resume volunteer cover letter

Volunteer Cover Letter Example

Cover letter examples, cover letter guidelines, how to format an volunteer cover letter, cover letter header, cover letter header examples for volunteer, how to make your cover letter header stand out:, cover letter greeting, cover letter greeting examples for volunteer, best cover letter greetings:, cover letter introduction, cover letter intro examples for volunteer, how to make your cover letter intro stand out:, cover letter body, cover letter body examples for volunteer, how to make your cover letter body stand out:, cover letter closing, cover letter closing paragraph examples for volunteer, how to close your cover letter in a memorable way:, pair your cover letter with a foundational resume, key cover letter faqs for volunteer.

Start your volunteer cover letter by addressing the recipient by name, if possible. If not, use a formal salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." Then, introduce yourself and express your interest in the volunteer position. Mention where you found the opportunity and why it caught your attention. It's important to show enthusiasm and commitment right from the start. For example, you could say, "I am excited to apply for the volunteer position at XYZ organization, as I have always admired your commitment to environmental conservation." This not only shows your interest but also that you've done your research about the organization.

The best way for volunteers to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity. This can be done by saying something like, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your organization and look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further." This ending is effective because it shows appreciation, eagerness, and openness to further conversation. It's also important to include your contact information so they can easily reach you. Lastly, end with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name. This leaves a positive, professional impression.

Volunteers should include the following elements in a cover letter: 1. Personal Information: Start with your name, address, contact number, and email address at the top of the letter. 2. Salutation: Address the letter to the appropriate person, if possible. If you don't know the name, use a general greeting like "Dear Volunteer Coordinator." 3. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the volunteer position you are applying for. If someone referred you, mention their name in this section. 4. Motivation: Explain why you want to volunteer for the organization. This could be because you support their cause, want to give back to the community, or are looking to gain specific skills or experiences. 5. Relevant Skills and Experiences: Highlight any skills, experiences, or qualifications that make you a good fit for the volunteer role. This could include previous volunteer work, relevant work experience, or personal experiences that have prepared you for the role. 6. Availability: Mention your availability for volunteering. Be as specific as possible about the days and times you are available. 7. Closing: Thank the reader for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for potentially joining their team. Include your contact information again and express your willingness to provide further information if needed. 8. Signature: End the letter with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name. Remember, a cover letter for a volunteer position is just as important as one for a paid position. It's your chance to show your passion for the cause, highlight your relevant skills, and demonstrate your commitment to volunteering.

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Church volunteer resume example.

Community Volunteer Resume Example

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Community Volunteer Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Crafting a standout community volunteer cover letter is a crucial step towards making a meaningful contribution to your community. As a community volunteer, your role can span from securing local neighborhoods to lending a hand at public parks.

It's a role that requires a blend of skill, dedication, and that special spark of community spirit. Let's ignite that spark in your cover letter with our handy tips, inspiring examples and customizable templates.

Continue reading to learn how to:

• How to give your community volunteer cover letter visual appeal
• Why it is essential to personalize the content of your cover letter
• Which key details to include in your community volunteer introduction
• How you can showcase your qualifications as a community volunteer
• What to say in your cover letter conclusion to make it effective
• Where to find the best job search resources for community volunteers

1. How to give your community volunteer cover letter visual appeal

When applying to a position as a community volunteer, providing a volunteer organizer with a well-written, compelling cover letter is essential.

To start off your cover letter strong, you must give it visual appeal by creating a cover letter hader and cover letter headline .

Your header will always come first, placed in the top left corner of your letter. In a header, you should include all the vital information about who you are and who the intended recipient of the letter is.

This information includes:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information (email address, phone number, LinkedIn, etc.)
• The name of the organization you are applying to

Here is an example of a well-formatted community volunteer header

Jacob Jackson , Community Volunteer (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/jacob-jackson

To: McDowell Community Center 1234 Street Address Newark, NJ 07101

A few spaces below your header is where you should place your cover letter headline. The headline looks best centered on the page and should include four key elements:

• A keyword : The keyword should be related to the position — typically, the best keyword to use is the position title itself.
• A number or trigger word: A number or trigger word helps to outline how many key points there are in the cover letter, informing the reader of what they can expect from the letter.
• An adjective and/or verb: To give your headline a more intriguing sound and structure, you should include a powerful adjective or verb that describes you and your qualifications.
• A promise statement: It is important to let the reader know that this letter is written specifically for them — to accomplish this, include a personalized promise statement that directly references the person and/or their business.

Here is an example of an excellent headline from a community volunteer cover letter

3 Reasons Why I Love Community Volunteering & How This Passion Can Benefit Your Organization

Trigger Word/Number: 3 Reasons Keyword: Community Volunteering Adjective/Verb: Love, Benefit Promise: Your Organization

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2. how to personalize the content of your cover letter.

Your next key step in the cover letter writing process is to personalize the letter for a specific volunteer organizer or organization . Personalization is important, as it helps you make your letter much more relevant and valuable to the person reading it.

The personalization process is done by first researching the organization before writing and then using the information you gather within the letter. For instance, if the organization is currently working on a major community project, you could reference this project and explain how your skills can help them accomplish it.

Additionally, you should try to discover who is responsible for onboarding new volunteers, such as a head volunteer organizer. With this detail, you can create a personalized greeting that addresses this person by name, letting them know immediately about the research you have completed.

Here are 3 examples of personalized community volunteer cover letter greetings

Dear Head Volunteer Rachel Harris,

• Dear Volunteer Organizer Rachel Harris,
• Dear Ms. Rachel Harris,

3. How to write a compelling community volunteer cover letter introduction

As a community volunteer, your first primary goal with your cover letter should be to showcase your passion for service and volunteering — and there’s no better place to do this than in your introduction .

A cover letter introduction should include:

• A concise summary of your experience as a volunteer, including any specialized areas of expertise
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this organization
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible) — including a mutual acquaintance can help build rapport with the volunteer organizer, as well as provide them with a professional reference that they trust. To gain a mutual acquaintance, try networking through professional platforms like LinkedIn.

