Atlanta to Host the 2026 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, Reviving a Historic Tradition

Atlanta Habitat to Host 2026 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project

Atlanta Habitat for Humanity has been selected to host the upcoming 2026 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, as officially announced by Habitat for Humanity International. This notable event is a significant milestone as it marks the first return to Atlanta since the project was held there in 1988.

During the closing ceremony of this year's work project in Austin, Texas, the ceremonial passing of the hammer from Austin Habitat to Atlanta Habitat signified the continuity of this impactful tradition. Rosalyn Merrick, the president and CEO of Atlanta Habitat, expressed her excitement, stating, "It is an incredible honor to welcome this project back, allowing us to showcase our commitment to addressing the racial wealth gap and supporting housing stability for families in need."

In 1988, the original event saw the Carters helping to build 21 homes in Atlanta's Edgewood neighborhood, a feat that showcased the spirit of community and service that the work project embodies. In 2026, the Atlanta team plans to construct 24 homes in the historic Sylvan Hills neighborhood, providing vital housing opportunities in an area with a rich cultural background.

This year's project in Austin was already a testament to the collaborative endeavor, with over 1,000 volunteers constructing 25 homes in the Whisper Valley community. As Atlanta prepares for its turn, the program promises to bring together volunteers from various backgrounds, united by a common goal: to create sustainable, affordable housing.

Jonathan Reckford, the CEO of Habitat for Humanity International, emphasized the broader message of the Carter Work Project: "It's about more than just building homes. It's about fostering hope and building community. The return of this event to Atlanta serves as an inspirational catalyst for enacting change and addressing housing affordability."

Additionally, the 2026 Carter Work Project coincides finely with Habitat for Humanity International's 50th anniversary, making it a dual celebration of both service and the mission of providing housing stability globally. The initiative encourages volunteers, donors, and advocates to step forward and contribute to this cause, highlighting the urgent need for affordable homeownership in Georgia and beyond.

The Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project began in 1984 and has since mobilized over 109,600 volunteers across 14 countries, directly impacting the lives of more than 4,472 families. The legacy of this project reflects a commitment not only to building homes but to creating a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Preparations for the project are already underway, with Atlanta Habitat beginning to rally community support, volunteer engagement, and fundraising efforts to ensure a successful build. The organization turns to the local community to encourage involvement through various initiatives and partnerships.

The message remains clear: affordable housing is not just a goal; it is a fundamental right. The upcoming project aims to shed light on homeownership challenges in Georgia, aiming to inspire action towards change and advocacy for those in need.

For those interested in participating in the event or learning more about volunteer opportunities, Atlanta Habitat will provide updates via their website as the date approaches. Together, with dedication and community spirit, Atlanta will embrace the spirit of service once again, carrying forth the legacy of President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter's exemplary dedication to helping others have a place to call home.

For additional information and to check out historical images from past projects, visit habitat.ngo/CWPphotos.