If you are unfamiliar with PieLab I suggest reading up on it– there could be something really important about social change and the role/potential role that design plays in this if the project proves a success–and so far it has. Project M is a great start for someone interested in exploring the roles designers and design in general have/can have on social issues.

via PieLab:

PieLab, an initiative of Project M, is focused on community development and engagement in Hale County, AL.
PieLab is a welcoming community space on Greensboro’s Main Street that provides delicious pie and coffee, as well as retail and hospitality job training for local youth through the YouthBuild Program. More than simply a pie shop, PieLab operates as a community design center focusing on community development projects and small business incubation in Greensboro and the surrounding five counties.

PieLab Promo from Project M on Vimeo.