Students from Youngstown State University’s Sokolov Honors College recently partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Mahoning Valley to build and decorate a custom playhouse for two local children, Owen and Jake. The project, part of Habitat’s Project Playhouse initiative, offered students a meaningful opportunity to apply teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while making a lasting difference for a local family.

“This project reflects the university’s commitment to mutually beneficial partnerships. YSU students gain valuable skills through building the playhouse, while the children will enjoy years of active play, representing for both the best that comes from experiential learning,” said Amy Cossentino, associate provost and dean, Sokolov Honors College.

More than 15 honors students and teaching assistants participated in the event, collaborating to measure, assemble, paint, and roof the playhouse. The build day provided hands-on experience in technical areas such as tool use and construction while also emphasizing interpersonal development.

“I used and strengthened both my technical and interpersonal skills during this event,” said Gabe Perrotta, honors graduate assistant. “We worked together, learned how to use power tools, and used critical thinking during project playhouse.”

Other students shared how working on this project allowed them to see the impact of their work almost immediately.

“I had never heard of this project before I took part in it, and I can honestly say it is one of the most meaningful I’ve ever experienced. Knowing that we were working together to make a difference in the lives of two young children in the community felt amazing and inspired me to put my all into what I was doing,” said Caitlyn Sapp, honors graduate assistant.

For many, the most memorable moment came when the completed playhouse was presented to its recipients.

“This was really emotional for me to be able to help make something for Owen and Jake. Seeing how happy and grateful they were just made the whole experience worth it,” said Kalyn Nuel, honors Chemistry major.

Presley Bowser, associate director of the Sokolov Honors College, said the build allowed for experiential learning while engaging in the community.

“Our students don’t just study leadership and service; they live it,” Bowser said. “This project allowed them to see the immediate impact of their teamwork, collaboration, and community engagement.”

The honors TAs created one of five playhouses built and painted in a single day. Habitat for Humanity worked with the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley to identify those who would receive the playhouses.