Millard Fuller

Millard Fuller was the author of eleven books and awarded more than a dozen honorary doctorate degrees. He was a millionaire before age thirty and gave away his entire fortune before he was forty. He was a lawyer, a friend to presidents and world leaders, and an advocate for the poor. He was a husband, father, and grandfather. He was a tall, skinny kid with big ears from Lanett, Alabama. He was founder of Habitat for Humanity and the Fuller Center for Housing, both movements organized to eliminate substandard housing worldwide. Because of his unfailing vision and tenacity, Millard was responsible for sheltering more than a million people who had been living in poverty. When Millard left business at age thirty and turned his life in a new direction, he began writing an autobiography. He kept a journal in his desk and wrote in detail about his business and law ventures. In 1968, Millard finished the story of his journey from pauper to millionaire to home builder. In 1970, a publisher offered to consider the book "at a later time," and the manuscript was packed away. His wife, Linda, occasionally would ask him about getting it published, but Millard would reply, "Not now. I'm too busy." This is that story.

In these pages you will find inspiring, true stories of people who didn't have hope?until they had a home. Stories of children who gained identity and confidence for their future. Of families made stronger and healthier and prison inmates who are now giving back to their communities. Of entire communities bonding together around an ethic of hard work and mutual respect. Of denominational, political, and racial barriers falling with every swing of the hammer. Of a growing host of young people engaged in the quest to end poverty housing. And even some wonderful love stories. The end result is nothing less than the transformation of lives, communities, and families?one person, one home at a time. Which, of course, has always been the dream?to build more than houses." Habitat for Humanity is building much more than houses. By building hope it is building relationships, strengthening communities, and nurturing families." ? Actor Paul Newman, Habitat supporter"Rosalynn and I believe in Habitat's integrity, effectiveness, and tremendous vision. With Habitat, we build more than houses. We build families, communities, and hope." ? Former U. S. President Jimmy Carter"I could have gone through my whole life bouncing back and forth on welfare. Habitat makes a difference, and allows people to be what God intended them to be instead of what their circumstances dictate." ? Missouri homeowner Terrie Robinson