August 17, 2022

Meet EveryStep Giving Tree Customer Nicole Tam of KCCI

If thrift store shopping brings thoughts of out-of-style clothes suitable for a retro-party or musty, dusty home items stacked on shelves, you’ve never been to EveryStep Giving Tree! The clean, fashionable and thoughtfully arranged items attract savvy buyers who know quality and value.

Shoppers like television reporter and fill-in anchor Nicole Tam.

Nicole, a journalist with KCCI in Des Moines, learned about EveryStep Giving Tree when she received a coupon for the store in the swag bag for EveryStep’s Amazing FundRacer in May, in which she was a competitor.

“After visiting the store, I’m in love!” says Nicole, who snagged designer work and casual wear. “[I found] an awesome Vince Camuto dress that looks sharp on-air. Surprisingly, I even found a luxury Hawaiian designer at Giving Tree! The brand Manaola clothing is usually about $100 per shirt in stores; I was able to purchase it for less than $5 - what a deal! Besides clothing, I also love the collection of household items available at the store.”

Nicole says she loves the variety and quality of items at the store. “As a newscaster, looking professional and sharp is important, and there are so many things at EveryStep Giving Tree that work well for me. I also appreciate how the store keeps shoppers informed about new or interesting products via its Instagram account.”

Purchases at EveryStep Giving Tree help carry out the EveryStep non-profit mission by directing all proceeds from sales toward programs and services which benefit EveryStep's patients, clients and their families. Nicole says that’s important to her. “It's nice to know while I am happy with a nice, new outfit, someone in need is also benefitting at the same time.”

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Nicole immigrated to the U.S. when she was 10 years old. “Since then, I lived in sunny Honolulu, Hawaii for 15 years and loved every moment. While we always try to live Aloha -  that means to share kindness and care - I'm learning fast about the ‘Iowa nice’ culture and love every moment here so far.”

Nicole moved to Des Moines in March of this year and says the weather has been an adjustment, but finds it interesting. “Okay, maybe ask me again [about Iowa] during the winter!” She loves trying new restaurants and thrift shopping in her spare time.

EveryStep Giving Tree thrift store helps carry out the EveryStep non-profit mission by directing all proceeds from thrift store sales toward programs and services which benefit EveryStep's patients, clients and their families. Donations of gently used furniture, clothing and accessories, home décor and household items may be dropped off at the back of the store at 3330 100th Street, or if you have a large donation, a pick-up may be possible. Call 515-270-2414 for information. The store is open for shopping and donations Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Pictured above: KCCI journalist Nicole Tam wears a dress purchased at EveryStep Giving Tree while at the anchor desk.