Written Samples
15 sample cover letters for volunteer positions.
Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience.
But with so many worthy causes seeking help, how do you make your volunteer application stand out?
A compelling cover letter is key.
Just like with paid positions, a well-written cover letter allows you to showcase your passion, skills, and fit for the volunteer role you’re seeking.
It’s your chance to explain why the organization’s mission resonates with you and how you’re uniquely positioned to advance their important work.
Sample Cover Letters for Volunteer Positions
Of course, knowing what to say in a volunteer cover letter can feel like a mystery at first.
What tone should you strike? How much of your background is relevant to include?
To help you find the right words, we’ve put together 15 sample cover letters for common volunteer positions.
Whether you’re hoping to walk dogs at your local animal shelter, serve meals to those experiencing homelessness, or build houses with Habitat for Humanity, you’ll find an example here to use as a starting point.
We’ve covered a range of causes, roles, and experience levels.
With these cover letter examples as your guide, you’ll be well on your way to securing the volunteer opportunity of your dreams.
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference!
Sample #1: Animal Shelter Volunteer
Subject: Devoted Animal Lover Eager to Volunteer at City Animal Rescue
Dear City Animal Rescue Team,
Animals have been my passion for as long as I can remember. Growing up surrounded by rescue dogs, cats, rabbits, and even a horse, I learned from an early age the profound impact that a loving home can have on a creature in need. So when I moved to the city last month, my priority was to find a way to carry on my family’s tradition of animal advocacy as a volunteer.
City Animal Rescue’s mission of providing shelter, medical care, and forever homes for the area’s homeless and abandoned animals resonates deeply with me. With my background in caring for a variety of species and a natural rapport with animals big and small, I’m confident I could be an asset to your team in any capacity, whether that means walking dogs, socializing cats, or helping out with feeding and cleaning.
As a recent graduate with a degree in Biology and previous experience volunteering at my hometown’s Humane Society, I have a solid understanding of animal care best practices. I’m comfortable administering medications, tending to minor wounds, and identifying signs of illness. My former supervisor would attest to my reliability, attention to detail, and ability to stay calm and compassionate in emotionally charged situations.
Perhaps most importantly, I simply adore being around animals. I’m that person who will skip a party to spend quality time with the host’s cat or who will gladly sign up for the 6 am dog walking shift. The chance to brighten an animal’s day is all the incentive I need to show up and give my best.
I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you or your volunteer coordinator to discuss how my skills and experience could best serve City Animal Rescue’s needs. Thank you for considering my application.
Sarah Johnson
555-123-4567
Sample #2: Literacy Tutor
Subject: Experienced Educator Seeking Opportunity to Tutor Literacy Students
Dear Literacy For All Team,
As a recently retired high school English teacher with over 30 years of experience, I have witnessed again and again the doors that open up for students who strengthen their literacy skills. Being able to read, write, and communicate with confidence is truly life-changing, which is why I’m excited to offer my experience as a volunteer tutor with Literacy For All.
During my time in the classroom, I worked with students of all skill levels and backgrounds, from those reading far below grade level to AP English candidates. I have extensive experience differentiating instruction to meet individual needs and crafting creative lesson plans that keep students engaged. My former principal would attest that my patient, approachable demeanor made my classroom a “safe space” where students felt comfortable taking risks and asking for help.
In addition to my instructional experience, I’m also well-versed in assessing student progress, a skill I imagine would come in handy as a tutor working to help students meet personal literacy goals. I hold a Master’s degree in Education and am familiar with a variety of evidence-based literacy curricula and interventions.
On a personal note, I’m a lifelong bookworm who can’t imagine a world without the written word. Some of my warmest memories are of reading bedtime stories with my now-grown son and instilling in him a love of learning. As I step into this new chapter of my life, I’m eager to dedicate my time to a cause I’m truly passionate about. I would be honored to play a small part in Literacy For All’s mission to empower adult learners.