Here is an example of a strong introduction from a community volunteer cover letter

As a community volunteer with more than 4 years of experience working in community youth centers, I was beyond thrilled to learn of your center’s volunteering opportunities. I am passionate about working with underprivileged youth in my community to help provide them with the resources and support needed to excel at both school and home. My mentor Ms. Lisa May, a local social worker that often works with your center, let me know about this opportunity and encouraged me to apply.

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4. How to showcase your qualifications as a community volunteer

A great community volunteer can possess many different skills and qualifications — the key is to determine which are most relevant to the position at hand .

No matter which skills, accomplishments, or other qualifications you choose to include, make sure to relate them back to the position as much as possible. For instance, if you are applying for a position as a community volunteer in a local garden, describe your teamwork skills and how they can benefit the community garden team.

Here are 6 skills to describe in a community volunteer cover letter

• Teamwork and collaboration
• Communicating with community members
• Administrative tasks
• Leadership (describe a specific leadership style)
• Punctuality

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a cover letter

As a community volunteer for a local homeless shelter, I helped with community outreach to gather donations for the shelter food bank. In this role, I helped to develop a new outreach incentive program that increased donations by more than 15% per month.

5. How to conclude your community volunteer cover letter effectively

The final step to writing your community volunteer cover letter is to write an effective conclusion . In this conclusion, make sure to include:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• How and when you can best be contacted
• When you plan to follow up
• A formal sign-off

Here is an example of a great conclusion from a community volunteer cover letter

As the newest volunteer at your organization, I know I can help uplift and support the local community with compassion and commitment. I greatly look forward to hearing from you and hope to hear back by next Tuesday regarding this volunteer opportunity. Please reach me any time Monday through Friday before 5 p.m., or between 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends.

With Sincerity,

[Applicant Name]

6. The best job search resources for community volunteers

Finding the right volunteering opportunity can be as rewarding as the volunteer work itself. Here’s a selection of resources to make the search for your ideal community volunteering role more straightforward:

• Volunteer match websites:  Platforms like VolunteerMatch  or  Idealist  are great resources for finding volunteer opportunities in communities all over the country.
• Local non-profits and charities:  Reach out to non-profit organizations in your area. They often need volunteers and can likely find a role that suits your skills and interests.
• Community centers:  Local community centers frequently run a range of programs that rely on volunteers. Be sure to check out their websites or pay them a visit in person.
• Social media:  Use platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn to find local volunteering groups and opportunities.
• Government resources:  Your local council or city website may have a page dedicated to volunteer opportunities.

Remember, volunteering is a journey. Equip yourself with the right tools, and you're sure to find an opportunity that resonates with your dedication to community service.

Community Volunteer Cover Letter FAQ

Your community volunteer cover letter should contain your personal contact details, a professional greeting, and a brief introduction. Additionally, mention your relevant volunteer (if any), skills, and reasons for wanting to volunteer. Conclude with a strong closing statement and your signature.

A tailored cover letter demonstrates your investment in the role. Show this by mentioning the organization by name, understanding its mission, and explaining how your experiences align with their work.

Ideally, your cover letter should be a maximum of one page. Aim to make every word count while discussing your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for community service.

A cover letter is a chance to demonstrate your commitment and explain why you're a suitable candidate. It can highlight your passion for community service, showcase your relevant skills, and help you stand out among other applicants.

Yes, similarly to job applications, it's important to customize your cover letter for each volunteer role. This shows your conscientiousness and interest in the particular cause or position.

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as  The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.

All volunteering cover letter examples

• Refugee Volunteer

All community volunteer cover letter examples

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4 Professional Volunteer Cover Letter Examples for 2024

In your volunteer cover letter, showcase your passion for the cause you wish to support. Let this enthusiasm radiate from every word you write. Demonstrate your understanding of the organization's work and how your skills align with their needs. Your dedication and relevance will make your application stand out.

Cover Letter Guide

Volunteer Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Volunteer Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Community Organizer

Hospital volunteer.

Crafting a compelling volunteer cover letter can be a stumbling block, even for those well into their job search journey. You understand it's not to echo your resume, but rather to weave the narrative of your proudest professional moment. Striking that fine balance between formality and genuine passion, steering clear of overused clichés, all while fitting your story neatly on one page can feel like an uphill battle. It's time to tackle these challenges head-on and let your dedication shine through.

• Create a volunteer cover letter to persuade the recruiters you're the best candidate for the role;
• Use industry-leading volunteer cover letter templates and examples to save time;
• Dedicate your volunteer cover letter space to your best achievement;
• Make sure your volunteer cover letter meets recruiters' expectations and standards.

Avoid starting at the blank page for hours by using Enhancv's AI - just upload your resume and your volunteer cover letter will be ready for you to (tweak and) submit for your dream job.

If the volunteer isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Volunteer resume guide and example
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• ATS cover letter example
• Spanish Translator cover letter example
• Non Profit cover letter example
• Site Manager cover letter example
• No Degree cover letter example
• US cover letter example
• Military to Civilian cover letter example
• Returning to Work cover letter example
• Career Change cover letter example

Volunteer cover letter example

MICHELLE SANDERS

New York, NY

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasis on alignment with the organization's mission showcases not only an understanding of the company's values but also a personal commitment to their cause, which is crucial for advocacy-based roles.
• Demonstration of relevant experience by citing specific achievements, such as leading a successful fundraising initiative, evidences the candidate's capability to contribute effectively to the organization's objectives—fundraising prowess is often essential for nonprofit work.
• Highlighting soft skills like empathy, organization, and proactive teamwork presents an image of a well-rounded candidate who can navigate the social complexities of work in the non-profit sector, especially when dealing with vulnerable populations.
• A clear call to action for an opportunity to further discuss the candidate's fit for the role, which conveys enthusiasm and initiative, may increase the chances of securing an interview.

