This is the first year Habitat for Humanity International has presented the Lifetime Achievement award. Betty Salter is one of four individuals, selected out more than 1,700 U.S. affiliates and 550 international affiliates, to receive the inaugural achievement award.

The Habitat for Humanity International national Lifetime Achievement was presented to Mrs. Salter in a surprise presentation at her church, St. Luke United Methodist Church. Members of the Habitat Board of Directors and the Salter family joined Pastor Jason Adams in presenting the award. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter wrote a personal letter of congratulation to Mrs. Salter, which was read aloud to the church. Thanks to U.S. Rep. Jeff Miller, the award was read into Congressional Record in December 2009. Sheilah Bowman from U.S. Rep. Jeff Miller’s office presented Mrs. Salter with this very special honor.

Mrs. Salter comment, "But it's not just me," she said. "It's a team effort. We all work together, doing what we love to do." The presentation concluded with a standing ovation from the congregation of St. Luke United Methodist Church.

Pensacola Habitat would like to thank Pastor Jason Adams and all of St. Luke for opening their worship service to us.