On his 100th birthday, Milwaukeeans remember the homes Jimmy Carter built on 23rd and Walnut

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Presidents are often known best for what they've done during their time in office. For some people, Jimmy Carter's legacy came in the years after.

He is the oldest living former president in American history after celebrating his 100th birthday on Oct. 1st, and while he's often known as a peanut farmer from Georgia who became president, Carter's long life also has ties to Milwaukee. 

“Well, it's hard to put into words," said Brian Sonderman, the CEO of Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity. “He was different than a lot of celebrities.”

When the organization first began, Milwaukee's Habitat for Humanity only had two full-time staff members -- until Jimmy Carter arrived in 1989 to build six houses.

“Their involvement spurred on thousands of volunteers to work on a project for a week," said Sonderman. “It was an amazing thing to see all these folks descend on 23rd and Walnut to finish these homes because the president put out a call for action.”

Carter spent most of his time post-presidency building homes for the nonprofit organization, including Seana McCotterell's home on N. 23rd Street. 

“For all five days, I was here. All the neighbors and stuff was here, so we helped built the homes along with all the volunteers, Jimmy Carter," said McCotterell. 

McCotterell says she remembers Carter as kind and dedicated to improving the world around him.

“Not a former president that would come in and help build homes for everyday people," said McCotterell. “We often think about him and talk about him a lot, and happy that he made it to be 100 years old.”

Habitat for Humanity and McCotterell say it may have taken less than a week, but Carter's build will be remembered for the rest of their lives.

“His legacy will continue on for generations to come," said Sonderman.