Habitat for Humanity International Records, Series 1.5: Papers - Media Project Files, 1989-2005

Summary

Creator:
Habitat for Humanity International, Inc
Date:
1989-2005
Extent:
8.5 Linear Feet
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

Habitat for Humanity International Records, ms 3786, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.

Background

Scope and content:

The Media Project files consist of press releases and media plans for major Habitat for Humanity projects such as Jimmy Carter Work Projects, Blitz Builds, and anniversary celebrations. The files document the efforts and strategies the organization used to promote these events and projects, including news releases, pamphlets, public relations efforts, and endorsements by public figures.

Biographical / historical:

Habitat for Humanity International is a non-profit Christian housing ministry founded by Millard and Linda Fuller in 1976. The organization works to build decent, safe housing for needy families and individuals around the world. Its operational headquarters are located in Americus, GA, and its administrative headquarters are in Atlanta. Habitat operates on the community level through independent local affiliates and performs work internationally through national offices.

The concept for Habitat began at Koinonia farm, a small, interracial community outside of Americus, GA. This community was founded by farmer and biblical scholar Clarence Jordan in 1942. In 1965, the Fullers visited Koinonia and, together with Jordan, developed the idea of "partnership housing," a system in which those in need of housing would work side by side with volunteers to build simple, decent houses.

In 1976, Habitat for Humanity International was officially established. Former U. S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn Carter got involved in 1984 with the first Jimmy Carter Work Project. Since then, the Carters have been consistent supporters of Habitat, giving it a national and international spotlight.

In 2005, Fuller was dismissed from Habitat for Humanity amid unresolved disputes and established the Fuller Center for Housing. Jonathan Reckford took the position of executive director. As of 2013, Habitat for Humanity has built over 600,000 homes, eliminating poverty housing or homelessness for 3 million people worldwide.

Arrangement:

The materials are arranged chronologically.

This finding aid represents just one portion of the Habitat for Humanity International Records, which altogether consist of correspondence, event files, administrative files, affiliate files, media project files, newsletters, clippings, and print samples, as well as photographs, artifacts, and audiovisual materials.

Access and use restrictions

Preferred citation:

Habitat for Humanity International Records, ms 3786, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.