cover letter template volunteering

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
• Stay at Home Mom cover letter example
• 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

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

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• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Writing Effective Volunteer Cover Letters (With Sample)

As a college instructor and communication expert with extensive nonfiction and educational writing experience, Mary shares tips and advice related to a wide variety of topics.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Nonprofit organizations rely on the generosity of volunteers. If you'd like to donate your time and talents to a cause you believe in, consider sending a letter requesting to serve as a volunteer. Cover letters for volunteer roles are similar to job application cover letters, with a few adjustments. Use the sample volunteer application letter provided here as a starting point to craft an effective letter of your own.

Sample Volunteer Cover Letter Template

To access the volunteer application letter template, simply click the image below. The letter will open as a PDF file in a separate tab or window (depending on your computer's settings). Use this guide to printables if you need help with the document. Click anywhere in the document to change the text to meet your needs. Once you have made changes, save and/or print the document.

• Examples of Successful Grant Proposals to Help You Secure Funding
• Sample Invitation Letters for Special Events to Get You Started
• Effective Thanksgiving Donation Letters for Any Organization

You may also want to view a few other cover letter examples before finalizing your volunteer opportunity request letter.

Best Practices for Volunteer Application Letters

Make your letter stand out by following best practices for writing a great cover letter. Key tips for writing this type of business letter include:

• Address the letter to a specific contact person rather than a general "to whom it may concern" greeting. (Call the organization and ask who the contact should be.)
• Use a standard business letter format.
• Ensure the tone of the letter is appropriate for professional communication.
• Make it clear that you are requesting volunteer work, not applying for a paid position.
• Explain why you're interested in volunteering with this particular organization.
• State what kind of volunteer work you would like to do for the group.
• Highlight what qualifies you to do this kind of work.
• Including your resume or a list of skills to emphasize your qualifications.
• Ask how to proceed with your efforts to become a volunteer.
• Include your telephone number and email address.
• End the letter with an appropriate business letter closing .
• Proofread closely, ensuring the letter is well-written and free from grammatical errors.
• Keep track of the volunteer application letters you send and follow-up with a phone call or email within a few weeks if you don't get a response.

Sending a Letter Requesting Volunteer Work

You can submit a printed volunteer cover letter via mail or hand-deliver it to the organization's office. You can also email your cover letter if you have the contact person's email address, which may be availalbe on the organization's website. If using email, you can send the PDF as an attachment or copy the text into the body of an email. Some organizations have electronic communication policies prohibiting workers from opening attachments sent by unknown sources, so it's possible that the recipient is more likely to read your message without at attachment. Be sure to use a subject line indicating that the message contains a volunteer opportunity request.

Letter Templates & Example

Top Cover Letter Template for Volunteer Work to Make You Stand Out

Volunteering is one of the most rewarding activities you can do, both for yourself and for your community. It’s an excellent way to help others, make new friends, and learn new skills. And if you’re applying for a volunteer position, it’s essential to have a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm and skills.

That’s where a cover letter template for volunteer work comes in handy. With a well-crafted template, you can create a professional-looking cover letter that highlights your experience and suitability for the role. The best part? You can find plenty of examples online and edit them to fit your needs.

Whether you’re applying to work at a local food bank or a nonprofit organization, a cover letter is an opportunity to show your passion and commitment to helping others. By using a template, you can focus on tailoring your message to the organization and the role, rather than struggling to come up with the right words.

So, if you’re ready to apply for a volunteer position and want to make a great first impression, consider using a cover letter template for volunteer work. It’s a simple and effective way to showcase your skills and make a positive impact on those in need.

The Best Structure for a Cover Letter Template for Volunteer Work

If you’re looking to volunteer your time and skills for a particular cause or organization, writing a compelling cover letter is crucial. A well-written cover letter can grab the attention of potential volunteers and show them that you’re the right fit for the job.

Here’s how to structure your cover letter template for volunteer work:

First paragraph Start with a strong opening sentence that expresses your interest in volunteering. Briefly introduce yourself and why you’re interested in applying for the volunteer position. Mention the organization you’re applying to, and why you believe your skills and experiences match the organization’s needs.

