Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn were in New Orleans Wednesday doing their part to help rebuild the Gulf Coast.

Carter was among dozens of volunteers helping Habitat for Humanity rebuild a home in the Upper Ninth Ward.

Carter and his wife were in the area last May when the 100^th home was built – now they are back to celebrate another milestone: the 25 ^th anniversary of the Carter Work Project.

For 25 years, Carter has put on his apron and got to work building homes across the world, but since Hurricane Katrina, his focus has been on the Gulf Coast.

“New Orleans has always had a special spirit about it is creative that's what’s made it so attractive and its going to be equally attractive when this tremendous project is over with,” said Carter.

Carter is helping people like St. Bernard resident Crystal Duplesis, who moved into a home of her own last year.

"I'm grateful to have people out helping and it feels good for me to help," said Crystal.

Carter’s message of hope has not come without controversy. Since the storm, he has criticized all levels of the government for its poor response after the storm.

"Well it ought not to take this long…disgraceful what government has failed to do," said Carter, who later apologized for his comments against the administration.

Meanwhile, Habitat for Humanity hopes the former president’s visit can draw attention to the Gulf Coast and the work that still needs to be done.