Jimmy Carter's legacy lives on in Minnesota through Habitat for Humanity

MINNEAPOLIS -- The world is mourning the loss of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. Serving from 1977 to 1981, Carter dedicated the years following his presidency to advocating for civil rights and public health initiatives. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and spent over a year in hospice care, enduring the loss of his wife, Rosalynn, who died last year at the age of 96.

Carter's legacy continues to resonate in Minnesota, particularly through the efforts of individuals like Leandra Estis in St. Paul. Estis's family had long faced barriers to homeownership, and after witnessing the destruction of their Rondo community by the construction of Interstate 94 in the 1960s, she resolved to reclaim their heritage. With the support of Habitat for Humanity, she aimed to demonstrate to her family their worth and potential for homeownership.

Through her journey, Estis not only worked on building homes for others but also saved to acquire her own. She emphasized the profound impact of homeownership, stating that it is about more than just acquiring property—it signifies personal worth and empowerment. The lessons she learned throughout the process underscored the significance of claiming a place that true belongs to her family.

Habitat for Humanity, founded nearly 50 years ago by a coalition of Black and White farmers in Georgia, aligns closely with Carter's values. The former president played a key role in bringing attention to the organization, enabling it to bridge racial divides through homeownership. Chad Bouley, who leads Habitat’s Twin Cities chapter, noted that Carter's involvement brought critical resources and support, helping approximately 100 families in the area secure homes each year.

As new housing projects, including a townhouse complex in Minneapolis, are developed, Carter’s commitment to the cause remains evident. Estis expressed deep gratitude, wishing she could tell him how his efforts enabled her family's journey toward homeownership. Habitat for Humanity continues to rely on the support of volunteers and individuals dedicated to making a difference, offering opportunities for those inspired to contribute to this important mission.