Second paragraph In this section, highlight your relevant skills and experiences. This is your chance to demonstrate why you’re the right fit for the position. If you have volunteered before, mention your previous experience and how it has prepared you for this opportunity. If you don’t have any volunteer experience, talk about your relevant work experience or any skills that you have that would make you a good fit.

Third paragraph In this section, explain why the organization will benefit from having you as a volunteer. Talk about how your skills and experiences can help the organization achieve its mission. If you’ve done your research on the organization, you can mention any current projects or initiatives that you’re particularly interested in working on.

Fourth paragraph Close your cover letter by stating your availability and willingness to commit to the volunteer position. Mention if you’re available to start right away or if there is a specific time frame that you’re available. Finally, thank the organization for considering your application and invite them to contact you if they have any further questions.

Remember, your cover letter should be concise and to-the-point, while still conveying your enthusiasm for the position. Use a friendly but professional tone throughout, and proofread your letter carefully before submitting it. With a well-written cover letter, you’re sure to attract the attention of potential volunteer organizations and make a difference in your community.

7 Volunteer Cover Letter Templates

Template 1 – general volunteer work.

Dear [Organization Name],

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering with your organization. I am passionate about making a positive difference in my community, and I appreciate the work that your organization is doing to bring about change.

As a volunteer, I would bring my enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication to your cause. I have experience working with a variety of individuals, and I am comfortable interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds. I am also skilled in project management and would be happy to help with any event planning or coordination that your organization requires.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Name]

Template 2 – Volunteer work for career experience

I am writing to apply for a volunteer position with your organization. I am currently seeking career experience in [field], and I believe that volunteering with your organization would provide me with valuable skills and knowledge that would be useful in my career.

I have [relevant skills or experience], and I am eager to learn more about [specific area of interest]. By volunteering with your organization, I would have the opportunity to work alongside professionals in the field and gain hands-on experience that would be beneficial to my career goals.

Template 3 – Volunteer work for personal growth

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering with your organization. I am passionate about [cause or issue], and I believe that volunteering would not only allow me to make a positive impact in my community but also help me to grow as an individual.

I am particularly interested in [specific volunteering opportunity or project], as it aligns with my personal values and goals. By volunteering, I would have the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, and contribute to a cause that I care about deeply.

Template 4 – Volunteer work for social connections

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering with your organization. I believe that volunteering is not only a great way to give back to my community but also an opportunity to meet new people and form meaningful social connections.

I am particularly interested in [specific area of volunteering], as I believe that it would allow me to work alongside like-minded individuals who share my passion for [cause or issue]. By volunteering with your organization, I would have the opportunity to make new friends and build a sense of community around a shared goal.

Template 5 – Volunteer work for skills development

I am writing to apply for a volunteer position with your organization. I am interested in [cause or issue], and I believe that volunteering would allow me to develop new skills and gain valuable experience.

I have [relevant skills or experience], and I am eager to learn more about [specific area of interest]. By volunteering with your organization, I would have the opportunity to work alongside professionals in the field and gain hands-on experience that would be beneficial to my personal and professional growth.

Template 6 – Volunteer work for seniors

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering with your organization. I have always had a great deal of respect and appreciation for seniors, and I believe that volunteering with your organization would be a wonderful way for me to show my support for this important population.

I have [relevant skills or experience], and I would be happy to help with any tasks or activities that your organization requires. Whether it be providing companionship, running errands, or leading recreational activities, I am excited about the opportunity to work with seniors and make a positive impact in their lives.

Template 7 – Volunteer work for animal welfare

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering with your organization. I am passionate about animal welfare and believe that volunteering would allow me to make a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.

I have [relevant skills or experience], and I would be happy to help with any tasks or activities that your organization requires. Whether it be providing care for animals in a shelter, assisting with adoption events, or raising awareness about animal welfare issues, I am excited about the opportunity to work with your organization and make a difference in the lives of animals.

Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter for Volunteer Work

Volunteering is an excellent way to gain new skills, make connections, and give back to your community. When applying for a volunteer position, it’s important to craft an effective cover letter that highlights your experience and demonstrates your enthusiasm for the cause. Here are some related tips:

1. Research the Organization: Take some time to learn about the nonprofit organization you are applying to. Look for their mission statement and values and tailor your cover letter accordingly. Show that you understand the organization’s goals and how your skills align with their mission.

2. Highlight Your Skills and Experience: When writing your cover letter, be sure to emphasize your relevant skills and experience related to the volunteer position. Use specific examples of how you have used these skills in the past, and explain how you can apply them to the role you are applying for.

3. Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion and enthusiasm for the cause shine through in your cover letter. Explain why you are interested in the volunteer role and how it relates to your personal goals and values. Use anecdotes or personal stories to illustrate your dedication to the cause.

4. Keep it Concise: While it’s important to provide enough detail in your cover letter, be mindful of keeping it concise. Stick to the main points and highlight the most important information. A cover letter that is too long or rambling can be off-putting to the reader.

5. Edit and Proofread: Before submitting your cover letter, be sure to edit and proofread it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure that the tone and content are appropriate for the position. Consider having a friend or mentor review it as well.

By following these tips, you can craft a cover letter that showcases your skills and experience, while demonstrating your passion for the volunteer role. Remember, a well-written and thoughtful cover letter can make all the difference in landing the position you are after!

FAQs about Cover Letter Template for Volunteer Work What is a cover letter template for volunteer work?

A cover letter template for volunteer work is a pre-designed document that helps individuals seeking volunteer opportunities create a professional and impressive cover letter in a short time.

Why do I need a cover letter template for volunteer work?

A cover letter is the first impression that a potential volunteer opportunity organization will have of you. Since competition to secure volunteer positions is high, using a cover letter template can help you stand out as a candidate.

What should be included in a cover letter template for volunteer work?

Your cover letter template for volunteer work should include an introduction, a section highlighting your relevant experience and skills, information on why you would like to volunteer, and a closing paragraph expressing your willingness to discuss opportunities further.

Can a cover letter template for volunteer work be customized?

Yes, a cover letter template for volunteer work can be customized to fit the specific needs and requirements of the volunteer roles for which you are applying.

Are cover letter templates for volunteer work free or paid?

There are both free and paid cover letter templates available for volunteer work. Paid templates may offer additional features, such as more customization options or professional design elements.

Where can I find a cover letter template for volunteer work?

You can find cover letter templates for volunteer work online through career resources websites, job search platforms, or by searching through a search engine. These templates may also be available through volunteering organizations or communities.

Is it better to use a cover letter template or write a cover letter from scratch?

Using a cover letter template for volunteer work is helpful for those who are new to cover letter writing, as they provide a guideline on how to organize and present information. However, the best option depends on individual preference and the time and resources available.

Thank You for Reading!

I hope this cover letter template for volunteer work has been helpful in your pursuits to give back to your community. Remember, always keep your audience in mind when writing a cover letter; make sure to highlight your passion and how it aligns with the goals of the organization you wish to volunteer for. And don’t forget to tailor your letter to the specific opportunity you’re applying for! Good luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Be sure to check back for more tips and tricks on volunteering!

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Community Volunteer Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

How to write a captivating community volunteer resume?

In pursuit of a community volunteer position, you are about to offer essential help to people in need, connect with the community, and definitely acquire new skills you may not be able to learn in any other job.

Whether you want to participate in an environmental or humanitarian activity, there might be a high volume of volunteers applying for the same job. And let’s be honest, there are only as many vacancies as the organization’s resources allow.

That’s why you need to pay extra attention to how you present your experience and skills necessary for carrying out this job.

Keep on reading and learn how to craft a staggering community volunteer resume so that you can start doing some good.

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

1. Spruce up your community volunteer resume format

Volunteering can be about many things — meeting new people, gaining a sense of purpose, building community or learning new skills, among other aspects. It even makes you more employable.

