As part of its ongoing support for Habitat for Humanity, Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, sponsored and provided volunteers for the annual Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project 2025. This year’s event was held October 26–31 in Austin, Texas.
Over 40 years and across 14 countries, the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project has brought together volunteers and VIPs to build, renovate or repair nearly 4,500 homes while shining a global spotlight on the importance of affordable housing. Volunteers on this year’s project worked on new homes in Whisper Valley, Austin Habitat for Humanity’s first geothermal community, featuring 48 affordable, energy-efficient single-family houses.
Through a combination of monetary and product donations, Simpson Strong-Tie was a Roof Raiser sponsor for this year’s event. In addition, six Simpson Strong-Tie employees from the company’s McKinney, Texas, branch volunteered onsite during the week.
“Finding affordable housing is a critical issue for a significant percentage of Americans, and the work Habitat for Humanity does to bring homeownership within reach of more people is essential,” said Jennifer Lutz, executive vice president, human resources for Simpson Strong-Tie. “Working with the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project is part of our ongoing commitment to support both our industry and our communities. We’re particularly proud of our employees for their dedication, as well, in donating their time and expertise to this important cause.”
Throughout the week, Simpson Strong-Tie volunteers worked on a range of projects on one of the Whisper Valley homes, including installing cabinets, hanging doors, and caulking, patching and painting the exterior.
“Working with Habitat for Humanity was an experience that will stay with me forever. Coming together with volunteers from all over — each bringing their own story, energy and heart — was truly inspiring,” said Corynn De La Garza, dealer sales representative for Simpson Strong-Tie. “I’m so grateful to work for a company that gives back and stands firmly behind its principles of compassion, community and service. I can’t wait to be part of it again next year!”
Senior Territory Sales Manager Matt Lea voiced similar sentiments: “It was an incredible experience that left a lasting impression on me. Throughout the week, I had the chance to learn new skills and step outside my comfort zone — all in the service of a greater cause,” he said. “What stood out most was how a group of strangers, from different backgrounds and geographies, came together with a shared purpose: to help a family move into an affordable home simply because it’s the right thing to do. That unity and selflessness were inspiring.”
To learn more about the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, visit www.habitat.org/carter-work-project.
To learn more about Simpson Strong-Tie’s giving and partnership efforts, visit news.strongtie.com/releases/giving-and-partnerships.