In the middle of Northern Colorado, a man with a funny sign and a better smile has become a symbol of transformation and positivity.
Eric McCann, known for his humorous signs – with messages such as “Will work for girlfriend” – has turned a simple gesture into a movement of positive community connections. Behind the sign is a story of redemption: from a past weighed down by addiction to a present filled with sobriety, creativity, and a mission to spread joy.
McCann’s signs are more than jokes; they’re a reflection of his journey toward becoming a better person, a better member of the Fort Collins community, and an inspiration to all who pass by.
“I started with getting in trouble, on probation,” McCann said, reflecting on his past. “I had a long history with drugs and alcohol, but the best thing that happened to me was probation. It got me sober.”
McCann said that he did not know how to fill his time once he became sober, so he started doing something simple: making people smile.
His first sign, a B and a smiley face, was a small gesture, but it had a big impact. “Once I started seeing people smile and loving it, the more I saw potential in life,” McCann said. “I’ve always had dreams and goals, but the drugs were holding me back. Every day I get more sober, meet new people, and get out into the community. It’s inspiring to be a solution rather than a problem.”
McCann moved to Fort Collins in 2008, seeking a fresh start after a reputation he felt had been ruined. He didn’t know how to make the connections he wanted, but after getting sober, he knew he wanted to give back in a meaningful way.
“I want to show the Fort Collins community that I am more than my past,” he said. “I want to be someone they can look at and say, ‘He’s doing good.’”
In addition to his sign-holding, McCann has been a painter for 27 years. “I love it, it’s fun,” he said. “Repairing something into something new, it takes a lot of patience and skill.”
But when it comes to his signs, McCann said it’s about the positivity they bring.
“I don’t do social media,” he said. “But I can’t thank the Fort Collins community enough for the love they show me.”
His “Will work for girlfriend” sign has become a fixture of his routine. “It means a lot of things,” McCann explained. “People can relate to it. We need to treat women well and let them know that men appreciate them.”
He added that the sign’s humor contrasts the usual signs people see, which often beg for money or express the sad reasons the holder is on the street.
McCann, originally from California, was inspired by some of the funny signs he saw there, like “I need gas money for my spaceship.” He noted that he doesn’t accept money unless it’s a $100 bill.
On the other side of his “Will work for girlfriend” sign, there’s a humorous twist: “It could be worse – I could be painting,” he said. “Just trying to give a little poke while having a sense of humor.”
For the holiday season, McCann has been known to bring out his “Girlfriend wanted, batteries included” sign, a playful take on how toys never come with batteries. “I’m still trying to find the true meaning of that one,” he said with a laugh.
His interactions with passersby vary. McCann finds that most people are happy to see him. “It depends. Sometimes you get the middle finger, but that’s rare,” he said. “The people I meet are usually very happy to see me out there, throwing out a positive vibe.”
It’s not uncommon for McCann to be recognized around town. “Sometimes I catch someone waving or ridiculously smiling at me,” he said. “I’ve even been called a local legend. It feels good to know people have a positive outlook on me, considering my past.”
For McCann, seeing people smile is one of the most rewarding parts of his daily routine. “It’s awesome,” he said. “It’s a two-way win to see them smile because it makes me smile too.”
McCann shared that his youth was difficult. “My parents divorced when I was young, and they were both bad alcoholics. I went to foster care when I was around 15 or 16, and grew up in Paradise, California. It was a rough area, but it taught me how to man up and take care of myself,” he said. “The only way I knew how was to act tough and survive. It’s a horrible way to live. I got some good sisters, and they’ve been a big part of my life. I have plans to keep more in touch with them.”
When asked about his message for today’s youth, McCann was clear: “Hold on. This is probably our best hope for humankind.”
Eric McCann’s signs may bring a smile, but his story brings inspiration. From probation to local legend, his journey is a redemption arc, reminding us all that it’s never too late to change and make a positive impact.
