I will never forget the first time I watched Extreme Makeover Home Edition. In the midst of creating a beautiful home in a very short time frame, there was a crew of people dedicated helping the family in need. Ty Pennington, his team, & the community designed spaces that met the needs of physical or emotional limitations of the family members. These days, the show is “old news”, however several design professionals committed to improving the lives of others are beginning to share their passion for meaningful design.
Check out Project H. Emily Pilloton, Founder and Executive Director or Project H works with high school students to revolutionize their communities that are in dire need of educational & resource help. For example, Project H just finished building an open-air food market where community members can sell goods. The hope is that families can increase profit levels in their households with the help of this structure. The students were part of the planning, construction, and were there to present the project to their own community. Can you imagine how rewarding it is for those students to see their parents & friends’ families benefit from this resource?
Another favorite idea of mine is Special Spaces. Jennifer Swain, Executive Director of this non-profit organization, organizes one-day makeovers for children who are sick. The organization has received contributions from celebrities like Carrie Underwood, Peyton Manning, and Dani Johnson of Secret Millionaire. Their financial support sponsors a child to receive a makeover on their bedroom, where they have to spend so much of their time. Visit their website to find out how you can help! Click here to visit the Special Spaces website.
There are so many avenues a designer could take, but what a gift when they use their talent for so much GOOD!
-jaime from The Inspire Studio
