A reflection from Habitat NYC and Westchester CEO Sabrina Lippman:

I was tremendously honored and deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent Habitat for Humanity New York City and Westchester County at President Jimmy Carter’s funeral, alongside Don K., a Habitat homeowner from Mascot Flats—our first-ever development and inaugural Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project. The Carters worked on Don’s home back in 1984, and he hosted them in that very apartment 30 years later at a retrospective reception. And now, in a poignant full-circle moment, Don bid President Carter a final farewell at the Capitol.

Collage of photos: Sabrina Lippman with Don Kao and Robert Reckford. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter on the roof of Mascot Flats in 1985. Photos from the Memorial Service at the Capitol and the funeral service.

President Carter’s profound belief in the power of service and his unwavering commitment to building a better world have left an indelible mark on this organization. His hands-on leadership and dedication remind us of the transformative impact of our work and the responsibility we carry to continue his legacy.

It is humbling to honor his life among so many who have been inspired by his vision and values. As we reflect on his extraordinary contributions, let us recommit to building homes, communities, and hope with the same passion and perseverance that defined his life.

Thank you to our incredible community for the role each of you plays in carrying this mission forward. Thank you for your outpouring of support and celebration of a life well-built at our memorial activations—the tribute site at Mascot Flats on the Lower East Side, and the door-signings at our ReStore locations in Queens and Yonkers. Together, we are building a brighter future, one home and family at a time.