What about your volunteer cover letter format: organizing and structuring your information

Here is one secret you should know about your volunteer cover letter assessment. The Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't analyze your cover letter.

You should thus focus on making an excellent impression on recruiters by writing consistent:

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs (and explanation)
• Promise or Call to action
• Signature (that's optional)

Now, let's talk about the design of your volunteer cover letter.

Ensure all of your paragraphs are single-spaced and have a one-inch margins on all sides (like in our cover letter templates ).

Also, our cover letter builder automatically takes care of the format and comes along with some of the most popular (and modern) fonts like Volkhov, Chivo, and Bitter.

Speaking of fonts, professionals advise you to keep your volunteer cover letter and resume in the same typography and avoid the over-used Arial or Times New Roman.

When wondering whether you should submit your volunteer cover letter in Doc or PDF, select the second, as PDF keeps all of your information and design consistent.

The top sections on a volunteer cover letter

• Header: Include your contact information, the date, and the recipient's details to ensure the cover letter is addressed properly and to make it easy for the recruiter to reach out to you.
• Greeting: Use a formal salutation to address the hiring manager or volunteer coordinator, as it demonstrates professionalism and respect from the outset of your communication.
• Introduction: Highlight your enthusiasm for volunteering and mention the specific role you're applying for, as this section sets the tone and shows your genuine interest in contributing to the organization.
• Body: Detail your relevant skills, experiences, and motivations for wanting to volunteer, as recruiters look for candidates whose values align with their mission and who can bring valuable contributions to their team.
• Closing: Reiterate your interest in the role and thank the reader for considering your application, providing a polite and professional end to your cover letter that leaves a positive impression.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Passion for the cause: Demonstrates dedication and a personal connection to the mission of the organization.
• Proven commitment through previous volunteer work: Shows experience in and understanding of the nonprofit sector or similar volunteer roles.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills: Essential for interacting with various stakeholders and team collaboration.
• Flexibility and adaptability: Indicates the ability to handle diverse tasks and adjust to changing environments common in volunteer settings.
• Leadership and initiative: Ideal for taking charge of projects and showing the willingness to go beyond assigned tasks.
• Cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness: Important for organizations working with diverse communities or global outreach.

How to address hiring managers in your volunteer cover letter greeting

Goodbye, "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To whom it may concern!"

The salutation of your volunteer cover letter is how you kick off your professional communication with the hiring managers.

And you want it to start off a bit more personalized and tailored, to catch the recruiters' attention.

Take the time to find out who's recruiting for the role (via LinkedIn or the company page).

If you have previously chatted or emailed the hiring managers, address them on a first or last name basis.

The alternative is a "Dear HR team" or "Dear Hiring Manger", but remember that a "Dear Ms. Simmons" or "Dear Simon," could get you farther ahead than an impersonal greeting.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear [Organization Name] Team,
• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Specific Contact Person's Title and Last Name],
• Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
• Dear [Department Name] Director,
• Dear Members of the [Committee or Department Name],

The volunteer cover letter intro: aligning your interest with the company culture

You only have one chance at making a memorable first impression on recruiters with your volunteer cover letter.

Structure your introduction to be precise and to include no more than two sentences.

Here are some ideas on how to write a job-winning volunteer cover letter introduction:

• get creative - show off your personality from the get-go (if this aligns with the company culture);
• focus on your motivation - be specific when you say what gets you excited about this opportunity.

How to select your best achievement for the middle, or the volunteer cover letter body

You probably feel exhausted by this point in your application: you've dived into all the details of your success and skills in your volunteer resume.

What else can you include in your volunteer cover letter body ?

Well, for starters, the next three to six paragraphs should show you further value as a professional. Or, why should recruiters choose you?

Think back on a noteworthy achievement that answers key job requirements and dive deep.

Structure your volunteer cover letter middle as you'd a story: following chronological logic and highlighting outcomes, thanks to skills.

At the end of the day, you'd want recruiters to be able to see you as the best candidate for the role and understand more about who you are and what makes your success unique (and valuable to the role).

Time to wrap up your volunteer cover letter

Writing the closing paragraph of your volunteer cover letter is just as important as the salutation.

You have to make it personalized to the job advert and recruiter.

Experienced professionals advise candidates to end with a request or reminder for follow-up. Write that you're grateful for the opportunity, and, at the same time, hint that you're available for the next steps of the process.

Otherwise, you could also conclude your volunteer cover letter by facing the future. How do you see yourself, as part of the team? In particular, how would you settle in your new role in the first six months to a year?

What to write on your volunteer cover letter, when you have zero experience

The best advice for candidates, writing their volunteer cover letters with no experience , is this - be honest.

If you have no past professional roles in your portfolio, focus recruiters' attention on your strengths - like your unique, transferrable skill set (gained as a result of your whole life), backed up by one key achievement.

Or, maybe you dream big and have huge motivation to join the company. Use your volunteer cover letter to describe your career ambition - that one that keeps you up at night, dreaming about your future.

Finally, always ensure you've answered why employers should hire precisely you and how your skills would benefit their organization.

Key takeaways

Winning recruiters over shouldn't be difficult if you use your volunteer cover letter to tell a story that:

• Is personalized by greeting your readers and focusing on key job skills greets;
• Isn't spread all over the place, but instead focuses on one key achievement and selling your value as a professional;
• Introduces your enthusiasm for the role, passion for the job, or creativity in communication;
• Is also visually appealing - meeting the best HR practices;
• Ends with a nod to the future and how you envision your growth, as part of the company.

Volunteer cover letter examples

Explore additional volunteer cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

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• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
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How to List Volunteer Experience On a Resume [W/ Examples]

Let’s face it - first impressions matter. And when it comes to job search, your resume will be the first impression a potential employer will have of you. 

This begs the question: how do you make your resume stand out in a pile of job applications? 

You try to make every section count. And a particularly beneficial one to have in this regard is volunteer experience.

