June 11, 2003
Valdosta - Wednesday was one of the most exciting days in Edna Minnis' life. "It's just a wonderful feeling, I don't even have the words," said Minnis.
Not only is her new home almost complete, she's building it with former President Jimmy Carter. "I've always wanted to meet him and now it's finally happened," said Minnis. "It's a memory I'll never forget."
Twenty-four new homeowners had that same excitement today, as President Carter posed at each house for a picture and gave all homeowners a Bible. "When these homes are finished and those keys are handed over, there won't be a dry eye out here," said Carter. "Many people fail to realize the volunteers are blessed from this experience just as much as the homeowners."
He may be a Nobel Peace Prize winner, but President Carter isn't afraid to roll up his sleeves and dive into a home build. "Rosalyn and I have worked on every aspect of building a house, and have learned to be pretty good carpenters," said Carter.
He's been working with Habitat for Humanity for 2 decades. This is the 20th year of the Jimmy Carter Work Project. "People ask me all the time why we do this and it's because we love getting together with friends and having such an exciting, adventurous experience," said Carter.
New homeowners like Edna say today's visit with President Carter is icing on the cake. "I didn't think it could be more special but this has made it even better," said Minnis.
The new homes should be finished by Friday morning and will be dedicated that afternoon.
posted at 4:45 by ashley.harper@walb.com
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