A La Porte County Life in the Spotlight: Joel Crain
- By: Claire Kenney
- Last Updated: July 15, 2026
Joel Crain serves as executive director of La Porte County Habitat for Humanity. He has worked for the organization for several years, but has been in his current role with the organization for just a few months. Previously, he served as project lead for La Porte County Habitat for Humanity.
“My current work is building homes for individuals and families who otherwise would not be able to afford it, which includes housing for people under medium income to lower income,” said Crain. “Most of my work is project management. I help to secure grants and funding to build houses and manage the office.”
Crain’s father introduced Crain to construction when he was very young. As a result, it was a skill he was able to hone most of his life.
“I like building houses,” said Crain. “I like the whole general contracting and construction aspect.”
The atmosphere at the La Porte County Habitat for Humanity is very positive. The team works together for the good of helping others and it’s a collaborative environment.
“It’s very rewarding when you actually are able to build an affordable house for someone who normally wouldn’t be able to afford it,” said Crain.
Many of the home recipients pay it forward after their home is built by contributing to the construction of others’ homes alongside the La County Habitat for Humanity team. Sometimes these recipients will pay it forward in other ways too.
“There was a single mother that we built a house for through La Porte County Habitat for Humanity, and now she is helping Habitat for Humanity,” said Crain. “Her children have grown and have seen her evolve into a great neighbor. She continues to help us and her neighbors out.”
Crain grew up in Tennessee, but moved to La Porte County almost 30 years ago.
“My wife is from Michigan City so that’s what brought us up here,” said Crain.
Crain and his wife have three children, a boy and two girls. Their children range in age from 21 to 27.
“We’ve loved raising our family in La Porte County,” said Crain. “We have a lot of family and friends here. I love the sense of community.”
Crain also loves the area’s beaches, and spending time at Lake Michigan is one of his favorite activities to do. Some of his other hobbies include gardening and cooking.
“I haven’t found my favorite dish to cook yet, but I’ve come close,” he said.
Because of Crain’s deep love for the work he does with La Porte County Habitat for Humanity and his passion for building, he also considers his work a hobby.
La Porte County Habitat for Humanity is always looking for volunteers to help with their mission.
“I can’t stress enough how rewarding the work is,” said Crain.
To contact La Porte County Habitat for Humanity about volunteer opportunities visit laportehabitat.org. To donate, visit its website here.