In order to pave the way for these opportunities, you will first need to make your resume appealing to a hiring manager, and you will certainly want to start with a great resume format.

Whether you opt for a more creative template or a traditional one, there are certain formatting rules you can’t ignore if you want to make the right impression.

• Opt for a two-column layout, and distribute individual resume sections in a balanced way whilst keeping your page count low.
• Contact Details
• Professional Profile
• Work Experience
• Soft and Hard Skills
• Additional sections such as Certifications, Projects, Courses, Language Skills, Interests, etc.
• Avoid stylish fonts that may distract one from the content, and use a classic typeface, such as Cambria, Garamond or Calibri.
• Employ white space between individual segments.
• Make your headings bigger.

Choose your preferred template and make your resume shine.

Find out your resume score!

2. Write an awe-inspiring professional summary for your community volunteer CV

A great professional summary will speak loudly about what you have to offer to the organization in question. These 3-5 lines should clearly reflect that you are the right candidate for the community volunteer position.

How to make it happen?

• Use impactful language.
• State how many years of experience you’ve had in a relevant position.
• Highlight your greatest accomplishments, linking them with keywords from the job posting.
• Present your greatest skills for volunteering.  

Underperforming community volunteer professional summary example

Community Volunteer engaging in various volunteering activities. Made donations on a continual basis. Currently seeking a position of a Community Volunteer in a non-profit organization to utilize my volunteering skills.

Corrected community volunteer professional summary example

Enthusiastic and dependable Community Volunteer with 3+ years of experience engaging in various volunteering activities including youth education, building shelters, assisting elderly people through community development programs. Made donations to the Hearts & Minds program on a continual basis. Currently seeking a position of a Community Volunteer in a reputed non-profit organization to utilize my exceptional commitment, communication and compassion skills.

3. Put the right skills on your community volunteer resume

A specific volunteering activity will require a particular set of soft and hard skills . That’s why it is very important that you read the job posting in question carefully.

Look for the skills needed for the position. Write down the competencies that you possess, and compare them with the list from the job ad.

Any matching skills? Great! These should be featured right at the top of your list.

The following soft and hard skills may help you compile an effective skill-set for your community volunteer resume.  

The best soft skills for community volunteering to put on your CV

• Outstanding communication
• Problem solving
• Decision making
• Open-mindedness
• Social perceptiveness
• Organizational skills
• Strong work ethic
• Time management
• Flexibility

Effective hard skills for your community volunteer resume

• Marketing skills
• Administrative skills
• Volunteer management tool: VolunteerHub
• MS Office Suite
• Adobe Photoshop

4. The best way to list your community volunteer work experience

When it comes to describing your volunteer work history , make sure you provide a relevant and effective account of your most recent roles.

In order to jump ahead of other candidates, you may want to pay extra attention to the following tips:

• Provide a reverse-chronological account of your work experiences, starting with the most recent position.
• Focus on your achievements rather than on daily duties and responsibilities.
• Quantify your accomplishments whenever it applies. 
• Customize your work experience section to a specific job posting. Remember that your past accomplishments should be relevant to the position you are applying for.  

Community volunteer work experience section example

Hearts & Minds, Austin, Texas Community Volunteer 2017 – 2021

• Developed and managed relationships with the local authorities to create an understanding of their role and position in helping young people to gain experience of the workplace.
• Mentored a team of 12 volunteers on time management and prioritizing.
• Skillfully planned and delivered 10+ workshops with local government teams to catalyze the use of the company's services.
• Coordinated communications to the business leader community.
• Helped to deliver marketing initiatives defined with the Marketing team to keep the stakeholder groups engaged and growing.

5. Include academic achievements in your education section

Listing education might seem like a walk in the park — your college, degree, years in school, done.

However, what if you could make it more appealing by adding volunteering activities, academic achievements, areas of interest or relevant coursework? You’d certainly go for it.  

