In the heart of La Porte, Indiana, the holiday season comes to life with the familiar sight of Santa Claus waving from a parade float or greeting children at community events. For many, Santa represents the joy and magic of Christmas, but in La Porte, he also carries the warmth and generosity of a man deeply committed to spreading kindness. Santa Claus has become a beloved fixture of local holiday celebrations, but behind the scenes lies the true magic: the man who brings him to life. Santa goes by many names, but one of his more common ones is Daniel Trent. Year after year, Trent has created an admirable tradition of spreading hope, kindness, and joyfulness to the communities he has served.
At a low point in his life, Trent found himself grappling with anger and frustration, searching for ways to cope. His first sergeant, seeing both his struggles and his potential, made an unexpected suggestion: to channel his energy into becoming Santa Claus. Initially resistant and doubtful, Trent reluctantly agreed, not realizing how transformative the experience would be. What began as an act of appeasement soon became a pivotal turning point in his life.
Trent, a Marine veteran, began his journey as Santa Claus at the age of 25 while stationed overseas. At the time, he was struggling with anger and frustration, unsure of how to channel those emotions. It was his first sergeant who suggested he take on the role of Santa during a Christmas event on base, hoping it might provide him with a positive outlet.
“I laughed and thought, ‘Why would anyone want me to be Santa?’” he said. “I had a bad attitude and no idea what I was doing, but when I put on that suit and saw the joy it brought, especially to the adults on base, it changed something in me. I realized they weren’t seeing me- they were seeing their own childhood memories, their happiest Christmases.”
That first suit was far from glamorous, hastily crafted from leftover fabrics and a beard made from hot-glued cotton balls. Yet it marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Trent. Over the years, the role became more than just a seasonal tradition- it became a way to make a lasting impact on those in need.
Despite the makeshift costume and his skepticism, Trent’s first experience as Santa Claus revealed the profound emotional impact of the role. Witnessing the joy and nostalgia he brought to those around him, especially among adults facing the stress of military life overseas, shifted his perspective. He began to understand that Santa Claus was more than a figure in a suit- it was a symbol of hope and happiness.
Trent went on to found “Santa with a Cause,” a nonprofit organization with a twofold mission: to support families dealing with loss or major illnesses and to inspire young people to give back. Through the nonprofit, Trent and his team of “elves”- volunteers ranging from middle schoolers to college students - organize fundraisers and events to assist those facing difficult times.
“Our goal is to provide families with a bit of light and joy they can hold onto as an emotional anchor during their struggles,” Trent said. “The elves take the lead on deciding who to help and how we’ll make it happen. It’s amazing to watch them grow into compassionate leaders.”
Trent especially cherishes his role in the La Porte Christmas parade, which takes place on a charming, narrow street just off the town’s main road. For Trent, this setting creates a more intimate atmosphere, allowing him to connect closely with the community he holds dear.
"The Christmas parade route in La Porte is one street off the main road, and I love it,” he said. “The narrower street allows me to interact more closely with all the friends and families who attend. Looking into those smiling eyes is something I treasure every year. Events like this remind us that it’s okay to see the good in the world around us and I look forward to returning for as many years as I’m able to do what I love.”
Trent’s candid acknowledgment of his personal struggles is supported by empathy and a commitment to helping others. Rather than letting his past define him, he uses it as fuel to create meaningful moments of positivity for people in need. Whether visiting families during challenging times or offering support through his nonprofit, Trent focuses on leaving behind lasting points of light.
One of Trent’s most memorable experiences involved a local teacher battling breast cancer. With the funds they raised, the nonprofit sent her family to a water park for a few days, professionally capturing the trip with thousands of photos. When she passed away shortly after, her children expressed how those memories- including other gifts- helped them through their grief.
“It’s moments like that where you realize the true impact of what we do,” Trent said. “You can’t take away the hurt, but you can create a positive point of light for people to hold onto.”
As “Santa with a Cause” continues to grow, Trent envisions building a “North Pole Depot,” a central hub where the nonprofit can expand its outreach and even support other community groups. The depot would provide resources and facilities for those working to help others, amplifying the positive impact across La Porte and beyond.
“The idea is to create a space where we can do more for those in need,” Trent said. “It’s about building a network of kindness and support, not just during the holidays, but all year round.”
Trent’s personal journey has shaped his approach to the role. Making the most out of having ADHD, he embraces his strengths in problem-solving while relying on his family and team to handle the finer details of running a nonprofit. His family, including his brothers and children, now play active roles in the organization and find healing and purpose in their involvement.
“Being Santa isn’t just a gift for others- it’s a gift for me,” Trent said. “It’s a reminder that no matter how difficult things get, there’s always room to create joy, to be a light for someone else.”
Through his role as Santa Claus, Trent has brought joy to countless families, reminding everyone of the magic that comes from shared moments and selfless acts. His commitment to spreading light and supporting those in need has made him a beloved figure and a symbol of the town’s holiday traditions. As he continues to wear the suit year after year, Trent’s impact reaches beyond the holiday season, steadily continuing a legacy of kindness and community spirit.