VAN BUREN, Ark. (KFSM) — A Van Buren man is spreading love and kindness through the River Valley with positive yard signs.
Unfortunately, someone has reportedly stolen some of those signs.
Alan Swaim says he won’t let thieves stop him from completing his mission.
“About three weeks ago I was praying, my health is bad, and I said ‘God there’s a reason I’m still here what is it you want me to do?’,” Swaim said.
Swaim says after he saw a senseless case of road rage he got his answer.
In a matter of weeks, word of Swaim’s mission spread and the demand for signs blew up.
He originally intended to put out just 40 signs but that number has grown to 1,100.
Shannon Burgess heard Swaim’s story and wanted to be a part of it.
This week Swaim learned that five signs had been stolen. No police reports have been filed, and while Swaim is disappointed he has no problem replacing them.
“I’m hoping they’ll read the sign after they steal it and get the message. Maybe go put it back or put it in their yard,” Swaim said.
Swaim along with his friend Lewis Stutts drives around Van Buren installing the signs and he’s also got help in Fort Smith and Alma.
Swaim gives the signs away for free.
He’s paying for them out of his own pocket, but some people have provided donations. It costs about $6.50 per sign.
Swaim says if you want one just message him on Facebook and he’ll be happy to put in your yard.
