Second Heart Homes' annual art auction brings support and surprises

By Ian Swaby
| 7:30 a.m. March 19, 2025

Paul Sykes presents a framed photo print of Li Jian Volk painting Megan Howell.

Sarasota
Neighbors

Paul Sykes, owner of Art Avenue, said those coming from homelessness deserve to look at an expensive piece of art just as much as anyone else.

He has donated repeatedly to the housing projects of Second Heart Homes, which held its 4th Annual Hands Up for Homes Art Auction at the gallery on March 15.

Attendees at the auction also had a chance to take in the power of art, as familiar faces to the crowd appeared in some works donated by 25 local artists.

Continuing in the tradition of past years, the event featured a portrait of Megan Howell, founder and CEO of Second Heart Homes, painted by Li Jian Volk.

However, it also unveiled a portrait of volunteer Bubba Henson, who has spent over 500 hours with the nonprofit, painted by Mary Sencabaugh.

"I had no idea," Henson said. "I was completely blown away. It was such an emotional moment... I have given my heart and soul to this organization, because I have seen it, and I see it work, and I love what they do, and so honestly... to have, all of a sudden, me be included in that, I was like, 'Wow! Am I worthy? I don't know if I'm worthy. It was really cool."

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The organization, which relies on private donations, has a mission of reviving the dignity of homeless individuals with mental illness in Manatee and Sarasota counties, providing housing, as well as critical services, to individuals committed to improving their lives.

Funds raised totaled $150,000, surpassing the goal of $100,000, and will go towards renovating two newly acquired duplexes which will house 12 women.

"It's just incredible what they do," resident Ritchie Mood told the audience. "They have given me so much love... They are so kind to us. Everybody feels loved. We feel accepted. I feel very safe living in their homes. Their homes are beautiful. You have got to see their homes. All these beautiful paintings. Thank you, Mr. Paul."

Bubba Henson sees the portrait of himself.

Li Jian Volk opens a copy of a gift, the book "Lady Kindness" about the marble statue of the same name in Ohio, which Paul Sykes gave to her and Megan Howell.

Nick Rentschler, Bubba Henson and Ritchie Mood

Li Jian Volk stands with the portrait she painted of Megan Howell.

Leslie Travis Howell receives the Best Mom in the Universe Award from her daughter Megan Howell.

Paul Sykes watches as Bubba Henson performs a poetry recitation.

Megan Howell receives Bubba Henson's thanks as he receives the portrait of himself.

Nick Rentschler hugs his friend and fellow resident Ritchie Mood.

Artist Phil Crawford talks with artist Joseph Palmerio

Leslie Travis Howell received the Best Mom in the Universe award from Megan Howell.

Bonnie Kaiser, artist Kelly Kearns and Margaret Timson

Megan Howell, Paul Sykes, Bubba Henson and Mary Sencabaugh

Paul Sykes hugs Dan Dykgraaf, one of the earliest supporters of the auction, whose purchase allowed the auction to reach its goal.

Steve Szantosi and Jen King cheer during the auction.

Paul Sykes holds up the autographed AC/DC poster donated by Sarasota resident and lead AC/DC singer Brian Johnson.

Paul Sykes showcases a portrait of Bob Dylan by Jack Dowd.

Nick Rentschler offers a speech as Paul Sykes looks on.

Megan Howell holds a work by resident Nick Rentschler depicting his past struggles.

author

Ian Swaby

Ian Swaby is the Sarasota neighbors writer for the Observer. Ian is a Florida State University graduate of Editing, Writing, and Media and previously worked in the publishing industry in the Cayman Islands.