A volunteer experience section can be a great way to showcase your skills if you’re just starting on your career, or even if you have a work experience gap on your CV. It is also an indicator that you are not just any other money-driven applicant, but also someone who cares about giving back to the community. 

But what is the best way - and time - to include volunteer experience in your resume? That’s exactly what this article will show you.

Read on to find out: 

What is a Resume Volunteer Experience Section?

• When to Include Volunteer Experience in Your Resume?
• How to Include Volunteer Experience in Your Resume?
• How to Get Your Volunteer Experience Section Right?

The volunteer experience section of a resume includes any unpaid work you’ve done that could be relevant to your application. In addition to being an effective way to showcase your professional skills, it also shows that you are a purpose-driven person. The studies speak for themselves - volunteering can open a new path to employment. 

You can list volunteer experience either under the work experience section or as a separate section entirely. Below, we’re going to explain how, exactly, you can do both.

But first, here’s an example of how volunteer experience (as a separate resume section) looks like: 

When to Include Volunteer Experience in Your Resume? 

While having a volunteer experience section in your resume can be an asset, it’s not always going to be useful. There’s value in knowing when volunteering can be relevant in improving your chances to get hired and when it can be dead-weight.  

Here’s our cheat sheet on when to and when not to include volunteer experience in your resume. 

• The company you are applying for emphasizes ‘giving’ as part of its identity. Employees at VMware, for example, are given volunteer hours which they can use instead of doing standard work.  
• You have recently graduated and have no work experience . 
• You have extra space on your resume or an employment gap. 
• You are applying for an NGO, non-profit, or charity organization . 
• The volunteer work is outdated. Volunteer work is awesome, yes, but you want it to be as time-relevant for the recruiter reviewing your application as possible. And experience from a decade ago rarely cuts it.
• You can fill up your resume with more relevant sections, such as paid work and education . As a rule of thumb, the first thing a recruiter notices in a resume is paid experience and education - volunteering experience is just a nice-to-have extra. This means you shouldn’t squeeze in volunteer experience if it means cutting out more important sections from your resume. 

How to Include Volunteer Experience In Your Resume

Now that we went over the whens, let’s go over the most important part - how to include volunteer experience in your resume in a way that highlights your skills and emphasizes your achievements. 

As we mentioned before, volunteer experience can be a section of its own or can count as work experience in some specific cases. 

DO include it as part of the work experience section if: 

• The experience is super relevant to the job you are applying for.
• You have otherwise little paid experience. 

For example, let’s say you’re applying for a job in Journalism, but you’ve never worked as a professional in the field. However, you have plenty of journalism experience from years of volunteering at your university’s newspaper. 

Journalism Experience 

Reading Owl Daily

2017 - 2019

• Volunteering experience as Reporter for the University’s daily newspaper. Covered the News section, as well as handled copy editing. 
• Kept track of the newspaper’s online presence and updated its WordPress site daily. 
• Wrote a total of 50 interviews for two years. 

Now, when your volunteering experience isn’t specifically related to the job you’re applying for, you’re better off creating a separate volunteer experience section and formatting it just like the work experience section:

• Volunteering Position
• Organization You Volunteered For
• Responsibilities & Achievements

If you want your unrelated volunteering experience to stand out, however, simply listing your responsibilities and achievements won’t do. Instead, you want to show how the volunteer experience ties you to the job you are currently applying for.   

Confused? Let us cover an example: 

Say that you have been helping at the local animal rescue center for a year, but now you’re applying for a marketing company. Your volunteer experience is not marketing-relevant, but it can be tailored as such.

Volunteer Experience 

• Helped develop an online platform for stray animals’ adoption that saved 100+ dogs and cats, on behalf of the Animal Rescue Center.
• Wrote copy for the online platform and created banners and brochures to advertise it.  

Keep in mind, though, that tailoring is not something that you have to do all the time - volunteering experience is going to help whether or not it’s related to your field.

If you can tailor it to the job, though, that is, for sure, a big plus.

Volunteer Experience Section Example

Looking for some inspiration? Look no further!

Here’s what a well-crafted volunteer experience section looks like on a resume: 

International Federation Red Cross, France

5/2016 - 5/2017

• Provided presentations about Red Cross programs in the community. 
• Assisted the fundraising team with writing grant proposals. 

Now, if you’re listing your volunteering experience as part of the work experience section, here’s how it could look like if you were applying for a job in the communications field:

Team London Volunteer 

Mayor of London Office

09/2018 - 08/2019

• Supported the implementation of a new external communications strategy.
• Created a new e-newsletter to share with a variety of stakeholders to keep them up to date with internal news and to gain new supporters.  
• Generated visual content for the organization’s social media platform. 

How to Get Your Volunteer Experience Section Right 

There’s more to creating a compelling volunteer experience section than just writing it out. Here are our top 3 tips on including volunteering in your resume the right way:

Tip #1: Follow the Format. 

As we mentioned before, there is a pretty straightforward format one can follow to list volunteering experiences.

Here’s what it looks like:

• Your position and/or title 
• Company/Organization name
• Achievements/Responsibilities 
• Volunteering timeframe 

Tip #2: List Achievements Over Responsibilities. 

When possible, you want to focus more on achievements as opposed to responsibilities in your resume (and this applies to volunteer experience, too).

Here’s what we mean by that:

Let’s assume that you have volunteer experience as a research assistant. The responsibilities are pretty obvious - i.e. compiling and distributing questionnaires, collecting and analyzing relevant data, doing statistical and analytical work, etc. 

The HR knows all this - they’re reviewed hundreds of similar resumes, all of which mention the same responsibilities.

If you, however, focus on showing how you concretely contributed to the research, by say, pointing out that 50% of the data analyzed by you was used to advance it, you’d have told the recruiter something completely new and compelling that makes you stand out. 

Focusing on your achievements, when relevant, is your best chance at giving your resume the upper hand. 