If my skills and experience seem like a good fit for your needs, I would love the chance to speak further about volunteer opportunities. Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
Margaret Thompson
555-234-5678
Sample #3: Homeless Shelter Volunteer
Subject: Compassionate Volunteer Ready to Help at Hope House Shelter
Dear Hope House Team,
As someone who has experienced homelessness myself, I know firsthand how vital organizations like Hope House are. During the darkest period of my life, it was the kindness of shelter volunteers that helped me maintain hope and eventually get back on my feet. Now that I’m in a more stable place, I’m eager to pay that compassion forward by volunteering with your team.
While I don’t have formal experience in social services, I bring a unique perspective and a deep empathy for those Hope House serves. I remember how much the little things, like a friendly face or a warm meal, meant to me when I was in a tough spot. I’m excited to provide that same comfort to others.
In terms of practical skills, I’m a quick learner who is comfortable taking direction. I have experience working in food service, so I would be at ease assisting with meal preparation or serving. As someone who has navigated the complexities of the shelter system, I’m also well-equipped to help residents access resources or even just lend an understanding ear.
Most importantly, I’m committed to treating every person who walks through Hope House’s doors with respect and compassion. I know the courage it takes to ask for help, and I want to be a positive, supportive presence for your residents.
If you think I would be a good fit for your team of volunteers, I would love to learn more about available opportunities. Thank you for considering my application and for the important work you do.
555-345-6789
Sample #4: Environmental Conservation Volunteer
Subject: Passionate Environmentalist Eager to Join TreeCorps Volunteer Team
Dear TreeCorps Team,
Growing up hiking in the Redwoods of Northern California, I developed a deep reverence for our planet’s forests at a young age. Now, as a college student studying Environmental Science, my passion for protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems has only grown. That’s why I’m thrilled at the prospect of joining TreeCorps’ team of volunteers.
TreeCorps’ mission of promoting healthy forests through tree planting, maintenance, and education aligns perfectly with my values and career goals. I believe strongly in the power of hands-on conservation work, and I’m eager to get my hands dirty (literally!) contributing to your projects.
As an Environmental Science major, I have a solid academic foundation in ecology, conservation biology, and sustainability. I’m well-versed in tree identification, planting best practices, and the role of forests in mitigating climate change. I’ve also completed relevant coursework in GIS mapping and data analysis, skills that could prove useful in planning and tracking planting sites.
Outside of the classroom, I’ve honed my fieldwork skills through an internship with the university’s sustainability office, where I helped maintain the campus arboretum. I’m physically fit, comfortable working outdoors in all weather and experienced with tools like shovels and pruners. Perhaps most importantly, I’m a positive, enthusiastic team player who is ready to learn.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to translate my passion for the environment into real, tangible impact as a TreeCorps volunteer. If my skills and experience seem like a good match for your team’s needs, I would love to discuss the next steps.
Thank you for your consideration and for all you do for our planet.
555-456-7890
Sample #5: Museum Docent
Subject: History Buff Excited to Share Knowledge as Museum Volunteer
Dear City Museum Volunteer Coordinator,
As a retired history teacher and lifelong learner, I’m thrilled at the prospect of combining my love of the past with my passion for education as a volunteer docent at the City Museum. I’ve been a card-carrying member for over a decade and some of my fondest weekends have been spent getting lost in your exhibits.
During my 25 years in the classroom, I prided myself on bringing history to life for my students through engaging lectures, interactive discussions, and hands-on learning opportunities. I have a knack for storytelling and for drawing connections between the past and the present. My former students would attest that my infectious enthusiasm for the subject matter made even the driest historical events feel relevant and exciting.
As a docent, I would relish the opportunity to share that same enthusiasm with museum visitors of all ages. Whether I was leading a tour, staffing an information desk, or providing directions, I would strive to make every interaction a positive learning experience. My patient, approachable demeanor and gift for public speaking would serve me well in engaging with guests.
In addition to my teaching background, I also have experience developing educational programming. As head of my school’s history department, I organized numerous field trips, guest lectures, and special events. I would be happy to lend those planning and organizational skills to assist with the museum’s educational initiatives.
