Description

 Our Better Angels

“Seven Simple Virtues that will Change your Life and the World”

In this groundbreaking book by Habitat for Humanity, readers are taken on a journey of real-life virtues in action. CEO Jonathan Reckford shares captivating stories of ordinary individuals who have experienced life-changing transformations by coming together to support one another. These inspiring tales serve as a powerful reminder of the potential within each of us to make a difference.

Reckford’s profound observations have led him to recognize the significance of seven timeless virtues: kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy, and service. Through the stories of those who have triumphed over adversity, he demonstrates how embracing these virtues can empower us to become the best versions of ourselves.

The impact of these virtues extends far beyond our personal lives, influencing our careers, families, communities, and even our perception of the world.

With each chapter dedicated to one of these virtues, Reckford introduces us to remarkable individuals whose lives have been touched by Habitat for Humanity. For instance, we meet Jed, a grateful recipient of a Habitat home, who selflessly donates it back to the organization to help others in need. We also encounter Vic, a veteran who finds inspiration in his experience with Habitat and decides to return to Vietnam to contribute to housing projects there. Each story is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and serves as a guiding light for readers to discover their inner heroes.

Prepare to be captivated by the remarkable stories shared in this unprecedented book by Habitat for Humanity. CEO Jonathan Reckford takes readers on an emotional journey, shedding light on the extraordinary impact that ordinary people can have when they unite for a common cause. These stories of resilience and compassion are sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire readers to embrace the virtues that lie within us all.

Reckford’s deep understanding of the human spirit has led him to identify seven fundamental virtues that can shape our lives for the better. Through acts of kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy, and service, individuals can unlock their true potential and create a ripple effect that extends far beyond themselves. These virtues have the power to transform not only our personal lives but also our interactions within our communities and our perception of the world.

Within the pages of this book, Reckford introduces us to individuals whose lives have been forever changed by their involvement with Habitat for Humanity. From Jed, who selflessly donates his Habitat home to help others, to Vic, a veteran who finds purpose in building homes in Vietnam, each story serves as a testament to the incredible impact that can be achieved.

About The Author

 Under his guidance, Habitat has transitioned from serving 125,000 individuals annually to assisting over 7 million people in the previous year alone. Through the provision of shelter, Habitat empowers individuals to build strength, stability, and independence.

Jonathan’s passion for social justice and equality stems from his parent’s involvement in the civil rights movement and his grandmother, U.S. Congresswoman Millicent Fenwick, who was renowned for her unwavering commitment to justice. Inspired by their legacy, Jonathan is dedicated to leading Habitat’s endeavors in creating a world where everyone has access to a decent place to live.

Jonathan’s path to Habitat was not a direct one, as he gained valuable experience from various organizations along the way. He worked at Goldman, Sachs & Co., participated in the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea, and held positions at Marriott, The Walt Disney Co., Musicland, Best Buy, and Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, Minnesota. Each role equipped him with the necessary skills and passion to lead Habitat, fostering a deep connection to the organization’s mission and a bold vision for its future.

In addition to his role at Habitat, Jonathan is an accomplished author, having written “Our Better Angels: Seven Simple Virtues That Will Change Your Life and the World.” This book offers practical inspiration to bridge the divides of our society. He is also a highly sought-after speaker and contributor to discussions on home affordability, both in the United States and globally.

Jonathan’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond Habitat, as he serves on the boards of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and chairs Leadership 18. He is also a member of the Freddie Mac Housing Advisory Council, the Council on Foreign Relations, and the Urban Steering Committee for the World Economic Forum. With an MBA from Stanford and a BA in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Jonathan’s academic achievements further enhance his ability to lead and inspire change.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Jonathan finds joy in his personal life. He and his wife, Ashley, are proud parents to three children and have chosen to make Atlanta their home. Through his multifaceted experiences and unwavering dedication, Jonathan Reckford continues to make a profound impact.

Jimmy Carter

In 2002, Jimmy Carter, the thirty-ninth president of the United States, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in promoting peace and human rights around the world. Carter is a prolific author, having written several bestsellers, including White House Diary, An Hour Before Daylight, and Palestine Peace Not Apartheid. He was born and raised on a peanut farm in Plains, Georgia, and went on to graduate from the Naval Academy in 1946. After serving in the Navy for seven years, he returned to Georgia and entered state politics, eventually becoming governor in 1971. In 1976, he was elected President of the United States.

As President, Carter was committed to making government more “competent and compassionate,” and he worked tirelessly to promote human rights and peace around the world. Some of his notable achievements include the Israel-Egypt peace treaty, the Panama Canal treaties, and establishing full diplomatic relations with China. After leaving office, he and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing human rights and democracy, resolving conflicts, and alleviating suffering from disease and hunger worldwide.

Today, the Carters continue to live in Plains, Georgia, but they remain active in philanthropic efforts around the world. They travel extensively in support of the Carter Center’s mission, and Jimmy Carter remains a respected voice on issues of peace, human rights, and social justice. His legacy as a champion of these causes continues to inspire people around the world, and his contributions to the betterment of humanity will be remembered for generations to come.