HELENA — According to the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office and the Friendship Center, domestic violence is a common occurrence in our community but one that is not discussed enough.
As a result, LCCS and the Friendship Center have partnered up to use Friday night of the Last Chance Stampede and Fair to spread awareness through the Man Up Crusade.
Man Up Crusade
“It happens all the time. I don’t know if it’s every day, but it’s almost every day. It’s happening in Lewis and Clark County a lot more often than we would like,” said Lewis and Clark County Deputy Sheriff Brent Colbert.
“In 2023, law enforcement reported 628 partner or family member domestic violence crimes in Lewis and Clark, Jefferson and Broadwater counties,” according to the Friendship Center.
However, the Department of Justice estimates that between 3 and 15 percent of domestic violence cases are reported to police.
“As you walk around the venue, we want people to remember that there are thousands of people who will be attending or spectating the rodeo, many of whom are experiencing violence at home,” said Gina Bosdorfer, executive director of the Friendship Center.
Everyone is encouraged to wear purple on Friday night, and the Friendship Center will be selling tickets for a 50/50 raffle until 7 p.m., as well as a raffle ticket for a chance to win a Man Up Crusade belt buckle and clutch and necklace set.
Man Up Crusade
The Helena Exchange Club will donate tips earned from operating a concession stand at the rodeo.
The Friendship Center will receive all of the funds raised and use them to pay for everyday necessities for its clients, such as toys for children and new identification for survivors.
But fundraising is only one of the event’s aims.
Man Up Crusade
“Domestic violence, sexual violence, stalking, all of this is happening in secret.” [and] “To see so many people out there in the dark saying, ‘This is unacceptable, you have a right to be safe and we are here for you,’ I think it sends a strong message to victims who may be receiving completely opposite information from their partners or after they’ve been assaulted,” Bosdorfer said.
To learn more about the Friendship Center and its resources, visit their website here
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