This fall a handful of our volunteers, Tigers, donors, and staff traveled up to South Bend to participate in the 2018 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project with Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County. What an experience it was! Our involvement began on Monument Circle where we built the wall panels for one of the 22 homes constructed (watch the Monumental Build action here).

For a glimpse into the experience, read reflections from participants below and view more of our photos!

“A quote from Jimmy Carter that speaks to one of the reasons why our experience with Habitat volunteering is so special: ‘Habitat gives us an opportunity which is very difficult to find: to reach out and work side by side with those who never have had a decent home—but work with them on a completely equal basis. It’s not a big-shot, little-shot relationship. It’s a sense of equality.’
I really loved working with volunteers from different parts of the country. We were all so different but were totally connected by a common cause. The energy of this build was very inspiring. Many are not retired and were taking vacation time while traveling at great expense to help those that are not as fortunate in life. It really gives one a lot of faith in humanity to see the love and dedication of these people.” – Scott McDonald

“Best Stories – Building the entire roof structure on the ground and raising to the top of the house walls using a crane and practicing a wedding recessional for two of the volunteers who were getting married in three weeks.” – Paul Reising (recessional pictured at right)

“Participating in the Habitat Carter Work Project at Mishawaka this year was one of the highlights of my life. The devotions, fellowship, meals, and hard work contributed by all the participants resulted in a beautiful productive week. Hanging out with President and Mrs. Carter was inspiring. The Carters have been and continue to be such important leaders for our country.
The Habitat program works. You see how well the program works no matter if you are volunteering in Indianapolis or in another community across the state, nation, or world. Working with Habitat for Humanity allows people in need of affordable housing to focus on a plan where their hard work and commitment is translated into high quality housing for their family. The security of affordable housing often allows the family to focus on other important aspects of life including obtaining a better education for their children. The volunteers who participate are able to connect with those in need and feel satisfaction and fulfillment that comes from sharing their time, talent, and treasure in a way that multiplies their love and provides the help that is needed by another family. It builds community in a manner that gives all involved a big rush of joy. No matter if you participate on a panel build, a local build or a massive blitz build you realize that you end up taking away much more than you were able to share.” – Tim Burkholder

“What an honor and joy to participate in the 2018 Carter Build as part of the Greater Indy Team. The Carters are absolutely amazing and for 35 years have helped spread the word about Habitat…along with spreading The Word of Love to All! Twenty two wonderful families will long remember the many people who came to Mishawaka…and I am so humbled to have been in their presence! Thank you Greater Indy!” – Diane Newton