Here’s how to effectively list education in your community volunteer resume

Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany Bachelor of Science in Sociology 2011-2014

• Volunteering activities: Community centers (Arts and music), Sports (Youth groups)
• The 2010 Academic Excellence Award winner
• Areas of interest: Social Change, Sociology of Development

6. Add suitable additional sections to your community volunteer CV

Teamwork, communication, project planning or problem solving are just a few of the competencies you need to equip yourself with in order to fulfill your daily responsibilities as a community volunteer.

All these (and more) skills can be reflected in your additional activities, such as accomplishments, language skills or interests.

Beef up your resume with the right extra segments:

• Volunteering activities
• Conferences
• Certifications
• Computer science projects

Accomplishments

• Language Skills  

Here’s how to list additional sections in your resume

• Regional Volunteer of the Month, Reach Volunteering, May 2019

Language Skills

• English — Fluent, TOEFL Certificate
• Italian — B2 Certificate
• German — A2 Certificate

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.

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• Volunteer Work Experience Letter Sample From Companies, Ngos, Social Organizations

Volunteering is not only a remarkable way to give back to the community but also an opportunity to gain valuable experience and contribute to meaningful causes. Organizations, whether companies, NGOs, social groups, or community services, often recognize the dedicated efforts of their volunteers through work experience letters. These letters serve as a testament to a volunteer's commitment, skills, and positive impact on the organization's goals.To assist you in crafting work experience letters for your volunteers, we have prepared four templates tailored for different types of organizations. Each template underscores the volunteer's contributions, highlights their qualities, and acknowledges their role in furthering the organization's mission. These templates can be easily customized to include specific details about the volunteer's tenure, their activities, and the unique impact they had.By utilizing these templates, you can express your organization's appreciation for the volunteer's dedication and professionalism while offering them a formal record of their valuable experience. Work experience letters can also serve as references for the volunteers, enhancing their future opportunities and showcasing their commitment to making a positive change.Feel free to personalize these templates to reflect your organization's style and voice. With these templates, you can acknowledge and celebrate the immense value that volunteers bring to your organization.

Template Volunteer Work Experience Letter - Company

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Organization's Name] [Organization's Address] [City, State, ZIP]

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this letter to confirm that [Your Name] volunteered at [Organization's Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During this period, [Your Name] exhibited a strong commitment to our projects and an exceptional willingness to contribute.

[Your Name] actively participated in [brief description of volunteer activities], consistently demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and a positive attitude. [He/She] effectively collaborated with our team, offering valuable insights and assistance in achieving our organizational goals.

[Your Name]'s dedication and enthusiasm greatly enhanced the success of our initiatives. [He/She] has proven to be a reliable and engaged volunteer, showcasing exceptional interpersonal skills and adaptability.

We sincerely appreciate [Your Name]'s efforts and contributions to our organization. [His/Her] commitment to making a positive impact is commendable, and we would be pleased to welcome [him/her] back should [he/she] decide to volunteer with us again in the future.

[Name] [Title] [Organization's Name] [Contact Information]

Template Volunteer Work Experience Letter - NGO

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing this letter to certify that [Your Name] volunteered with [Organization's Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. [His/Her] contribution during this period has been truly remarkable.

[Your Name] actively engaged in various [NGO's focus areas] initiatives, dedicating [his/her] time, skills, and passion to making a meaningful difference. [He/She] demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment, consistently going above and beyond what was required.

[Your Name]'s involvement was instrumental in [mention specific achievements or projects], highlighting [his/her] ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and navigate complex challenges with poise.

We are profoundly grateful for [Your Name]'s dedication to our cause and [his/her] unwavering commitment to driving positive change in our community. We wholeheartedly endorse [him/her] as a capable and passionate volunteer.

Thank you for your continued support in empowering individuals like [Your Name] to contribute to our shared mission.

Warm regards,

Template Volunteer Work Experience Letter - Social Organization

I am writing this letter to confirm that [Your Name] volunteered at [Organization's Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. [His/Her] dedication and enthusiasm during [his/her] time with us were truly exceptional.

