April 9, 2019

Appraising Collectibles: EveryStep Giving Tree's Pat Ross

Shortly after EveryStep Giving Tree thrift store opened in 2010, volunteer Pat Ross took her place as the Urbandale store’s collectible and jewelry expert.

“My husband had passed away that fall, so I waited until through Christmas, and looked in the paper and there were volunteer opportunities,” she said of joining the EveryStep Giving Tree family.

While Ross began volunteering by taking on many different roles at the store, she quickly found her niche with collectible and jewelry donations. It was a natural fit, really. Ross and her late husband had been involved in buying and selling collectibles and antiques, operating a booth in an antique mall.

“I had been familiar with collectables,” she notes. “I can recognize from the markings if it’s gold, sterling silver, and what the value may be.”

In some cases, Ross will take the items to a local jewelry store for appraisal.

“I just look forward to it,” Ross said, noting that she also volunteers for a food pantry and her church. “I just like being involved with people, and as I get older it’s even more important.”

EveryStep Giving Tree is looking for more volunteers like Pat! Do you have four hours a week to commit to working in our Urbandale store? Then we'd love to talk to you! EveryStep Giving Tree volunteers spend their time completing a number of tasks, including stocking merchandise, cleaning and steaming clothing, manning the register, pricing donations, greeting customers, and more.

If you’re interested in volunteering call 515-270-2414 or visit www.everystepgivingtree.org to fill out a volunteer form.