Take some time to read this in-depth interview with Aaron Draplin. It's always good to read passionate responses to design inquiries.

Do you feel a responsibility to contribute to something bigger than yourself?
... I want to help people with this shit instead of talking people into buying some shit they don’t need. Could we take design as a tool to make it easier for someone to get health care or use a bike path or enhance their life in a small way? I think about this stuff and how I could use what I know to help people.

Lots of little gems like that sprinkled throughout so be sure to read it all.