This Dodge B3500 Van Is More Than a Work Tool
The perfect vehicle for when working for a better life turns into a quest to make the world a happier place.
Vans and pickup trucks are the backbones of small businesses across America. They’re tools created to haul, move, and build more effectively on a path to success. However, one enterprising couple in Knoxville, Tennessee decided that their Dodge B3500 van could be more than a tool for financial gain. They want to use their van as an instrument to spread joy. Corey and Courtney have turned “Da Van” into a rolling canvas that’s quickly becoming a community staple.
Armed with a vinyl cutting machine and a bag of sharpies, Corey and Courtney slapped a quick sticker on the hood that said “sign me” and left a bag of sharpies hanging off the bumper. At least, that’s where it started.
Truth be told, the original goal was little more than a silly way to decorate a van and make it theirs. As any business owner knows, having a recognizable vehicle in public is basically free advertising.
The bag of markers hanging from the bumper makes it easy to sign the van, but it’s Corey and Courtney’s demeanor and warmness that makes you want to slap on your name on the big blue beast. They’re friendly and open, and always willing to lend a helping hand. Plus, their four-legged mascot Diesel is the happiest dog you’ll ever meet. Within moments, they feel like old friends, and you can’t help but grab a marker and take part in the fun.
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But then something started to happen. The hood was filling up with signatures quickly, and people started sticker bombing the van too. The original plan was to hold the signatures to the hood. With little space available, the marker scribbles started moving over the fenders and towards the doors. As more people started signing “Da Van” and learning about the charming couple who owned it, it became more than a graffitied vehicle. It became a symbol of happiness and friendship. Everyone who signed the van was part of a small club of sorts, and trips to local car meets turn into groups of people showing off their signatures to others and encouraging their friends to sign. One small child even stops to sign a name for one of his friends every time he finds the van just in case they won’t get to.
The van is now a canvas of happiness and everyone who knows it smiles when it rolls by. Those who don’t know are usually curious enough to come ask, and that’s when the contagious happiness takes over. We’ve yet to see anyone say hello that didn’t leave with a mark on the van and a grin on their face.
If you ever find yourself in the Knoxville area see “Da Van” roll by, make sure you stop, say hello, and leave your mark. It’ll be a decision you won’t regret. If you just want to keep up with all their adventures, you can find their Instagram here. Otherwise, check out the gallery below.
And if seeing those nice aftermarket wheels makes you wonder about under-hood modifications, Corey says: “The only engine mod it’s got is 235k miles of hard-earned performance.” We can’t wait to see how it looks when it hits 500k.