[Your Name] was actively involved in [brief description of volunteer activities], consistently demonstrating [his/her] strong commitment to our organization's goals. [He/She] collaborated effectively with our team members, offering valuable insights and contributing to our initiatives' success.

[Your Name]'s excellent communication skills, adaptability, and willingness to take on new challenges made [him/her] a valuable asset to our organization. [His/Her] positive attitude and dedication greatly enriched our team dynamics.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to [Your Name] for [his/her] remarkable contributions. [He/She] exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that drives our organization's mission. We would gladly welcome [him/her] back should [he/she] choose to volunteer with us again.

Best regards,

Template Volunteer Work Experience Letter - Community Service

This letter is to verify that [Your Name] volunteered at [Organization's Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. [His/Her] active involvement during this period had a positive impact on our community.

[Your Name] participated in [brief description of volunteer activities], demonstrating [his/her] dedication to giving back to the community. [He/She] exhibited exceptional teamwork, leadership, and a genuine concern for the welfare of others.

[Your Name]'s commitment was evident in [specific achievements or projects], where [he/she] contributed innovative ideas and a strong work ethic. [His/Her] positive demeanor and willingness to contribute beyond expectations set an inspiring example for fellow volunteers.

We express our sincere gratitude for [Your Name]'s meaningful contributions. [He/She] exemplifies the core values of our organization and has left a lasting impact on those [he/she] served.

Thank you for your continued support in fostering a spirit of volunteerism and community engagement.

We are delighted to extend our professional proofreading and writing services to cater to all your business and professional requirements, absolutely free of charge at Englishtemplates.com . Should you need any email, letter, or application templates, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at englishtemplates.com. Kindly leave a comment stating your request, and we will ensure to provide the necessary template at the earliest.

Posts in this Series

• Experience Letter For Accounts Manager
• Experience Letter For Office Assistant Free Download
• Experience Letter For Receptionist Free Sample
• Experience Letter For Sales Executive And Other Sales Positions
• Experience/Recommendation Letter For Teacher From School
• Job Experience Letter For Marketing Executive

Volunteer CV example

Volunteering is a great way to give back, boost your skills, meet new people and broaden your horizons.

But to land a rewarding role, you’re going to need a compelling CV.

Your volunteer CV should highlight your enthusiasm, compassionate nature and relevant skill-set, all whilst being well-presented.

To help you land those job interviews, I’ve created this step-by-step writing guide, along with an example volunteer CV.

Guide contents

• Structuring and formatting your CV
• Writing your CV profile
• Detailing work experience
• Your education
• Skills required for your volunteer CV

CV templates 

Before you begin writing your own CV , take a look at the CV example above.

It should give you a good idea of how to display your skills and experience in a professional and visually-pleasing way.

Volunteer CV structure & format

The structure and format of your CV are equally as important as what you write on it.

Charities are busy places and often have limited resources, so they won’t have much spare time to read your CV.

So, to get in their good books, you need to make it as easy for them as possible to read and navigate through your application.

Formatting Tips

• As an unwritten rule, your CV shouldn’t be longer than 2 pages of A4 . Try to keep everything as short and succinct as you can.
• It’s generally best to keep the design of your CV simple. Stick to a plain colour scheme, such as black text on a white background, and use the same font throughout.
• Avoid long paragraphs and unbroken chunks of text. Break up your information by using plenty of bullet points, lists and columns.
• Ensure your CV is easy to navigate by clearly dividing the individual CV sections – using bold text for headings is a good way to do this.
• Send your CV off as a word document, attached to an email. Paste your cover letter into the body of the email.

Structuring your CV

Organise your information into the following CV sections:

• Contact details – Always start with your basic contact details.
• Profile – A short, punchy paragraph which sums up your skills, experience and other selling points.
• Work experience / Career history – List your volunteer and work experience, starting with your most recent role.
• Education –  Note down any qualifications, whether they’re academic or vocational.
• Interest and hobbies – An optional section, which you can use to discuss hobbies that display relevant skills.

