Fired Habitat for Humanity founder says Carter to intercede

<p>The founder and former president of Habitat for Humanity said Monday that former President Jimmy Carter will attempt to resolve "misunderstandings" that led to his firing by the Habitat board.</p><p>Millard Fuller said he and his wife, Linda, who also was fired last week, met Saturday with Carter, a longtime Habitat supporter and friend of the Fullers.</p><p>Fuller has said that he wants to return to the organization as president. He was fired Jan. 31 by after a dispute over allegations that he had acted inappropriately with a female staff member.</p><p>Fuller has denied the charge, and it was never substantiated, but the board's executive committee cited months of conflict with Fuller and what it called "critical" comments made by Fuller during the dispute.</p><p>More than 100 people gathered Saturday in Americus, where the organization's headquarters are located, with petitions calling for the Fullers to be rehired. Organizers are also seeking signatures online.</p><p>On Monday, Fuller said he and his wife had asked Carter "to resolve misunderstandings that have resulted in the present crisis."</p><p>"While he makes this attempt, we will refrain from comments that might be construed as negative and will encourage our friends and supporters to follow our example," he said.</p><p>Carter could not be reached immediately to comment Monday night.</p><p>Joedy Isert, a spokesman for Habitat, said officials were aware of the meeting between the Fullers and Carter but would have no comment.</p>