About 15 students and faculty members from the University of North Georgia's (UNG) Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program assisted Habitat for Humanity of Hall County with projects in its Copper Glen subdivision April 17.

Students were able to help create a fence and signage at the front of the neighborhood, as well as working on a treehouse. They also had a chance to learn about how to fix toilets and faucets and play a game of "Habitat Jeopardy" to learn more about the nonprofit organization.

The PETE program prepares health and physical education candidates to teach pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Students earn a degree in kinesiology with teacher certification.

"I am so proud of these students contributing to the community, their willingness to do any task to help the home build, and representing UNG and the College of Education as true community partners," Warren Caputo, associate professor and PETE program coordinator, said.

Caputo and PETE lecturer Brook Shurley have been bringing their UNG students to Habitat projects for years.

Madelyn Stone, a junior from Temecula, California, is a second-generation UNG student who has enjoyed becoming close with her PETE cohort. She was glad to help with the Habitat build alongside some of the "Faithful Few" regular volunteers for Habitat.

"It made me feel like I was part of something bigger than myself and I'm a part of the community," Stone said. "It was really inspiring to see so many dedicated, like-minded people having a passion to help others. It made me want to get involved myself."

Connor Lively, a junior from Waynesboro, Georgia, grew up working construction with his father and felt at home helping Habitat.

"It's a good opportunity to give people lower-cost housing," Lively said. "I like the mission. It's a great bonding experience with my classmates. Working outside like this bonds people like nothing else."

Kori Esco, a junior from Lavonia, Georgia, was grateful to gain experience with tools and be immersed in Habitat's work for a day.

"I enjoyed learning what Habitat is all about," Esco said. "They're changing so many lives with it, and it's just a beautiful thing."

According to its website, Habitat for Humanity of Hall County "is a hand-up, not a hand-out program, helping hard-working, low-income families purchase their own home. This self-sufficiency builds self-reliance that spreads to work, family and community life."