On December 29th, 2024, flags around the world were lowered to half-mast in mourning for 39th President Jimmy Carter. Those who are familiar with his life accomplishments, both in office and post-presidency, know that Carter wasted no time in his dedication to service and strive for peace.
Carter began his presidency in 1977. It was during his inaugural speech that he laid out the overlying principles in which he planned to run the country. He spoke on the importance of upholding human rights, building strong relationships with foreign countries, environmental protection, and ambition to grow as a country. One of the key ideas from his speech that encapsulates his vision for leadership is expressed in the following quote:
“Our government must at the same time be both competent and compassionate.”
This sentiment was one he upheld for the duration of his four years. He made many strides in improving the country; arranging peace agreements between foreign leaders, being an active member in conversations revolving human rights advocacy, implementing policies that reduced the countries use of foreign oil and promoted different forms of renewable energy, and much more. He was proof that leading with compassion at the forefront was effective as well as essential in upholding the values which shaped America hundreds of years ago.
Carter lost the 1980 election to Ronald Reagan. This was far from the end of his work in humanitarian efforts, however. A couple years after Carter’s presidency came to an end, he met a man named Millard Fuller. Millard Fuller and his wife, Linda, are the founders of a nonprofit organization called Habitat for Humanity. This organization is one that through volunteer work and donations provides affordable housing to families in need. It was only with the Carter’s help that Habitat began to receive national, and eventually international, recognition. President Carter and his wife Rosalynn committed over thirty years to both promoting, and doing firsthand work, on these projects.
Jimmy Carter’s vision of basic human rights for all and commitment to service is one that is shared by many here at NDP. NDP has partnered with Habitat for Humanity since the 1990s, allowing students to have a unique experience that both helps many in need, and provides valuable insight and personal growth. Habitat builds are promoted to students throughout the year. Two of the most beloved trips include those to Mississippi and Virginia. Both delegations include a select number of NDP seniors who travel to a Habitat worksite for multiple days of hard work and fun. Projects like these may not have been possible without the great work of Jimmy Carter, a man of equal competence and compassion.
Citations:
“Carter Work Project.” Habitat for Humanity, Habitat for Humanity Internacional, www.habitat.org/carter-work-project. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025.
“Jimmy Carter.” Britannica School, Encyclopædia Britannica, 30 Dec. 2024. school.eb.com/levels/high/article/Jimmy-Carter/20545. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025.
Zurcher, Anthony, and Tom Geoghegan. “Jimmy Carter, former US president, dies aged 100.” BBC, 29 Dec. 2024, www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpww85w5p30o. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025.