To give you a more concrete example, though, here’s a comparison of achievements done right: 

• Compiled and distributed qualitative questionnaires with a 90% response rate. 
• Completed 50% of the data analysis later used to advance the project’s research. 

However, in some industries, you might have fewer achievements to list than in others. If you volunteered at your local homeless shelter, your day-to-day goal probably wasn’t to distinguish yourself but help others. If that’s the case, listing responsibilities is OK. 

Here’s how that would look like in your resume: 

• Registering homeless people into the shelter.
• Unpacking and distributing food aids. 
• Oversee opening and closing of the shelter 2 times/week. 

Tip #3: Keep It Relevant

Only mention your volunteering experience if they’re recent and relevant .

For example, if you volunteered 5 years back, and since then you have worked several professional roles in your field, you don’t need to go back in time and mention that volunteering experience (even if it was an amazing learning experience).

In such a case, your volunteering experience is neither recent (it happened 5 years ago), nor relevant (you probably learned a lot more from your recent positions).

Key takeaways 

And we’re done! By now, you should know everything on how to include volunteering experience in a resume.

Now, let’s recap all the main points we’ve covered:

• Volunteer experience can be a huge plus to your job application, especially if you are a recent graduate, have a gap in your resume, or are applying to an NGO.  
• List volunteer experience either as a separate section or as work-related experience (if your volunteering experience is related to the job you’re applying for). 
• When listing your volunteering experiences, when possible, include achievements over responsibilities. Responsibilities are what put you on the same plate as all other applicants - your achievements are what set you apart! 

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Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 non profit volunteer cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Non Profit Volunteer cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Non Profit Volunteer
• Non Profit Volunteer Coordinator
• Non Profit Program Coordinator
• Community Outreach Volunteer
• Volunteer Coordinator
• Event Planning Volunteer
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Non Profit Volunteer resume examples

Non Profit Volunteer Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, diverse skillset and experience.

This cover letter highlights the candidate's range of skills and experiences, which is important for a non-profit volunteer role. It demonstrates their ability to adapt to different situations and make a lasting impact in various capacities.

Enthusiastic and empathetic individual

By showcasing the candidate's personal qualities and passion for helping others, this cover letter stands out from others that may focus only on professional achievements. It's important to showcase your personal traits when applying for a non-profit role, as they are often just as important as your professional skills.

Show Enthusiasm for the Cause

Expressing your excitement about the role, especially in a non-profit, is a great way to show alignment with the organization's mission. By stating how you look forward to making a difference and contributing to a cause you care about, you're showing that you're not just looking for any job, but this job. This makes you look passionate, dedicated, and more likely to stay for the long term.

Aligning Personal and Organizational Values

When you show how the organization's mission resonates with your personal beliefs, it indicates a strong alignment of values. This is great because it's not just about doing a job for you; it's about contributing to a cause you deeply care about.

Demonstrating Skill Application

Sharing a story about how you've applied your skills in a real-world context gives me a clear picture of what you can do. It also shows that you understand the value of adapting your approach to meet diverse needs, which is crucial in the non-profit sector.

Expressing Genuine Excitement

Showing that you're genuinely excited about the specific work involved in the role is refreshing. It tells me that you're not just looking for any job; you're seeking an opportunity that aligns with your passion.

Understanding the Organization's Approach

When you express appreciation for the organization's approach to community support, it shows me that you've done your homework and understand what we're all about. It's a sign that you're looking to add to what we're already doing, rather than change our approach.

Show your passion for the non-profit mission

Explaining why the mission of the organization matters to you creates a strong start. It shows you're not just looking for any volunteer opportunity, but one that you are genuinely passionate about.

Highlight relevant volunteer experience

Talking about your previous volunteering experiences and the skills you gained from them, like organizational and communication skills, directly shows how you can contribute to the new role.

Stress the importance of teamwork and adaptability

Mentioning how previous experiences taught you about teamwork and adaptability in dynamic environments indicates that you’re a good team player, an essential trait for any volunteer.

Express willingness to learn and contribute

Showing eagerness to learn and contribute in various ways, including construction and outreach, demonstrates flexibility and a strong work ethic.

Convey gratitude and eagerness to impact

Ending your letter by thanking the organization and expressing a strong desire to contribute to its mission leaves a positive lasting impression.

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Share personal motivations for volunteering

Opening your cover letter with a personal tale of how volunteering values were instilled in you makes your application relatable and memorable, establishing a strong emotional connection right from the start.

Demonstrate a history of meaningful volunteer work

Illustrating your previous volunteer experiences and the direct impact of your actions, such as rebuilding homes after a disaster, showcases your commitment and the positive outcomes you've been a part of.

Match your skills with the organization's needs

Asserting that your skills in organization, leadership, and communication can contribute significantly to the organization's goals aligns your personal capabilities with their mission, making your application more compelling.

Emphasize your alignment with the organization's legacy

Expressing excitement about volunteering for an organization with a long history of humanitarian aid highlights your respect for their work and eagerness to be part of their ongoing mission.

Convey eagerness to contribute to the mission

Thanking the organization for considering your application and expressing a desire to learn more about how you can support their work shows initiative and a proactive approach to involvement.

Show your personal connection to nonprofit work

Sharing your own experiences with volunteer work can make your cover letter more engaging. It helps me understand why you are passionate about our cause, which is crucial for a nonprofit volunteer role.

Demonstrate leadership in volunteer coordination

Highlighting your success in managing volunteers shows you have the skills to motivate and organize a team. This is especially valuable in a nonprofit setting where teamwork and leadership can directly impact our mission's success.

Connect with the mission

Explaining why you are drawn to our specific mission makes your application stand out. It tells me that you have a genuine interest in what we do and that you've thought about how you can contribute to our goals.

End with a strong call to action

Concluding your letter by expressing eagerness to discuss your role in furthering our mission adds a proactive touch. It shows you're not just applying broadly but are specifically interested in contributing to our organization.

Non Profit Volunteer Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Highlight measurable achievements.