I’m available to volunteer several days a week and am excited to dive in and learn all I can about the museum’s collection and operations. If you think I would be a good fit for your docent team, I would be honored to discuss the next steps.
Thank you for your consideration,
Robert Johnson
555-567-8901
Sample #6: Youth Sports Coach
Subject: Former Athlete Ready to Pay It Forward as Volunteer Coach
Dear City Youth Soccer Association,
Some of my most formative childhood memories took place on the soccer field. Under the guidance of dedicated coaches, I not only developed my skills as an athlete but also learned invaluable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Now, as a young professional, I’m eager to pay those lessons forward by volunteering as a coach with the City Youth Soccer Association.
As a former high school and collegiate soccer player, I have a deep love for the game and a solid understanding of its technical and strategic elements. I’m comfortable teaching fundamental skills, running drills, and designing game plans that play to a team’s strengths. More importantly, though, I’m passionate about using sports as a vehicle for boosting kids’ confidence, fostering their social-emotional development, and sparking their love of physical activity.
During my playing days, I served as a captain for both my high school and college teams, experiences that honed my leadership and communication skills. I have a knack for breaking down complex concepts, giving constructive feedback, and inspiring a team to work toward a common goal. I also volunteered as a youth mentor throughout college, so I’m comfortable engaging with kids and serving as a positive role model.
Off the field, I’m a pediatric nurse, a role that has further developed my patience, compassion, and ability to stay calm under pressure. I’m First Aid and CPR certified and well-versed in sports safety best practices. Parents can trust that their children’s well-being would be my top priority.
I would welcome the chance to further discuss how my experience could benefit the City Youth Soccer Association’s coaching staff and the young athletes you serve. Thank you for considering my application.
Jessica Hernandez
555-678-9012
Sample #7: Crisis Hotline Counselor
Subject: Compassionate Listener Eager to Serve as Crisis Hotline Volunteer
Dear Crisis Support Services Team,
In my work as a high school guidance counselor, I witness every day the life-changing impact of compassionate, non-judgmental listening. For struggling students, simply having someone to talk to who will validate their feelings and provide a safe space to process can make all the difference. I’m eager to extend that same supportive ear to a broader population as a volunteer with the Crisis Support Services hotline.
With a Master’s in Counseling Psychology and over a decade of experience in the field, I’m well-equipped to handle the emotional challenges of crisis intervention. I have training in suicide prevention, active listening, and de-escalation techniques. My professional experience has honed my ability to remain calm and focused in high-stress situations, to assess risk, and to connect individuals with appropriate resources.
As a counselor, my top priority is always to create an atmosphere of trust and openness where people feel heard and supported. I’m skilled at building rapport quickly, even over the phone, and have a warm, empathetic demeanor that puts people at ease. I’m also highly culturally competent and experienced in working with diverse populations.
Beyond my formal qualifications, I possess a deep personal commitment to mental health advocacy and a genuine desire to help others navigate life’s challenges. I lost a loved one to suicide as a teenager, an experience that ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in counseling. I understand intimately the vital role that hotline services play in preventing such tragedies.
I would be honored to join your team of dedicated volunteers and put my skills and passion to work supporting individuals in crisis. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how I might contribute to Crisis Support Services’ life-saving mission.
David Nguyen
555-789-0123
Sample #8: Community Garden Volunteer
Subject: Green Thumb Looking to Help Community Garden Grow
Dear Green Acres Community Garden Team,
As an avid home gardener and a firm believer in the power of green spaces to nourish both bodies and souls, I was thrilled to learn of the Green Acres Community Garden. Your mission of providing fresh, healthy food to the neighborhood while fostering a sense of community and connection to nature resonates deeply with me. I would love to lend my time and horticultural know-how to help further that mission as a volunteer.
For the past five years, I’ve transformed my own small urban backyard into a thriving vegetable and herb garden. Through trial and error (and a lot of YouTube tutorials), I’ve gained hands-on experience with every stage of the growing process, from seed starting and composting to pest control and harvesting. I have a particular knack for coaxing impressive yields out of small spaces and would be happy to share my space-saving techniques with fellow gardeners.
