advocacy. As we mourn his loss, we remain committed to advancing the cause of affordable housing in his honor.