On the first anniversary of Rosalynn Carter’s passing, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter opens up about navigating life without his beloved partner. At 100 years old, President Carter has spent over a year and a half in hospice care, enduring the profound loss of his wife. Rosalynn left this world on November 19, 2023, at the age of 96, a day that drastically changed his life.

“He misses Mrs. Carter terribly, every single day,” shares Paige Alexander, CEO of The Carter Center, in a heartfelt conversation with PEOPLE. As President Carter continues to mourn, he is surrounded by family, friends, and an abundance of love. Despite this heavy absence, Carter remains connected to the world, although he is no longer at the helm of his esteemed foundation, The Carter Center, which continues its important work without him.

Established by the Carters in 1982, The Carter Center has played a crucial role in advancing human rights, easing human afflictions, and improving mental health care. In the wake of Rosalynn’s departure, those upholding their legacy feel an even stronger commitment to the causes she championed, especially in mental health and caregiving.

“In many ways, her passing has reignited our passion,” explains Alexander, referring to the sustained global initiatives of The Carter Center. “We have expanded upon the work she started. We have established a mental health and caregiving office in Washington, D.C., and we are extending our mental health program from Liberia to other African regions. Additionally, we actively engaged in the UN General Assembly on mental health matters last September.”

Throughout their impactful careers, the Carters were actively involved in The Carter Center’s activities. They were frequently seen walking hand in hand through its halls, attending meetings, and participating in special events. Alexander fondly recalls, “They would stroll through the halls here, holding hands, moving from one meeting to another, turning off lights when others forgot. They were true working compatriots.”

Although Rosalynn may no longer be physically present at The Carter Center, her lasting influence continues to inspire all who knew her. Alexander notes the warm recognition of Rosalynn’s contributions, particularly in mental health advocacy. “First ladies are often overshadowed, so it was heartwarming to see her receive the acknowledgment she deserved for all she achieved in mental health and caregiving,” she shares.

As The Carter Center moves forward, Alexander emphasizes the importance of advancing Rosalynn’s mission. “Those who had the privilege to know and work with Mrs. Carter feel that they have absorbed her legacy, and those who did not have the opportunity now recognize that they are inheriting a remarkably powerful tradition,” she emphasizes.

Looking ahead, The Carter Center plans to leverage modern tools and initiatives, such as the Rosalynn Carter Journalist Fellowship program, to amplify voices within the mental health field. Alexander hopes that these efforts will spark critical discussions that transform the perception of mental health across the country.

Commemorating Rosalynn Carter on the anniversary of her passing evokes feelings of gratitude and pride. Alexander fondly remembers her as “selfless, thoughtful, perceptive, a good listener, and service-oriented.” Rosalynn herself reflected on her life and said, “I’d like to think people recognized that I seized the opportunities I was given and did my utmost.”

Her legacy of service continues to guide The Carter Center’s ongoing work and serves as an inspiration for future generations.