Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia builds homes in West Philly inspired by Jimmy Carter’s humanitarian work

With every nail and piece of plywood, Habitat for Humanity volunteers create hope and an affordable foundation for families.

“For me, just being able to give back is very fulfilling,” said Geno Concepcion, who has participated in about 10 volunteer construction projects.

Concepcion donated his time Tuesday afternoon by helping Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia build four homes on North 40th Street in West Philly. He said part of his motivation to give back came from former President Jimmy Carter. For more than 35 years after leaving the White House, Carter rallied thousands of volunteers to help build affordable housing.

“As I watched him continue to work through the later stages of his life, I wanted to be able to do the same,” Concepcion said.

This week, Habitat volunteers recorded a video wishing Carter Happy 100th birthday as it marked the milestone.

“It’s amazing to talk about a lifetime and legacy of service, just absolutely remarkable,” said Corinne O’Connell, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia.

In 1988, former President and First Lady Rosalynn Carter rolled up her sleeves and spent days in North Philly helping build a Wilt Street apartment complex with Habitat. Their commitment to the community has improved lives and helped Habitat homeowners achieve the American Dream.

“The homes on Wilt Street where the Carter Work Project took place are still owned by Habitat homeowners, and our office is directly across the street,” O’Connell said.

The project on North 40th Street in West Philly has been in the works for several years and is now called Rosalynn’s Way in Honor the late Mrs. Carterwho also campaigned for affordable housing for decades. She died in November 2023 at the age of 96.

“When these four homes are sold to homeowners, it will add to 280 homes that Habitat Philadelphia has built, which is remarkable,” O’Connell said.

Construction work is scheduled to be completed next summer.