Each year in Lincoln, Montana, sawdust fills the air, chainsaws roar, and massive logs are transformed into detailed works of art—all for a purpose far bigger than the craft itself. The Sam’s Hope Chainsaw Competition has quickly become one of the most meaningful fundraising events in the region, uniting artists, volunteers, and the community around a shared mission of supporting families impacted by childhood cancer. In just a few years, the event has raised over $150,000 and continues to grow as it enters its fourth year in 2026.
A Legacy Built from Loss & Love
The competition is rooted in the story of Roland “Sam” Kolve, a Montana teen whose life was cut short at just 15 years old after a battle with a rare form of cancer. His family established the Sam’s Hope Foundation of Montana in his honor to help ease the financial burden placed on families dealing with pediatric cancer diagnoses and long-term treatment. According to reporting on the foundation’s early events, Sam’s medical journey left his family with hundreds of thousands of dollars in hospital expenses, shaping the mission that drives everything today. From that personal tragedy, a community effort was born—one focused not only on remembrance, but on direct, practical support for others going through similar struggles. The chainsaw competition grew from a small gathering of local carvers into a multi-day event drawing artists from across the United States and beyond.
Four Days of Art in Motion
What makes the Sam’s Hope Chainsaw Competition unique is its combination of live artistry and high-energy competition. Over the course of four days, carvers work on large logs—often sourced locally—and shape them into detailed sculptures featuring Montana wildlife, figures, and imaginative designs. Between the main carvings, quick-carve sessions keep audiences engaged while raising additional funds through auctions. By the end of the weekend, every major piece is auctioned off, with proceeds directly benefiting Sam’s Hope Foundation. The event has consistently drawn strong participation from both artists and attendees, with carvers often describing the experience as deeply meaningful because their work directly supports children and families in need. The atmosphere blends festival energy with heartfelt purpose: food, music, spectators watching chainsaws transform raw timber into fine detail, and volunteers working behind the scenes to make everything run smoothly.
Community Impact & Growing Momentum
Over the years, the event has steadily expanded in both size and impact. Early iterations raised tens of thousands of dollars, and momentum has continued building as more artists, sponsors, and visitors get involved. Community support has played a major role, from providing lodging and meals for carvers to helping fund logistics that keep the event accessible and welcoming to all. Beyond the numbers, the competition has become a symbol of how rural communities can rally together for a cause. Local businesses, volunteers, and families return year after year, turning the event into both a fundraiser and a tradition. The ripple effect of the funds raised is felt far beyond Lincoln, helping families across Montana facing overwhelming medical expenses.
A Future Carved in Hope
As the Sam’s Hope Chainsaw Competition enters its fourth year, its mission remains steady: to turn art into action and creativity into compassion. Each sculpture sold represents more than craftsmanship—it represents relief for a family, support during crisis, and a lasting tribute to a young life that continues to inspire change.
Sam’s Hope Foundation of Montana
With over $150,000 already raised and growing awareness each year, the event shows no signs of slowing down. It stands as a powerful reminder that even the loudest tools can be used to create something beautiful and meaningful when guided by purpose. Sam’s Hope Foundation of Montana continues to be the heart of this effort, carrying forward its mission to support families facing childhood cancer while honoring Sam’s legacy in a way that transforms loss into lasting hope.
