PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Former President Jimmy Carter never visited Berkshire County but the impact of his post-presidential efforts can be seen every day here. 

 

Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, are easily the most famous volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, which has chapters in both Central and North Berkshire. For more than 35 years, they helped to build affordable housing with the organization.

 

"I had the opportunity to meet President Carter and Rosalynn a few times in Atlanta over the years. I believe they are truly the most caring and thoughtful people in the world and represent the best of humanity," said Central Berkshire Habitat's CEO Carolyn Valli.

 

Central Berkshire Habitat was established in 1992 and serves Central and Southern Berkshire County.  

 

James Carter died on Dec. 29 at age 100; Rosalynn last year in November at age 96. Carter only served one term as president, from 1977 to 1981. 

 

They first volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Americus, Ga., near their home of Plains, in March 1984. Later that same year, the Carters joined Habitat volunteers in New York City's Lower East Side to renovate an abandoned building in partnership with families in need of affordable housing. That trip marked Habitat for Humanity's first Jimmy Carter Work Project (later renamed the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project). 

 

"We are deeply saddened by President Carter's passing, and our prayers are with the rest of the Carter family," said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. "President and Mrs. Carter began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity near their home in southwest Georgia, soon bringing worldwide attention to the need for decent and affordable housing. We are grateful for the incredible impact the Carters have had on Habitat and on the families who have benefited from their shining example. The Carters put Habitat for Humanity on the map, and their legacy will live on in every family we serve around the world."