Boats bring joy. Adventure. Memories with family and friends. Quiet mornings on the water. But for many owners, a once-beloved vessel can also become a source of stress. Collecting dust, racking up fees, and slowly falling into disrepair. It can be disheartening.
This post explores practical boat storage ideas and introduces one you might not have considered: donating your boat to Rawhide Youth Services to support at-risk youth across Wisconsin.
We’ll walk through:
If you're looking for a way to free up space while also making a difference in the lives of Wisconsin youth, this guide is for you.
Boat owners know the adage that "a boat is a hole in the water into which you throw money." Many find themselves paying:
All told, traditional boat storage comes with ongoing costs and commitments that add up fast. Instead of continuing to invest time, money, and energy into something you no longer use, consider a simpler, more impactful path: donating your boat to help youth in need across Wisconsin.
When you're no longer using your boat regularly, storage may seem like the easiest solution. Here’s a quick pros and cons look at the most common storage choices:
In the end, all these options ask you to keep paying for something you're not using, and may not need anymore.
Of course, letting go of something that once held meaning isn’t always as simple as saying “goodbye”.
But it can also open the door to something better. For many boat owners, a charitable donation becomes a way to simplify their lives while also supporting a worthwhile cause.
If you want to do something positive with a boat you no longer need or want, donating it to Rawhide Youth Services may be the right next step — a step that supports programs that help at-risk youths across Wisconsin.
When you donate your boat to Rawhide:
What feels like an old or unused boat to you might be exactly what helps change a young person’s life.
Think donating a boat sounds like a hassle? Don’t worry. Rawhide makes it easy from the first call to the final pickup.
Here’s what to expect:
There’s no need to clean, repair, or transport the boat yourself. Rawhide takes care of the details, so you can feel good knowing your donation is going directly toward changing lives.
When you donate your boat to Rawhide, you’re directly contributing to programs that help youth overcome serious challenges and build brighter futures.
Your donation helps fund:
Every boat donated supports that mission, helping struggling youth find stability and hope.
If your boat is sitting unused, now is the time to let it go with purpose. When you donate to Rawhide, you’re doing more than clearing space. You’re helping transform a young person’s life.
Let your boat do something beautiful.
Skip the storage. Skip the stress. Instead, help give opportunities to Wisconsin youth who need it most.
Donate your boat to Rawhide today.
How do I donate my boat to Rawhide Youth Services?
You can start the donation process online or by calling our team directly. We’ll walk you through the steps, answer any questions, and schedule a free pickup at a time that works for you.
Is there any cost to me?
No. Rawhide covers all costs related to towing or picking up your boat, even if it’s not running or currently in storage. There are no fees or surprise charges.
What kinds of boats can I donate?
We accept a wide range of boats: pontoons, sailboats, fishing boats, speedboats, and more. The best way to know for sure is to reach out with your boat’s details. Even older or non-working boats may still be eligible.
Do I need to clean or repair the boat first?
No. We don’t expect your boat to be spotless or in perfect shape. There’s no need to haul it anywhere, make repairs, or do any prep. Just let us know what you have, and we’ll take it from there.
What paperwork do I need?
A title is usually required, but if you’re missing documentation, we may still be able to accept your donation. Our team will help you handle all the necessary paperwork and guide you through any requirements.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Once the donation is complete, you’ll receive a tax-deductible receipt. The amount may vary depending on the sale value of the boat or how it’s used. We recommend consulting a tax advisor for specifics on how your deduction applies.
How does my donation help youth?
Proceeds from your boat donation support Rawhide’s programs, including youth counseling, residential care, job training, and education at Starr Academy. Your gift becomes part of something bigger: helping young people heal, grow, and pursue a better future.
Where does Rawhide offer pickup?
We serve boat donors throughout Wisconsin and the surrounding region. Whether your boat is stored at a marina, in your driveway, or somewhere else, we’ll coordinate pickup wherever it is.