Having a 'proudest accomplishment' that's relevant to the job you're applying for is a brilliant way to showcase your capabilities. In this case, successfully raising a significant amount of money in a short period shows you've got what it takes to make a tangible impact in a non-profit's fundraising efforts. It's a clear, quantifiable achievement that stands out.

Non Profit Program Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Connecting personal experiences with job motivation.

Linking your motivation to join the team to a powerful, personal moment is a brilliant move. It creates a heartfelt connection and shows me that your desire to create change is personal and profound.

Highlighting Relationship Building Skills

Pointing out your ability to foster relationships with local communities is spot on. It's not just about running programs; it's about understanding the unique needs of the communities we serve. I value this skill in a candidate.

Aligning Experience with Organizational Focus

Highlighting your passion and experience in the areas we focus on, tells me you're not just qualified for the role; you're personally invested in our cause. That's someone I want on my team!

Admiring Innovation

Expressing admiration for how we tackle challenges shows me that you're someone who appreciates innovative thinking. This makes me believe you’d contribute new ideas and approaches to our programs, which is something I value in a candidate.

Community Outreach Volunteer Cover Letter Example

Share the moment you found your calling.

Starting with a personal story about what drew you to volunteer work makes your cover letter memorable and shows your genuine commitment to community service.

Demonstrate your ability to adapt and engage

Describing how you’ve adapted your approach to meet diverse needs showcases your problem-solving skills and ability to engage effectively with different people.

Communicate your excitement for the organization’s mission

Expressing enthusiasm for the organization's work and how it aligns with your values makes your application more compelling.

Showcase your collaborative spirit

Emphasizing your proactive and empathetic nature, along with your ability to build strong relationships, highlights your potential as a valuable team member.

Express appreciation and a desire to contribute

Ending with a note of thanks and a reiteration of your desire to make a meaningful difference strengthens your application and leaves a positive impression.

Inspiration leads to passion

Sharing a personal story, like how a family member's commitment to volunteering shaped your own passion, immediately draws in the reader and establishes a strong emotional connection. This approach shows that your interest in the community outreach volunteer role is deeply rooted and genuine.

Success with measurable impact

Detailing your experience with specific accomplishments, such as expanding a financial literacy program, demonstrates your ability to take initiative and produce results. Mentioning the expansion to other communities highlights your contribution to creating a broader impact.

Skills that build communities

Stating your talent in relationship-building, identifying needs, and devising solutions underlines your ability to address community challenges creatively and effectively. This signals to hiring managers that you're not just a doer but a thinker who can adapt and innovate.

Alignment with organizational mission

Expressing your attraction to the organization's comprehensive approach to community issues shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in their mission. This kind of alignment is crucial for a community outreach volunteer, indicating a higher likelihood of long-term commitment and success.

Eagerness to contribute

Ending your cover letter with a note of thanks and an expression of eagerness to learn more about contributing to the organization's work reinforces your genuine interest. It's a courteous and professional way to conclude, leaving a positive impression on the reader.

Express admiration for the organization

Starting your cover letter by sharing your long-standing respect for the organization sets a positive tone. It shows me that your interest is deep-rooted and extends beyond just finding a volunteer opportunity.

Highlight relevant event planning experience

Mentioning your success in organizing a community event that aligns with community outreach efforts is impressive. It provides concrete evidence of your ability to bring people together for a cause, something crucial for a community outreach volunteer.

Leverage your marketing skills

Pointing out how you can apply your professional skills to help further our mission demonstrates adaptability. It suggests you're thinking creatively about how your background can serve the organization in unique ways.

Show enthusiasm for collaboration

Ending your letter with a note of thanks and an offer to discuss your potential contributions reflects well on you. It presents you as courteous and eager to engage with our team on a deeper level.

Volunteer Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Show your long-term commitment to volunteering.

Starting your cover letter by highlighting a lifelong dedication to volunteering puts a spotlight on your genuine passion for the cause, setting a solid foundation for the rest of your letter.

Quantify your volunteer impact

By sharing specific outcomes of your volunteering efforts, like the amount of litter removed during a cleanup, you give a clear picture of the tangible impact you can create. This is compelling evidence of your effectiveness.

Connect with the organization's mission

Expressing your attraction to the organization's method of creating community change demonstrates that you're not just looking for any volunteer coordinator role but are specifically interested in what they do and why they do it.

Highlight relevant skills for managing volunteers

Detailing your organizational abilities and passion for community service reassures the hiring team of your capability to efficiently coordinate volunteer activities and align with the organization's goals.

Express enthusiasm for the role

Closing your letter with a statement of excitement about joining the team and contributing positively shows your eagerness and proactive attitude towards making a difference.

Personal connection to volunteer work

Starting with your long-standing involvement in volunteering establishes a solid foundation for your interest in the volunteer coordinator position. It shows that you're not just looking for a job but seeking to further a personal commitment to volunteerism.

Proven experience in volunteer management

Highlighting your track record in recruiting, training, and managing volunteers, especially with specific achievements like organizing a major clean-up event, showcases your capability and experience. This reassures hiring managers of your ability to handle the responsibilities of a volunteer coordinator effectively.

Creating positive volunteer experiences

Emphasizing your passion for ensuring volunteers feel valued and appreciated speaks volumes about your understanding of what makes a volunteer program successful. Recognizing the importance of positive experiences is key in retaining volunteers and building a strong volunteer base.

Commitment to the organization's mission

Your expressed interest in Habitat for Humanity's mission highlights your motivation and dedication to the cause. It's crucial for a volunteer coordinator to genuinely believe in the organization's goals, as this enthusiasm is infectious and can inspire volunteers.

Openness to discussion and collaboration

Ending your cover letter with an invitation to discuss how you can contribute to the mission shows that you're not just interested in the role but are also proactive and ready to collaborate. This sets the stage for a productive conversation during the interview process.

Event Planning Volunteer Cover Letter Example

Show your event planning passion.

