About
BuildBright Foundation

At BuildBright Foundation, we believe that a safe, functional home and access to trusted knowledge shouldn’t be a privilege — they should be a right. That’s why we work to uplift individuals and families by combining the power of compassionate construction with empowering education.

About Us

A Mission Rooted in Care. Built on Impact.

To transform lives by providing free or low-cost renovations to low-income families and disabled veterans, while offering educational outreach that helps homeowners and small business owners make informed decisions about their spaces.

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Melbourne, Florida, on a mission to renovate homes, restore dignity, and equip communities with the tools they need to thrive — physically, emotionally, and financially.

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About Us

Build Brighter Futures

From critical home renovations to hands-on education, we provide the tools, support, and services that help people live safely, confidently, and with dignity.
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Renovation & Remodeling
We provide safe, accessible, and dignified home upgrades for families and veterans in need.

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Educational Outreach
Free workshops and tips to help people plan, maintain, and manage their renovation projects.

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Consultations for Property Owners
Expert guidance for homeowners and business owners navigating construction decisions.
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Meet the Team

The People Behind the Purpose

From critical home renovations to hands-on education, we provide the tools, support, and services that help people live safely, confidently, and with dignity.
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Jonathan Nalewak

Founder & Executive Director - BuildBright Foundation

Jonathan Nalewak is a contractor, community builder, and lifelong problem-solver with more than a decade of hands-on experience in roofing, construction, and residential renovation. As the Founder and Executive Director of the BuildBright Foundation, Jonathan leads the organization with a rare blend of technical expertise, calm leadership, and a deep commitment to serving others.
Before launching BuildBright and Precision Trades & Services, Jonathan served over 14 years in law enforcement, gaining extensive experience in crisis response, leadership, and community service. His ability to stay level-headed under pressure, communicate clearly, and guide people through complex situations has become a foundational strength in his work with homeowners, families, and volunteers.
Jonathan is also the owner and operator of Precision Trades & Services, a Florida- and Pennsylvania-based contracting company known for quality workmanship, transparency, and integrity.
Over the course of his career, he has overseen hundreds of residential and commercial projects, coordinated diverse crews, and helped homeowners navigate everything from routine repairs to complex insurance claims and full-scale renovations. His belief that every family deserves a safe, healthy, and dignified home laid the groundwork for what would become BuildBright.
Raised in a large, close-knit household, Jonathan learned early the values that guide his work today — love, honesty, integrity, patience, and service. Those values shape the culture of BuildBright and drive his mission to educate, renovate, and empower communities. Whether leading volunteer teams, advising homeowners, or organizing charitable renovation projects, Jonathan is known for remaining steady under pressure, leading with empathy, and always putting people first.
Jonathan founded the BuildBright Foundation to bring meaningful, lasting impact to families in need. Through free renovations for low-income families and disabled veterans, homeowner education seminars, youth skill-building programs, and hands-on volunteer opportunities, he is dedicated to strengthening communities and building brighter futures across Florida and the East Coast.

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Jacob Plank

Director of Construction & Northeast Regional Coordinator - BuildBright Foundation

Jacob Plank is a skilled construction professional, strategic planner, and service-oriented leader who plays a vital role in guiding BuildBright’s renovation initiatives across multiple states. As the organization’s Director of Construction, Jacob oversees all construction standards, project operations, and renovation planning for the entire foundation. In addition, he serves as the sole Coordinator for the Northeast Region, managing outreach, assessments, and project execution throughout Pennsylvania and the broader tri-state area.
Based in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Jacob brings years of hands-on experience in roofing, remodeling, structural repairs, and full-scale renovation management. Known for his precision, calm leadership, and practical problem-solving ability, he has built a strong reputation as a reliable construction specialist who treats every home and every family with the care and dignity they deserve.
Before joining BuildBright, Jacob worked extensively across residential construction, where he honed his craftsmanship, communication skills, and ability to manage complex projects efficiently. His drive to assist families—especially those overwhelmed by urgent home repair needs—aligned naturally with BuildBright’s mission to educate, renovate, and empower.
In his dual position, Jacob leads BuildBright’s construction strategy organization-wide while also coordinating all Northeast regional projects, ensuring each renovation meets the foundation’s high standards of safety, longevity, and long-term impact. His leadership strengthens partnerships, supports volunteers, and expands BuildBright’s reach across Florida, the East Coast, and the Northeast.
When he is not working, Jacob can often be found in a tree stand, enjoying the outdoors, or riding his motorcycle along the scenic roads throughout the tri-state region. He
also enjoys spending meaningful time with his children, who inspire his commitment to building stronger, safer communities.

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Mario ScottoDiCarlo

Community Outreach Coordinator - BuildBright
Foundation

Mario ScottoDiCarlo is a natural connector, community advocate, and relationship-builder who brings warmth, compassion, and authenticity to the BuildBright Foundation. As the organization’s Community Outreach Coordinator, Mario serves as the bridge between families in need, volunteers, and the network of partners who help power BuildBright’s mission.
Born in Italy and raised in a hardworking, service-driven family, Mario spent much of his life involved in his family’s well-known restaurant—Mario’s, located in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. There, he learned the values that continue to guide him today: treating people with respect, listening before acting, and making everyone feel welcome. Mario worked in the restaurant industry for more than 30 years before transitioning into the  construction field, where he gained firsthand experience supporting homeowners and assisting contractors across a wide range of projects.
Mario recently joined forces with the BuildBright Foundation to apply his relationship building talents, thoughtful communication style, and genuine compassion to serve families facing challenging home repair needs. His ability to connect deeply with people, understand their situations, and coordinate effective support makes him a tremendous asset to the organization and the communities it serves.
Outside of BuildBright, Mario is often found at the dog park with his beloved dog, Bella, or actively involved in Florida’s local pickleball community—where his outgoing personality and friendly nature have made him a familiar face.
Mario is driven by a desire to help others, and his commitment plays a vital role in furthering BuildBright’s mission to educate, renovate, and empower communities across Florida and the East Coast.

Why It Matters

Because Everyone Deserves a Place to Feel Safe, Seen, and Supported

Many in our community are living in unsafe or unsuitable housing — and don’t know where to turn. Others are overwhelmed by the complexities of renovation, vulnerable to poor advice or expensive mistakes.
 We bridge these gaps by offering hands-on support and trusted knowledge, ensuring everyone — regardless of income or background — can live in a home they’re proud of.

Why It Matters

Because Everyone Deserves a Place to Feel Safe, Seen, and Supported

Many in our community are living in unsafe or unsuitable housing — and don’t know where to turn. Others are overwhelmed by the complexities of renovation, vulnerable to poor advice or expensive mistakes.
 We bridge these gaps by offering hands-on support and trusted knowledge, ensuring everyone — regardless of income or background — can live in a home they’re proud of.

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Where We Work

Proudly Serving Our Florida Communities

We’re proud to serve communities across Florida, headquartered in:
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101 E New Haven Avenue, Suite B Melbourne, FL 32901

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Get Involved

Join Our Mission

Whether you’re a construction professional, volunteer, donor, or simply someone who cares — there’s a role for you. Help us change lives through support, time, or resources.
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Lend a Hand. Change a Life.

Your time and skills can help transform homes and restore hope for families and veterans in need.
Become a Volunteer
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Give Hope a Home.

Your donation helps fund critical renovations and educational programs that empower lives from the ground up.
Make a Donation
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Let’s Build Brighter Future

Collaborate with us as a sponsor, nonprofit, or business to expand our reach and impact across communities.
Partner With Us