January 8, 2019

A Story from Our Volunteers: Christy Galt

When Christy Galt retired at the age of 60 she knew she wanted to continue to contribute in her community in some way. That’s where the EveryStep Giving Tree thrift store came into play.

Galt has always had a special place in her heart for hospice care. While she hasn’t personally been touched by the end-of-life care, she has admired the mission of such organizations.

When she learned that proceeds from EveryStep Giving Tree sales benefit people served by EveryStep’s hospice care and other programs, she signed up to volunteer.

“I feel like they provide a wonderful service,” she said of EveryStep Hospice (formerly HCI Hospice Care Services). “That we can help provide care for people that can’t afford it, that’s very important.”

Open since 2010, EveryStep Giving Tree helps carry out the organization’s non-profit mission by directing all proceeds from thrift store sales toward programs and services that benefit EveryStep’s patients and clients.

For the past seven years, Galt has been the designated “kitchen lady,” unpacking, cleaning, and testing kitchen products every Tuesday before they make their way to the Urbandale thrift store’s sales floor.

“She’s like Cinderella,” Cheryll Halstead, EveryStep Giving Tree thrift store manager, said. “She does the grunt work, and she comes in anytime we need her, she just does it all.”

In addition to helping prepare the thrift store’s kitchen goods, Galt can be found volunteering her time readying the store for its annual Glitter Party each November. The party marks the store’s official holiday unveiling, where all holiday decorations donated throughout the year are put on display, and fully decorated trees can be purchased. 

“It’s always fun,” Galt said. “But my favorite aspect is the people and giving back. It’s a great place to volunteer.”

EveryStep Giving Tree is always looking for great volunteers. To donate your time at EveryStep Giving Tree by helping customers, accepting donations, or preparing merchandise call the store at 515-270-2414 or visit our website at everystepgivingtree.org.