Press
A Statement on the Passing of the 39th President of the United States Jimmy Carter
Points of Light joins millions around the world in celebrating the life of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States of America, Navy veteran, life-long public servant and nonprofit founder of The Carter Center. He was a model for a civic life well lived.
Jimmy Carter began his career in the Navy as a submariner, rising to the rank of lieutenant. After leaving the Navy, he became a community leader through volunteering, serving on multiple boards for his county and school system. These experiences moved him to a career in public service, serving in the Georgia Senate and as Georgia’s governor, before running for and being elected as President of the United States. As president, Carter administered significant international treaties and championed human rights throughout the world.
After his time in office, President Carter continued to advance causes he cared about. Founding The Carter Center in 1982, President Carter continued to address national and international policy with the goal of resolving conflict, protecting human rights and promoting democracy. His efforts resulted in his being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. In addition, he and his wife Rosalynn volunteered with Habitat for Humanity annually for more than 35 years.
President Carter long supported Points of Light’s mission to inspire, equip and mobilize people to take action to change the world, starting in their own communities. In 2011, he joined us on stage at our “All Together Now: A Celebration of Service” Tribute event honoring Points of Light’s founder, President George H.W. Bush. In 2017, he joined President George H.W. Bush on stage in College Station, Texas, with Presidents George W. Bush, William Clinton and Barack Obama, to present five Daily Point of Light Awards to volunteers in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. Additionally, from 2019 – 2023, he served as an honorary co-chair for The George H.W. Bush Points of Light Awards along with Presidents Bush (43), Clinton and Obama. We are grateful for his generous support throughout the years.
President Carter dedicated his life to serving others and was truly a point of light. His legacy will continue to inspire others to become deeply involved in their communities and country to create a more just, equitable world.