LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - As the country mourns the loss of Former President Jimmy Carter, Lubbock Habitat for Humanity is remembering the legacy he left on the non-profit across the world and here in the Hub City.

Executive Director Christy Reeves says the pioneer for human rights has been instrumental in the non-profit's mission.

"He just jumped in post-presidency and decided to support it, and just really ignited a flame and got it going," Reeves said. "I think a lot of people think he really made it what it is today."

For more than three decades, he and his wife, Rosalynn, worked with the non-profit to build thousands of homes and raise awareness about affordable housing.

President Carter even called their work projects a vacation for the couple every year, calling them on one occasion, "hard working, unpredictable, adventurous, challenging, but always gratifying. And as I've said for 30 years, we never have been on a Habitat project that we didn't get more out of it than we put into it."

Along with more than 100,000 volunteers, the Carters helped build nearly 4,500 homes in 14 countries. Reeves says she's inspired by President Carter's humility.

"He was so insightful to realize that shelter and the basic human need of shelter was such an essential part of the American fabric," she said. "To get behind Habitat for Humanity, to support it the way he did has just made a tremendous difference."

Reeves says his work was essential in bringing the "Blitz Build" back to the Hub City.

"He was a big supporter of putting up a lot of houses quickly, creating a lot of publicity, getting the whole community involved. So, we did bring our 'Blitz Build' back in 2020 here in Lubbock. It's been a great event. Everyone gets excited about it. I already have people contacting me about how they can get involved this September," Reeves said.

She's also amazed at how hands-on President Carter was with his service.

"He was out building houses in his 90s. Who is doing that? I really want to be him," Reeves said. "He inspires me to be better and to be doing this all of my lifetime. I think everyone, at any age, should keep fighting for what they believe in, making a difference, trying hands-on to support any organization they care about."

To help carry on President Carter's legacy at a local level, Reeves says Habitat needs volunteers - but it primarily needs money to build more homes. Anyone can donate to the Habitat ReStore or give any time online.

"With more money, we could build more houses today. We want to make 2025 the year of service, to carry on Jimmy Carter's legacy. So, give us your money. Give us your time. Help us carry that on right here in the Hub City," Reeves said.