We’ll go through each of these sections in more detail, so you know exactly what you need to  include in your CV.

CV Contact Details

If a charity wants to invite you in for an interview, they’ll need an easy way to contact you.

So, always start your CV with your basic contact details:

• Phone number  – Opt for a mobile phone that you take with you on-the-go.
• Email address  – Use a professional-sounding email address, with no nicknames – make a new one if you need to.
• Location – You don’t need to include your full address – your town or city will do.

Volunteer CV Profile

Next, you need to write a short, compelling and enthusiastic CV profile .

You should think of this as an introduction, which summarises why you’d make a great volunteer for the organisation you’re applying for.

Talk about any relevant experience you have, your skills, your qualifications and/or relevant training and why you’d like to help the charity.

As charity recruiters are often short on time, this might be all they read before deciding if you’d suit the role – so you really need to grab their attention!

Tips to consider when creating your profile:

• CV profiles should be succinct, with a length of around 5-10 lines. This gives just enough detail to show your suitability, whilst leaving the reader keen to find out more about you.
• Tailor your profile to the charity and role you’re applying to. Take a look over the role description to see what skills or personal attributes the organisation are looking for. Try to include these in your profile and throughout your CV.
• I’d normally recommend leaving motives and objectives for your cover letter, but volunteer roles are an exception. In your profile, briefly mention why you’d like to work for the charity, why you care about their cause and how you think you could help.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

What to include in your volunteer CV profile?

• Experience – If you have any previous volunteering experience, make sure to mention it. You can also mention non-volunteer work experience, especially if you can draw upon transferable skills which could be a benefit to the role you’re applying for.
• Skills or knowledge  – What skills are listed in the role description? If you can match them, include them in your profile. Otherwise, do some volunteer role research and figure out what skills charities are looking for.
• Qualifications  – There are normally no entry requirements for volunteer roles, but that’s not to say they won’t play to your advantage! Mention your highest qualifications, whether that’s a degree, A-Levels or GCSEs. If you’ve completed any fundraising or charity-related courses/training, make sure to highlight them, too.
• Motives  – Charities are looking for passionate and motivated team members, so briefly mention why you care about their cause and how you could help them reach their goals.
• Achievements –  Have you raised money for a charity, volunteered in an emergency situation or helped towards fundraising initiatives? Share your best charity results, achievements and accomplishments to prove to recruiters that you’re serious about giving back.

Core skills section

To add even more impact, create a bullet-pointed list of your key skills , to sit right underneath your CV profile.

As you did with your profile, try to match the skills listed in role requirements as closely as possible.

This will help busy charity recruiters to quickly and easily see what you could bring to the team.

Quick tip: Many charities have web pages dedicated to their volunteer roles, such as this one for  shop volunteers at Cancer Research . You might be able to find additional information, including their desired volunteer skills and characteristics, to include in your profile and core skills section.

Work experience/Career history

Starting with your most recent (or current) role/volunteer role, begin listing your work experience.

If you work in paid roles alongside volunteering , you might want to split your experience section up into a ‘volunteering experience’ and a ‘career history’ section.

However, charities will be most interested in your volunteering experience, so it’s best to prioritise space for them.

Never volunteered or worked for a charity before? That’s okay – just list your other work experience, making sure to highlight any transferable skills that could benefit you in the role you’re applying for.

Structuring your roles

Your CV needs to be easy to navigate, but your work experience section can easily become overwhelming.

Start with a summary of your role, the type of organisation you worked for and who you reported to.

“Volunteering for a busy high-street charity shop, I reported to the shop manager and was responsible for processing sales and providing excellent customer care to customers.”

Key responsibilities

Next, create a bullet-pointed list of your day-to-day duties and responsibilities.

• Ensuring the shop floor was kept in immaculate condition.
• Manning the till and processing cash and card transactions.
• Setting up seasonal window and promotional displays to maximise sales.

Key achievements

Round up the role description by sharing 1-3 stand out results, accomplishments or achievements .

