'Build for the Cure' raises money for Susan G. Komen

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. - In tough economic times, finding a way to raise money for a beloved charity can be a daunting task.

No doubt everyone has heard of the Race for the Cure, but have you heard of 'Build for the Cure'?

One local man came up with this inventive new way to raise money for his favorite charity and help fight breast cancer.

Brett Handler, of Dreamstar Custom Homes, had contracted to build a house for William Byrnes.

"I spoke with them and asked if it would be okay if I used their house to raise money for Susan G. Komen," says Handler, "We went to the subcontractors and told them we want them to lower their bids by 5%. Most of them did at least that."

Brett Handler and his subcontractors were able to raise $45,000 dollars for Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

By cutting his price for the home and getting his subcontractors and suppliers to do the same, Brett was able to donate the difference to the foundation.

The homeowner was thrilled.

"We were thrilled to do it because it was a chance to do something good," said William Byrnes, the homeowner. "We're always happy to help good causes, so we talked to Brett and he's built us an absolutely beautiful house with everything we want in it."

But what made Brett Handler so passionate about breast cancer?

"My wife lost her mom when she was four years old," said Handler. "So growing up without a mother definitely put that kind of feeling in us that we wanted to eradicate that particular disease."

"I think you really have to give the credit to Brett, it was really his work, and working with the contractors," said Byrnes.

"Putting together a $45,000 check for Susan G. Komen was probably one of the most, certainly one of the top, events of my life," said Handler.

Participating subcontractors included: Abundant Energy, Buckeye Plumbing, Cataldo & Son Plastering, Inc., Centerpoint Constuction, Colorwheel Paint, Distinctive Kitchens& Baths, Gale Insulation, Ibis Golf club, Jade Home Décor, Kohler, Palm Beach Window and Door, PGT Windows & Doors, Southern Waste Systems and Tile Market/Antico Stone.