Chip Carter Celebrates Bipartisanship at Habitat for Humanity Events Honoring His Parents

Chip Carter Celebrates Bipartisanship at Habitat for Humanity Events Honoring His Parents

EXCLUSIVE – Chip Carter has launched the 39th annual Habitat for Humanity Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in October, commemorating his late father’s commitment to bipartisan community service in home construction.

The Carter Work Project is a weeklong initiative that the Carters started in 1984. Over these years, they have partnered with more than 100,000 volunteers to build, renovate, and repair nearly 4,400 homes, according to statistics from Habitat for Humanity.

Chip emphasized that home construction resonated deeply with his parents because it transcended political divisions.

Addresses Chip expressed admiration for his parents’ dedication, stating, “Mom and Dad spent countless hours here at Habitat, engaging in these initiatives and giving of themselves. One reason they truly cherished this work is its apolitical nature. You cannot tell whether the person hammering beside you is a Democrat or a Republican. Politics never entered the conversation, and they cherished that break from it every year. Their love for this project was evident.”

Habitat for Humanity CEO Jonathan Reckford echoed Chip’s sentiments. He remarked, “Every Habitat build is valuable, but the Carter Project is our marquee event annually. Not only do we construct homes in Austin, which is wonderful, but it also allows us to focus national attention on the pressing need for affordable housing across the United States and the globe. It is truly a joyful week for everyone involved.”

Chip highlighted that his father’s commitment to bipartisanship extended beyond homebuilding projects.

“He was never pretentious,” Chip continued, reflecting on his father’s demeanor. “He maintained his beliefs and facts while focusing on what he believed to be right, without concern for re-election. The decision to serve others through this project represents a fundamental way to give back. When I arrive on site Monday, I anticipate the physical challenges. Yet, by Friday, I know I will feel accomplished. I witness the joy of homeowners receiving keys to houses they never dreamed they could own. I find immense satisfaction in giving back during this week.”

Continuing his reflection, he noted, “Every Friday, I give myself a pat on the back. My sense of fulfillment from these efforts rivals my pride throughout the rest of the year. This week is among my favorites, and I plan to return as long as I can. This time, I brought my daughter and her husband to ensure that, as I grow older—if my father were here, he would likely suggest 92 as a good age—my daughter and her husband can maintain the Carter presence and fulfill our family legacy of service.”

Jimmy Carter passed away at age 100 in 2023, shortly followed by Rosalynn, who died at age 96. During the memorial service at the Washington National Cathedral on January 9, 2025, all five living former presidents—current President Biden, former Presidents Clinton, Bush, Obama, and Trump—gathered to honor the Carters.

During the service, former presidents Trump and Obama were seated next to each other. Their friendly and animated conversation drew significant attention and sparked a flurry of social media reactions, including memes and parody videos. Observers speculated on the content of their dialogue, even prompting humorous remarks, such as one from Clay Travis, founder of OutKick, who quipped about the possibility of Obama voting for Trump.

When discussing the service, Trump remarked that he was surprised by how friendly the interaction appeared.

Reflecting on the funeral, Chip shared, “While I mourn my father’s passing, I must say the funeral was wonderfully executed. The event was notably non-political, with many Republicans honoring my parents appropriately. Their legacy as individuals who dedicated their lives to helping others shone brightly. It rejuvenated my sense of American pride. Although spending 11 days on the funeral proceedings was challenging, the support and affection expressed by America and the world inspired our family greatly.”

Habitat for Humanity also partnered with popular hosts Jonathan and Drew Scott of the show “Property Brothers.” They participated as Humanitarians during the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project, joining over 1,000 volunteers to provide safe, sustainable housing options.

Despite the success of this event, Habitat acknowledged the broader housing crisis, citing a shortage of 3.8 million housing units across America. Millions of citizens struggle to afford their homes, highlighting the ongoing challenges in housing access.

Emphasizing the significance of the Carter Work Project, Habitat for Humanity stated, “The 39th annual Carter Work Project represents more than just a homebuilding endeavor. It stands as a living legacy of compassion and unity inspired by the Carters’ vision for a more caring America.”

By continuing the Carters’ work, volunteers and organizations strive to honor their significant legacy, ensuring that community service remains a cornerstone of American values.