• Organised a local charity event single-handedly, which raised over £5,000.
• Exceeded sales targets for 6-months running.
• Regularly volunteered to carry out street fundraising, which raised an average of £3,000 per month.

Next up is your education section. It’s here that you’ll discuss your qualifications and any relevant training or courses you’ve completed.

Don’t worry if you don’t have many qualifications. There’s no barrier to entry for volunteer roles – it’s the mindset that matters!

Just list your highest qualifications, along with the dates of study – for example, ‘ 10 GCSEs A-D’.

If have any vocational qualifications, such as First Aid training , make sure to include them, too.

Quick tip: If you’re volunteering for a skill-specific role as a graduate or professional, include your sector-specific qualifications here. For example, if you’re a marketing graduate volunteering to run a charity’s social media accounts, list your degree and discuss your social media module in detail.

Interests and hobbies

This CV section is completely optional, but it can be handy for volunteer roles.

If you have any interests or hobbies which are related to the role you’re applying for, then it’s well worth discussing them. For example, if you’re applying to volunteer at an animal shelter and have a blog about animals, it makes sense to note this on your CV, as it shows your passion for the sector.

Additionally, if you’re part of a sports team, play a musical instrument, are learning a language or have another creative pursuit, adding your hobby to your CV will show charities that you’re a committed, dedicated and driven individual.

However, generic hobbies like  ‘listening to music’  or  ‘going out with friends’ don’t say anything about you and should be left off your CV.

Essential skills and characteristics for your volunteer CV

As volunteer roles vary so widely, so do the skills that are required for the role. However, the following soft skills and characteristics a must for any charity CV:

Passion for the cause – Supporting the charity in question and having a clear passion for the cause.

Good communication  – Communicating with colleagues, customers and those needing support in a friendly, calm, reassuring and empathetic manner.

Teamwork  – Working well as part of a team.

Empathy  – Showing empathy, patience, consideration and a caring nature.

Fundraising  – Contributing to or building upon fundraising initiatives and strategies.

Writing your volunteer CV

Charities are always looking for passionate, kind-natured and driven individuals to volunteer to help their mission.

If you follow my CV guide, you’ll be able to create a CV that proves you have all these qualities and more.

Make sure to double-check your spelling and grammar before sending off your application.

Best of luck with your job search!

Volunteer Letter Template in Google Docs

Draft Letters for Volunteers and Volunteer Work Efficiently Using Google Docs Editable Volunteer Letter Templates from Template.net! Download Free Templates for Volunteer Appreciation Letter, Volunteer Recommendation Letter, Volunteer Application and Cover Letter, and Letter Templates for Hospital, School, and Other Volunteer Work. Check Out More Docs Templates and Other Formats. Subscribe and Download Now!;

• Google Docs
• Volunteer Agreement
• Volunteer Certificate
• Volunteer Flyer
• Volunteer Letter
• Volunteer Thank You Letter

Volunteering is the type of job in that one offers their time, services, and hard work for free. And while others wonder why there are people who opt to work without pay, there are several reasons why some do the job without question. It can be because of their passion, for school requirements or activities, for community service, and for charity organizations. If you want to apply as a volunteer or rather send someone a thank you for their time, all you need to do is send a Personal Letter . So you won't have to write from scratch anymore if that's what you are worried about, we highly suggest you get a template.

Our Volunteer Letter Templates in Google Docs are perfect for any volunteer-related correspondence you want to create. The contents of our letters are very distinct from one another to cater to different purposes such as confirmation of the assignment, appreciation for volunteer workers, personal recommendation, and verification of duties. All of our templates are very convenient to use, with their user-friendly layout that even beginners can navigate with ease. Modify your letters with our editor tool and include a Printable Letterhead to make your letter look more professional and official. 

If you want to see more samples of our amazing templates, just subscribe directly to Template.net and get full access to our huge library. What makes our template more attractive is its compatibility with any editing software and platforms, plus it can be downloaded on any digital device. So, what are you waiting for? Get a template from us today, and send beautifully composed Job Letters in an instant! 

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