In addition to my practical gardening skills, I bring a collaborative, community-minded spirit to all I do. As the organizer of my block’s annual potluck, I understand the power of shared spaces and activities to bring people together and create a sense of belonging. I would relish the opportunity to apply that same community-building energy to the garden, whether by leading workshops, coordinating volunteer days, or simply swapping gardening tips with plot holders.
As a freelance graphic designer, I also have professional skills that could benefit the garden. I would be happy to lend my design capabilities to create flyers, signage, or social media content to help spread the word and engage the community.
Most importantly, I’m excited to roll up my sleeves, dig in the dirt, and play a small part in growing a healthier, more connected neighborhood. If you think I would be a good fit for the Green Acres volunteer team, I would love to discuss the next steps.
555-890-1234
Sample #9: Habitat for Humanity Construction Volunteer
Subject: Handy and Hardworking Professional Eager to Help Build Homes
Dear Habitat for Humanity Team,
As someone who has been blessed with a safe, stable place to call home, I’m acutely aware of how vital decent housing is to overall well-being. Habitat for Humanity’s mission of bringing people together to build homes, communities, and hope resonates deeply with me, and I’m writing to offer my skills and labor as a construction volunteer.
While I spend my weekdays in an office as a software engineer, my true passion lies in hands-on building projects. Growing up, I spent countless hours helping my father, a contractor, on various job sites. Under his guidance, I gained practical experience with framing, drywalling, roofing, finishing carpentry, and more. To this day, I spend most weekends tackling home improvement projects, from renovating my kitchen to building a backyard shed.
As a volunteer, I would be thrilled to put my construction know-how to work helping hardworking families achieve the dream of homeownership. I’m comfortable using a wide range of tools and am a quick study when it comes to learning new skills. I take pride in my attention to detail and my ability to problem-solve on the fly, traits that served me well on past building projects.
Perhaps more importantly, I’m a firm believer in the power of housing to transform lives and strengthen communities. As a tech professional, I’ve seen firsthand how the skyrocketing cost of living in our city has priced out far too many families. Volunteering with Habitat would allow me to be a small part of the solution, to tangibly contribute to creating a more just and equitable community.
I’m available most weekends and would be honored to join your team of dedicated volunteers. If my skills and experience seem like a good fit for your current construction needs, I’d love to discuss the next steps.
555-012-3456
Sample #10: Meals on Wheels Volunteer
Subject: Retiree Ready to Deliver Meals and Smiles with Meals on Wheels
Dear Meals on Wheels Coordinator,
As a newly retired nurse, I’m eager to continue making a positive difference in my community. Meals on Wheels’ mission of delivering not just nourishment but also comfort and compassion to homebound seniors resonates deeply with me. I would be honored to contribute my time and heart as a volunteer meal deliverer.
During my 40-year nursing career, I specialized in geriatric care. I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and joys of working with older adults, from managing complex medical conditions to providing emotional support. My professional experience has honed my ability to assess well-being, communicate clearly and patiently, and infuse even brief interactions with warmth and humanity.
Beyond my clinical skills, I simply enjoy connecting with seniors and hearing their stories. As someone who lost my own beloved grandparents too early, I jump at any chance to be a friendly face and listening ear for an older adult. I know that for many Meals on Wheels clients, their volunteer might be the only person they see all day. I would strive to make that interaction a bright spot, to deliver not just a meal but a dose of good cheer.
On a practical level, I’m organized, punctual, and comfortable driving around the city. As a nurse, I’m also well-versed in food safety and sanitation practices. You can count on me to show up on time with a smile and ensure meals are handled properly and delivered safely.
I’m available to volunteer several mornings a week and would be thrilled to be part of Meals on Wheels’ vital work. If my skills and experience seem like a good fit, I’d love to discuss the next steps. Thank you for all you do to nourish our community’s seniors.