Mentioning your passion for making a positive impact through event planning catches attention. It suggests your work will be driven by more than just duty.

Detail your event planning experience

Talking about your history with managing various aspects of event planning shows you have the skills needed. It's helpful for us to see your range of abilities.

Highlight your desire to make a difference

When you express excitement about using your skills for a cause, it shows you're likely to be motivated and committed. This is exactly what organizations look for in volunteers.

Express gratitude and eagerness to contribute

Closing with thanks and reinforcing your wish to help shows politeness and enthusiasm. It leaves a positive final impression on the reader.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

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Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

15 Volunteer Cover Letters That Will Get Hired (NOW)

Are you are looking to write a cover letter for Volunteer jobs that will impress recruiters and get you noticed by hiring managers? You need one to apply for a job, but you don’t know what to say.

Many prospective employees may wonder why it is so important to send a cover letter with their resume when job hunting. A cover letter not only provides your prospective employer with an introduction and the qualifications that you have, but also helps to express interest in the position and to stand out from other applicants. With just a few sentences, you can set yourself apart and show what makes you the best person for the job.

Here are 15 amazing Volunteer cover letters that are professionally written and will help you stand out and get that job!

Volunteer Cover Letters

Each cover letter is written with a different focus. Review all of them and pick the ones that apply to your situation. Take inspiration from multiple samples and combine them to craft your unique cover letter.

Volunteer Sample 1

I am writing to you in regards to the volunteer position for ###. I am currently a [job title] and [current company] and would be a perfect fit for this position because of my ### skills, ### skills, and ### skills. I have a strong interest in volunteering in this area because of my desire to help the communities that need it the most, which is what drew me into this line of work.

Please contact me at ###-#### if you would like more information about my background or availability. Thank you for your consideration!

Volunteer Sample 2

Dear Recruiter,

I am writing in regards to the opening for a volunteer position at ________. I am confident that my qualifications and experience would make an excellent addition to your organization. ________ is an organization which means a lot to me, more than any other. I have had the opportunity to work with many different aspects of the company including marketing, event planning, fundraising and more. With all of my years of experience in this field, I believe that it would be a great asset if you are looking for someone who can help expand their marketing efforts or assist with events on occasion.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Volunteer Sample 3

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am searching for opportunities to volunteer with your organization. I am a recent college graduate who is passionate about improving society. My previous experience includes tutoring preschoolers in reading, assisting at a children’s medical clinic, and leading an after-school program for low-income youth. I have also volunteered with the Red Cross on multiple occasions to help victims of natural disasters. I have the motivation and skills necessary to be an asset to your organization as a Volunteer position . If you are interested, please contact me at __________ or __________. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter!

Volunteer Sample 4

Dear Mr./Ms. ___________,

I am a high school student and I am interested in becoming a volunteer at your organization. I have always been very interested in the environment and would love to help out with any efforts you have in this area. I’ve attached my resume to this email for your consideration, and would love to hear back from you soon! Thank you very much for your time.

Volunteer Sample 5

As a dedicated volunteer for the past six years, I have been responsible for organizing and promoting over fifty fundraisers and events. I am a detail-oriented person who is able to juggle multiple tasks at once, which has made me very successful in this position. I’m looking forward to taking on new projects in order to expand my knowledge of different aspects of the nonprofit world.

Volunteer Sample 6

I am a volunteer with the American Red Cross and I have been working with them for five years. I enjoy helping people all over the world.

I would like to apply for a volunteer position at your organization, please contact me if you have any questions.

Volunteer Sample 7

Dear _________,

My name is _______ and I am interested in your Volunteering position for the summer. As an individual who has experience working with children, I would be a perfect fit for this position and will guarantee you that I will be a great contribution to your company. Please consider me as a candidate and feel free to contact me at __________ if you have any questions. Thank you!

Volunteer Sample 8

I am a recent graduate from the University of ________ and I am excited to start my career in a volunteer position. My goal is to make a difference in this world, and I am willing to take on any task for this opportunity. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Volunteer Sample 9

Thank you for considering me as a potential volunteer at your organization. My qualifications include an active, healthy lifestyle and a desire to help others. I have been volunteering for the past two years with my local animal shelter and am excited about the opportunity to extend my efforts to assist this worthwhile cause. I will be available from ____-____ hours on weekdays _____-_____hours on weekends, __ times per month.

Volunteer Sample 10

Dear Mrs. Doe,

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering at your animal shelter. I have a strong affinity for animals and would love the chance to get involved with this organization. I believe that my skillset would be a great asset to this organization and I am willing to do whatever is needed in order to help you and your team reach your goals. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and I hope that we can work together soon!

Volunteer Sample 11

I am an avid community service volunteer looking for the opportunity to help out at your organization. I really enjoy giving back to my community and want to be involved in this role.

I am a high school sophomore and I am looking for volunteer experiences outside of my school activities. I enjoy working with kids and would like to be a part of your program.

Volunteer Sample 12

Dear ________,

My name is ________ and I am inquiring about the volunteer position in your organization. I have volunteered for a number of different organizations in the past year and would love to help out at your organization. In addition to my many hours of volunteering experience, I have a degree from _____ which emphasizes interpersonal skills and team collaboration. I am confident that my skills will help your organization achieve its goals by providing guidance, support, supervision and mentoring for volunteers. If you are interested in learning more about me or my background please feel free to contact me at (your e-mail address) or (your phone number). Thank you for looking at my application!

Sincerely Yours,

Volunteer Sample 13

Hello, I am a sophomore at the University of Kentucky and I want to apply for the volunteer position you’re recruiting for. I have been involved in various organizations and activities on campus and in my community during my time here so far. I am particularly interested in your organization because it seems like a great way to get more involved and create meaningful change both on campus and around Lexington. My availability is not limited, so I can work with you to find a schedule that works best. My skills are diverse enough that they could be applicable for this position – specifically writing/editing, project management, event planning, video editing/production, graphic design (any medium), fundraising campaigns/projects (e-mail blasts specifically),

Volunteer Sample 14

I am a recent graduate from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and I am interested in volunteering at your organization. My interest in volunteerism stems from my belief that service to others is essential to living a fulfilling life. Volunteering is an excellent way for me to explore my skills and find out where my strengths lie. I hope that you will consider me as a potential volunteer and that we can meet soon so we can discuss this opportunity further.

