The Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Rural Rally is a national week of action that highlights the urgent need for affordable homeownership in rural America. Each year, Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the country unite to invest in rural communities – bringing volunteers, sponsors, and neighbors together to restore homes, strengthen pride, and build opportunity.

Here in Marysville, Habitat for Humanity Yuba-Sutter led the charge on Pine Street, focusing on revitalizing the block and beginning the full rehabilitation of 426 Pine Street – a once-dilapidated property that will soon become a safe, affordable Habitat home. That home served as the centerpiece of the Rural Rally, with volunteers working tirelessly to prepare it for a future homeowner just before the holiday season.

In addition to the home rehabilitation, the Rally included a large-scale “Brush with Kindness” effort along the entire block – providing exterior painting, tree trimming, yard clean-up, and debris removal at no cost to residents. The goal was simple: breathe new life into Pine Street, raise property values, and spark a renewed sense of neighborhood pride.

Over the five-day Rally, nearly 100 volunteers joined forces. Their efforts culminated in a Closing Ceremony attended by local leadership, celebrating the transformation of Pine Street and the spirit of collaboration that made it possible.

Rural communities like Marysville are home to farmers, veterans, essential workers, and small business owners—people who hold our region together. By participating in the Rural Rally, our volunteers became part of a national movement to bring lasting, visible change to rural America.