Susan Smith
Sample #11: Library Volunteer
Subject: Bookworm and Aspiring Librarian Eager to Help at City Library
Dear City Library Volunteer Coordinator,
Libraries have always been my happy place. As a kid, I spent countless hours getting lost in the stacks, discovering new worlds and ideas with each book I checked out. Now, as a recent college graduate preparing to apply to library science programs, I’m eager to give back to the institution that shaped me by volunteering at the City Library.
As an English Literature major, I have a deep love of books and a keen understanding of the vital role libraries play in promoting literacy and lifelong learning. I’m passionate about connecting readers with the perfect book and am always eager to discuss the latest literary gems. I would relish the opportunity to share that enthusiasm as a volunteer, whether by helping patrons locate resources, offering reading recommendations, or assisting with shelving and displays.
Throughout college, I worked part-time at my university’s library, an experience that familiarized me with library operations and customer service. I’m comfortable using digital cataloging systems, have a keen eye for detail when it comes to shelving, and am skilled at explaining library services and policies to patrons. My supervisors consistently praised my reliability, initiative, and friendly, approachable demeanor.
In addition to my library experience, I’m also a skilled writer and researcher. As a volunteer, I would be excited to lend those skills to assist with any special projects, from crafting book reviews for the library blog to helping compile resource guides. I’m proficient with a variety of digital tools and pick up new technologies quickly.
Most importantly, I’m passionate about making the library a welcoming space for all. As someone who found solace and belonging among the bookshelves as a shy child, I’m committed to extending that same sense of inclusion to every patron who walks through the doors, regardless of background.
I’m available to volunteer several afternoons a week and would be thrilled to join the City Library’s team of dedicated volunteers. Thank you for considering my application.
Emily Jones
Sample #12: Food Bank Volunteer
Subject: Dedicated Community Servant Ready to Help Fight Hunger
Dear Food Bank Team,
Growing up in a family that often struggled to make ends meet, I know firsthand the fear and shame that accompany not knowing where your next meal will come from. I also know the immense relief and gratitude that come with receiving a box of groceries in a time of need. Now, as an adult in a more stable position, I’m committed to easing that burden for others in my community by volunteering with the Food Bank.
While I don’t have direct experience in food service or distribution, I bring a wide range of skills and a deep empathy for those facing food insecurity. As a social worker, I interact daily with individuals and families in crisis. I’m skilled at assessing needs, connecting people with resources, and providing emotional support with compassion and respect. My professional experience has also honed my cultural competency and ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
Beyond my social services background, I’m a hard worker with a can-do attitude. Whether I was stocking shelves, packing boxes, or distributing food, I would tackle every task with diligence and integrity. I’m physically fit, able to lift heavy items, and comfortable being on my feet for extended periods.
Perhaps most importantly, I’m passionate about the Food Bank’s mission and ready to jump in however I’m needed. Having been on the receiving end of food assistance, I know how much every bag of groceries matters. I would be honored to play a small part in getting nourishment to those who need it most, and in treating every client with the dignity they deserve.
I’m available to volunteer several days a week and would be thrilled to join your team in the fight against hunger. If my skills and experience seem like a good fit, I’d love to discuss the next steps.
Gratefully,
Michael Rodriguez
Sample #13: After-School Program Volunteer
Subject: Energetic Tutor Ready to Inspire Young Learners
Dear After-School Program Coordinator,
As a college student studying elementary education, I jumped at the chance to volunteer with your after-school program. I’m passionate about creating engaging learning experiences for children and would relish the opportunity to contribute to your mission of providing enriching, supportive after-school care.
Through my education coursework and classroom observations, I’ve gained a solid understanding of child development and effective teaching strategies. I’m well-versed in designing hands-on, age-appropriate activities that promote learning while keeping kids entertained. Whether I was leading a science experiment, coaching kids through a tricky math problem, or facilitating a creative writing exercise, I would strive to make every moment a chance for growth and discovery.
Beyond my academic preparation, I have extensive experience working with children in various settings. As a summer camp counselor, I planned and led daily activities for groups of 20+ campers, honing my skills in behavior management and group facilitation. I’ve also volunteered as a tutor at my local Boys and Girls Club, providing one-on-one homework help and mentorship to struggling students.