Volunteer Sample 15

I am writing today to express my interest in the Volunteer Coordinator position.

I’ve always wanted to make a difference in the world by impacting others, and I believe this is an excellent opportunity for me to do that. As I’m sure you know, volunteers are critical to all of your organization’s activities; there are many opportunities for me to put my skills and experience into practice if given the chance. If you’re looking for someone with exceptional interpersonal skills, then I’m your girl!

Recruiters and hiring managers receive hundreds of applications for each job opening.

Use the above professionally written Volunteer cover letter samples to learn how to write a cover letter that will catch their attention and customize it for your specific situation.

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5 Easy-to-Use Online Resume Tools to Make Better CVs and Land Jobs

T he first step to landing your dream job is to make a resume that will impress any recruiter. From open-source and privacy-friendly online CV makers to AI-assisted cover letters, these free tools make it easier than ever to create a resume that will stand out from the crowd.

1. OpenResume (Web): Open Source, 100% Free and Ad-Free, Privacy-Friendly

A common issue with several online resume builders is that even though they tout they are free, there are several hidden clauses. They'll have ads, or ask you to sign up to store your personal and professional information on their servers or ask for a fee to remove watermarks when downloading the final PDF. OpenResume is an attempt to solve all those issues by building an open-source, completely free, and ad-free online resume builder which also protects your privacy.

OpenResume guides first-time resume makers to create a new CV with a template that relies on best standards and practices. Simply fill the data in the boxes as asked, and you'll see the resume updating in real-time in the preview. You can tweak colors, fonts, and paper size at any time.

The app works in your browser cache, so you won't be sending any of this data to the internet, keeping your information private and safe. OpenResume also includes a parser to check how ATS systems will read your CV, letting you then write an ATS-friendly resume .

2. Leet Resumes (Web): AI Analyzes and Upgrades Your Current Resume

After using writers to create thousands of free resumes for job applicants, Leet Resumes has trained an AI to analyze those resumes and use those learnings to make changes to your existing resume. It's completely free too.

Start by uploading your current resume as a PDF or DOC file. Leet Resumes will then take you through a series of steps to spruce up the CV. It will determine what your next job positions could be, suggest words and skills to add to your current resume, and coax information from you through pointed questions. Once you finish the questionnaire, Leet Resumes will create a new CV for you with all this information.

You can download the resume for free and then even tweak it if you want to make changes. Leet Resumes follows only one resume template design, but it's a standard recommended by founder Marc Cenedella, an expert in recruiting who has also written multiple books on how to write winning resumes.

3. Chat Career (Web): AI-Crafted Resume Tailored for Job Postings

One of the essential tips for a winning resume is to tweak it slightly for each job that you're applying for. It shows you have read the job posting and understood the requirements. Chat Career uses AI to help you make such tailored resumes.

When you start the app, you'll need to add the job description from the company's posting. Then, you can either upload your current CV, give it access to your LinkedIn bio, or craft a new resume from scratch. Chat Career will then review whether you are fit for the job. The AI asks questions in a chat window, much like using ChatGPT. Answer questions in plain English, and provide as many details as you want.

It will brainstorm with you about how you should highlight your experience and qualifications and even suggests how to add missing elements for maximum job fit. Once the process is done, you'll get a new resume, ready to send to this job. And if you save your profile, you can then use Chat Career to quickly generate tailored resumes for any future job postings.

4. CoverLetterGPT (Web): Generate Cover Letters Quickly With ChatGPT

Much like tailoring your CV for the job description, it's good practice to write a cover letter that addresses the hiring manager directly. The key to writing a good cover letter is to succinctly explain why you are the right fit for the job, how your resume will reflect that, and to display your personality through your words. A lot of people struggle with it, but the whole process is much smoother when AI assists you.

As the name suggests, CoverLetterGPT will help you write a cover letter using ChatGPT without needing to learn ChatGPT prompts or even create an OpenAI account. Add the job title, company, job description, and upload your current CV. Once CoverLetterGPT analyzes this input, it'll spit out a cover letter in a few seconds that you can copy-paste into a document.

CoverLetterGPT also lets you easily prompt ChatGPT to change any sentence or paragraph in the cover letter it has generated. Highlight the text, and you'll get an option to ask ChatGPT to make it more concise, detailed, professional, or informal. You can also ask for a whimsical sign-off to add a little fun to your letter.

5. SwiftCV (Web): Free, Beautiful Personal Online Resume Web Page

Can you really afford to apply for a job in the 2020s without an online CV? And it needs to look a little better than a basic web page where you've uploaded your resume as a PDF. SwiftCV makes it easy for anyone with no knowledge of creating websites to make a beautiful online resume that you can share with recruiters.

Create an account, and you can start adding details in different sections, as prompted by SwiftCV. You can also import your LinkedIn profile to quickly populate your online CV. The app makes good use of company logos, font colors, sizes, and other icons to make a resume that looks modern and professional. It also follows a responsive design, so your CV can be read on a computer or phone.

In the end, you'll get an online CV with a custom URL for you. SwiftCV also shows you analytics data of people who viewed your profile, so you can track who is interested. The free version has a few limitations (such as the downloadable PDF and website having SwiftCV branding), but most job-seekers probably don't need to pay for the premium version.

Don't Rely on AI Alone

It's amazing how AI is helping users to create better resumes and CVs, especially for those who don't have senior professionals to guide them through the process. But you do run the risk of not standing out from the crowd if you over-rely on AI. To add a personal touch, use the AI suggestions as a starting block, and edit it to infuse your personality into the resume or cover letter.