The Discovery Shop in Los Gatos is now open at their new location, 150 W. Main Street, in the former Joseph A. Banks space, adjacent to Breaking Dawn. It’s a far cry from their smaller former location on East Main Street near the Garden Hotel, which they simply outgrew. More elaborate and inviting window displays are now possible, and the separation of items makes for easier shopping.
You’ll find some delightful holiday décor, and many affordable treasures, including some handsome mirrors, tableware, cocktail sets and lamps that once graced someone’s stately home, likely right here in Los Gatos. The selection of women’s slacks, dressy pants and workout attire is plentiful, and you’ll find an abundance of sweaters, jackets of all types and a variety of vests. A rack with high-end brand name clothing, some never worn, is well-worth browsing, if just for the nostalgia factor. There are some pretty righteous coats, too, and down parkas, along with jewelry and shoes. There are items for men, women and children, and it’s always an adventure to drop in.
General Manager, Rita Melamed, tells us that the recent ribbon cutting, which included the chance to take selfies with an antique car, along with the opportunity to bid on auction items, was a success.
“We had a great day and lots of happy customers,” says Melamed. “Our auctions had several bids and two people kept outbidding each other on the PaddleOut for 4, offered by Outrigger of Santa Cruz. Snacks and boxed drinks were donated from two of our local grocers, and we send a huge thank you to both of them. Shoutout to Outrigger Santa Cruz and Double D’s Sport Grill Bar for their support with their generous auction items.” Double D’s donated a gift certificate.
Melamed reminds us, “The Mission of the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop is ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. Most of us have had an experience with cancer, whether personal, or within our circle of friends and family.”
While donations of clothing in good condition and gently used household décor items like glassware and serveware are welcome, they are also set up to take cash donations as well. Says Melamed, “I would like to ask the community to consider year-end giving to the American Cancer Society at the Discovery Shop in Los Gatos, as we are now able to accept year-end giving.” They recently had a surprise donation from a gentleman who walked in with a $500 check for the American Cancer Society. You can make their day by doing the same.
Thriftmas Shopping Opportunities
Melamed says she heard the word “thriftmas” from one of their customers and liked it. Here are many ways to participate.
Nov. 15 Festive Holiday Outfits event begins
Nov. 21 Ski/Snow wear pop-up event
Nov. 28-29 Shop closed for Thanksgiving
Nov. 30 Gobble Up the Savings, with 25% off entire store
Dec. 5 Gifts That Give Back Event. New items for Thriftmas gifting
Dec. 6 Visit the Shop until 8pm before or after the Tree Lighting ceremony at Los Gatos Town Plaza
Dec. 13-14 Semi-Annual Sale event. 50% off everything on the sales floor in the Shop
Dec. 24-Jan. 2 Shop closed for the Holidays
Although the Shop currently enjoys the talents of its 18 committed volunteers, the need for more is especially keen during the holiday period. Volunteers who can commit one day a week for four hours to help at the Shop would really be appreciated. There are two shifts per day: 10am-2pm, and 2-5:30pm. They are open seven days a week, Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm, and Sunday 11am-4pm.
Here’s what some of them have to say:
“I enjoy contributing my time to a good cause and interacting with the variety of people who come to the store for different reasons. I like arranging displays to give donated items a new lease on life! And really like all the other volunteers!” – Kelly Morgan
“I am retired and strongly felt that I should contribute some time to a good cause. I feel good about volunteering at the Discovery Shop.” – Namita
“Volunteering at the Discovery Shop in Los Gatos is deeply rewarding. I love being a part of a team that supports the American Cancer Society, connects with the community, and brings new life to donated items. I encourage anyone looking for meaningful volunteer opportunity to join us. It’s a welcoming, fun, impactful experience that makes a real difference.” – Rose
If you’re interested in volunteering, contact Rita Melamed at ri**********@ca****.org or 408-354-5917.
