I just discovered Project H Design, a nonprofit team of designers and builders “engaging locally to improve the quality of life for the socially overlooked,” whose “long-term initiatives focus on using design to improve public education experiences, spaces, and curricula in the US.”

I’m fascinated by Emily Pilloton’s innovative approach to providing under-served communities with opportunities for learning new skills in hands-on work.

In August 2010, Pilloton, founder and executive director of Project H Design, is launching Studio H, which she says is the country’s first design, vocation, and community service program in a public high school. Studio H will take place in Bertie County, the poorest county in North Carolina, where 80% of school district families live in poverty, and few skilled job opportunities exist.

According to this VIDEO, Studio H will offer a new hands-on approach to high school education that teaches trade skills, design-based problem-solving, citizenship, and leadership by collectively building one big community project per year. As Pilloton explains, “It’s shop class and design studio as community catalyst.” So cool!

Here’s a VIDEO of Pilloton speaking at CEDIM, which offers some insight into her philosophy and approach.

Here’s a mention in the New York Times’ “Nifty 50: America’s up-and-coming talent.”

What an impressive organization.