VIDEO: Man tears up homeless veteran's cardboard sign and then...

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — When illusionist Rob Anderson learned of Alan McCracken, a homeless U.S. Army veteran on the streets of Las Vegas, he had to know more.

McCracken served in the Army for six years before receiving an honorable discharge. He's now homeless -- and with the aid of a cardboard sign, tries to get people to smile -- being the "nice guy" that he is. That touched Anderson, who wanted to help.

In a video posted to YouTube, Anderson approaches McCracken, takes his sign and rips it to shreds. What happened next is both heartwarming and amazing. Just watch.



The YouTube video above has gotten nearly 2 million views since it was posted October 1st. Since then, Anderson has set up a GoFundMe page, aiming to raise $10,000 for McCracken — money that will help house, feed and clothe him for three months until he can start a new life and get back on his feet.

Anderson wrote on the GoFundMe page:

“Since filming the video, I have located Alan again and gotten to know him.  Alan is just as kind in person as he appears in the video.  He can often be seen in downtown Las Vegas with a large sign that says “SMILE”, just trying to bring a smile to strangers’ faces, even if they don’t give him any money.  After speaking with Alan, he told me “I’m not out here to fill my pockets… I’m out here to fill my soul.  The Lord will provide what I need”.  Alan does not do any drugs, and is proud to tell you about overcoming alcoholism much earlier in life.  He would love to find a job, but as he explained to me, it’s difficult to find a job when you don’t have a home to clean yourself up in, or a decent change of clothes to wear.  If there’s anyone who would be deserving of assistance to get back on their feet, it is Alan McCracken.”


If you'd like to pitch in, visit the GoFundMe page for McCracken by CLICKING HERE.