This month, we honor the legacy of President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at 100. As the longest-living U.S. president, Carter dedicated his post-presidency to uplifting communities worldwide. His deep connection to Habitat for Humanity remains one of the most enduring aspects of his remarkable life.

Here in Forsyth County, we have a special connection to President Carter. Featured here is a cherished letter from October 25, 1999, addressed to President Carter by David Dutcher, a volunteer and supporter of both Old Salem and Habitat Forsyth. The letter celebrates the construction of Habitat Forsyth’s 100th home and highlights the incredible role Habitat has played in building homes, communities, and hope—an effort President Carter championed on a global scale.

President Carter’s handwritten note on the letter, wishing success and offering his personal encouragement, is a poignant reminder of his deep commitment to Habitat’s mission. His humility and genuine care for others inspired thousands to join the effort to eliminate substandard housing.

Since that milestone 100th home in 1999, Habitat Forsyth has continued to grow and serve our community, helping families achieve the dream of homeownership. As we reflect on President Carter’s life and his unwavering dedication to service, we are reminded of how his example continues to inspire our work today.

President Carter’s legacy invites all of us to take action. Whether through volunteering, donating, or supporting Habitat Forsyth’s 40th-anniversary campaign, you can help us continue the work he held so dear. Together, we can build not just homes but futures—a tribute to the extraordinary life of President Jimmy Carter.

Celebrating 40 Years of Building Hope

2025 marks Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County’s 40th anniversary—a milestone that celebrates decades of partnership, perseverance, and progress. Since 1985, we’ve empowered families through safe, affordable housing, creating lasting change in our community.

Our theme for this special year, “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Forever,” honors our legacy while looking ahead to the future. Together, we’ll continue to build homes, communities, and hope for generations to come.

Stay tuned for exciting updates and opportunities to get involved as we commemorate this incredible journey. Thank you for being part of our mission to transform lives, one home at a time.

The Foundation of Hope: Habitat Forsyth’s First Home

In the fall of 1985, a group of determined volunteers came together every weekend on Thurmond Street with a shared vision: to build homes and hope. Armed with self-taught skills and a deep sense of purpose, they worked tirelessly to fulfill God’s call to create affordable housing for those in need.

Earlier that year, Habitat Forsyth had officially become an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, thanks to the dedication of community leaders, the support of Crisis Control Ministry, and a new Board of Directors.

After months of planning and fundraising, the dream became a reality. On February 9, 1986, a crowd of 150 gathered to mark the completion of the first Habitat home in Winston-Salem. The dedication ceremony, led by Randall Lolley of the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, was filled with prayer, gospel singing, and gratitude.

For Rodney and Rita and their two children, the home represented more than shelter—it was a testament to faith and community. “It’s a gift from God that this came to pass,” Rodney told the Winston-Salem Journal.

This historic milestone laid the foundation for Habitat Forsyth’s enduring mission to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. In 2025, we honor the legacy of those first volunteers and celebrate the lives changed by their vision.