Former U.S. President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Jimmy Carter, along with his wife, Rosalynn, and Habitat for Humanity International founder and president Millard Fuller and his wife, Linda, will join an estimated 3,000 volunteers from the United States and around the world in Benton Harbor and Detroit, Mich., as they build houses in partnership with families in need.

Benton Harbor and Detroit will construct an estimated 25-35 Habitat homes each. Opening and closing ceremonies will be held in Benton Harbor and Detroit, and both cities will serve as primary build sites for the Carters and Fullers during the project.

More than 80 Habitat for Humanity affiliates throughout Michigan are expected to participate in the Jimmy Carter Work Project 2005 by building houses in their local communities. In addition, the project will expand beyond U.S. borders, with the city of Windsor in Canada expected to build several homes during the week as a partner affiliate of the project.

"The answer to providing affordable housing in Michigan, and for that matter throughout the world, is not to abandon a community, but where possible to 'rebuild' a community," stated President Carter. "I am incredibly pleased that Michigan has agreed to host the Jimmy Carter Work Project in 2005, and I hope this project will generate optimism in people and the rejuvenation of neighborhoods that have incredible potential to contribute positively to their communities."

"The state of Michigan will benefit from Habitat for Humanity's efforts to build homes and provide much needed rehabilitation and healing to communities and families in need," said Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm. "We are enthusiastic about this opportunity to work in partnership with people from all over the world, and we are honored that Michigan has been selected to host Habitat's Jimmy Carter Work Project."

Habitat for Humanity International's Jimmy Carter Work Project is an annual event. For more information, visit www.habitat.org.

Publication date: 10/27/2003