A night in purple: Last Chance Stampede stands against domestic violence

Helena, Mont. – July 7, 2026 – For the fifth year, the Last Chance Stampede and Fair will partner with the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office and The Friendship Center (TFC) to raise awareness of and financial support for victims of domestic violence.

It’s called the Man Up Crusade, and purple is its designated color. Fans are asked to wear purple to the rodeo on Fri., July 24 to show awareness of domestic violence.

The awareness the Stampede provides for domestic violence is important, said Brent Colbert, Lewis and Clark County Undersheriff.

“Domestic violence never goes away,” he said. “If we can raise awareness, and help one person who is going through that terrible situation, and help that person decide to talk to law enforcement or The Friendship Center, it’s worth it,” he said.

Awareness also extends to the suspect as well, Colbert said. “If we can get the suspect help so they don’t continue to do it, it’s a win.”

Through the Man Up Crusade, the Stampede helps raise funds for The Friendship Center in Helena. The sheriff’s department raffles off a buckle, and law enforcement walk through the fairgrounds, selling 50/50 tickets. Tips given to the Helena Exchange Club for bar sales are also contributed to TFC.

Since 2022, when Purple Night began at the Stampede, nearly $10,000 has been raised for The Friendship Center.

That money goes to a variety of needs, said Kim Patterson, Executive Director of TFC.

“Maybe someone comes to us and needs a car repair, because the car doesn’t work and that restricts them from leaving a situation or being able to get a job. Or they may need a safe phone to use, or a hotel room, or rental assistance, or paying for a deposit so they can get into their own place,” she said.

“When we receive funding that isn’t restricted, it keeps us super nimble and able to respond to every person who comes through our door.”

But the awareness is just as important as the funding, both she and Colbert said.

“There should always be some sort of awareness of domestic violence,” Colbert said.

“The emphasis is the awareness, and solidarity for the survivors,” Patterson said. “Getting in front of people who may not think about domestic violence day in and day out is important.”

The Stampede and Fair runs July 21-25, with concerts by Daughtry on July 21 and Travis Tritt on July 22, followed by three nights of PRCA rodeo July 23-25.

The rodeo starts at 7 pm each night, July 23-25.

Rodeo tickets range in price from $24 to $28. They can be purchased online at LCCFairgrounds.com.

For more information, visit the website.