In every role, I’ve been praised for my patience, creativity, and ability to connect with kids. I have a playful, energetic demeanor that puts children at ease and encourages them to open up. At the same time, I’m able to set clear expectations and maintain a structured environment conducive to learning. Above all, I’m committed to seeing every child as an individual with unique strengths and challenges.
I’m available to volunteer 3-4 afternoons per week and would be thrilled to be part of making your after-school program a fun, enriching space for kids to grow. If my skills and experience seem like a good match for your needs, I’d love to discuss the next steps.
Jessica Patel
Sample #14: Animal Rescue Transport Volunteer
Subject: Reliable Animal Lover Ready to Help Transport Rescue Pets
Dear Animal Rescue Team,
As a lifelong animal advocate and proud pet parent to two rescue dogs, I’m always looking for ways to help more furry friends find their forever homes. When I learned about your need for transport volunteers to help shuttle animals from overcrowded shelters to your rescue, I knew I had to get involved.
While I don’t have formal experience in animal care, I’m a responsible, reliable individual with a deep love for creatures great and small. Growing up on a farm, I’m comfortable handling animals of various sizes and temperaments. I have a calm, patient demeanor that seems to put even the most skittish pets at ease. As a current dog owner, I’m well-versed in reading canine body language and using positive reinforcement to manage behavior on walks and car rides.
In terms of logistics, I have a clean driving record and a spacious, well-maintained SUV that could comfortably accommodate several crated dogs. I’m detail-oriented and would take great care to ensure each animal was secure, safe, and as comfortable as possible during transport. I also have a flexible work schedule and am available most weekends for longer hauls if needed.
Beyond the practical details, I’m excited to be a small part of the lifesaving work your rescue does. I know firsthand the joy that comes with watching a once-homeless animal blossom in a loving home. It would be an honor to help more pets get that second chance by ensuring they arrive safely at your facility.
If you think I would be a good fit for your transport team, I would love to discuss logistics and next steps. Thank you for all you do for the animals in our community.
Mark Johnson
Sample #15: Park Cleanup Volunteer
Subject: Nature Enthusiast Ready to Help Keep City Parks Beautiful
Dear Parks Department Volunteer Coordinator,
As an avid hiker and birdwatcher, I spend most of my free time exploring our city’s incredible park system. From the serene trails of Maple Grove to the bustling playgrounds of Central Park, these green spaces are truly the jewels of our community. I’m writing to offer my time and energy to help keep them clean, safe, and beautiful for all to enjoy.
As a retired teacher, I’m no stranger to rolling up my sleeves and tackling a project. During my years in the classroom, I led numerous student volunteer initiatives, from campus cleanups to tree planting days. I have a knack for rallying a team, breaking big tasks into manageable steps, and maintaining a positive, energetic atmosphere even when the work is tough.
I’m also a stickler for details and take pride in a job well done. Whether I was picking up litter, clearing brush from trails, or painting picnic tables, I would approach every task with care and thoroughness. As a frequent park user myself, I’m invested in making sure every inch of our green spaces looks its best.
Beyond the practical work, I would relish the chance to share my love of nature with other volunteers. As an amateur naturalist, I’m always eager to point out interesting flora and fauna or share a bit of local ecology. I believe that the more people understand and appreciate the natural world, the more they’ll be motivated to protect it.
I’m available to volunteer several mornings a week and would be thrilled to join your team in caring for our city’s parks. If my skills and enthusiasm seem like a good fit, I’d love to discuss the next steps.
Sarah Davis
Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back, gain experience, and make a real difference in your community.
By tailoring your cover letter to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and genuine enthusiasm for the organization’s mission, you’ll increase your chances of landing the volunteer role you’re passionate about.
So get out there and start lending your time and talents!
The right volunteer opportunity is waiting for you.
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
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Volunteer cover letter example
MICHELLE SANDERS
New York, NY
+1-(234)-555-1234
- 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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