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14 non profit volunteer cover letters.

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

Hiring Manager for Non Profit Volunteer Roles

Table of contents

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

Non Profit Volunteer Cover Letter Example

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

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

Enthusiastic and empathetic individual

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

Show Enthusiasm for the Cause

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

Aligning Personal and Organizational Values

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

Demonstrating Skill Application

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

Expressing Genuine Excitement

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

Understanding the Organization's Approach

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

Show your passion for the non-profit mission

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

Highlight relevant volunteer experience

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

Stress the importance of teamwork and adaptability

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

Express willingness to learn and contribute

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

Convey gratitude and eagerness to impact

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

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Share personal motivations for volunteering

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

Demonstrate a history of meaningful volunteer work

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

Match your skills with the organization's needs

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

Emphasize your alignment with the organization's legacy

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

Convey eagerness to contribute to the mission

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

Show your personal connection to nonprofit work

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

Demonstrate leadership in volunteer coordination

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

Connect with the mission

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

End with a strong call to action

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

Non Profit Volunteer Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Highlight measurable achievements.

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

Non Profit Program Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Connecting personal experiences with job motivation.

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

Highlighting Relationship Building Skills

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

Aligning Experience with Organizational Focus

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

Admiring Innovation

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

Community Outreach Volunteer Cover Letter Example

Share the moment you found your calling.

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

Demonstrate your ability to adapt and engage

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

Communicate your excitement for the organization’s mission

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

Showcase your collaborative spirit

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

Express appreciation and a desire to contribute

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

Inspiration leads to passion

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

Success with measurable impact

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

Skills that build communities

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

Alignment with organizational mission

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

Eagerness to contribute

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

Express admiration for the organization

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

Highlight relevant event planning experience

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

Leverage your marketing skills

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

Show enthusiasm for collaboration

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

Volunteer Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Show your long-term commitment to volunteering.

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

Quantify your volunteer impact

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

Connect with the organization's mission

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

Highlight relevant skills for managing volunteers

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

Express enthusiasm for the role

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

Personal connection to volunteer work

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

Proven experience in volunteer management

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

Creating positive volunteer experiences

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

Commitment to the organization's mission

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

Openness to discussion and collaboration

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

Event Planning Volunteer Cover Letter Example

Show your event planning passion.

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

Detail your event planning experience

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

Highlight your desire to make a difference

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

Express gratitude and eagerness to contribute

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

Alternative Introductions

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

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cover letter for volunteer in ngo

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cover letter for volunteer in ngo

Sample Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position

Mary McLain / The Balance

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Tips for Writing a Cover Letter to Volunteer

What to include in a cover letter for volunteering, how to send an email cover letter.

When applying for any professional position, it is good form to include a cover letter with your resume. Your cover letter is an opportunity to highlight some of your most relevant qualifications and experiences, enhance your resume, and increase your chances of being called for an interview.

This is true for volunteer positions as well as for paid ones. Your cover letter is an opportunity to share your interest in an organization and explain why you'd like to volunteer with the group.

Here's advice on what to include in a cover letter for volunteering, an example, a template to download, and tips for emailing your letter.

There are many reasons why you may be considering applying for a volunteer position. Perhaps you are hoping to volunteer as a way of exploring a possible career field. Or, you may feel passionate about a cause and wish to help “make a difference.”

It may be that volunteering is a required component of a school, church, or club program.

Whatever your reason, a strong cover letter will help you to gain positive attention and—hopefully—to garner a personal interview for the volunteer role you are interested in.

Include Relevant Experience

When you’re writing a cover letter for a volunteer position, whenever possible, you should try to call on your experience that is most relevant to the volunteer role. Give some thought to what you believe will be your responsibilities as a volunteer, and then write a list of your experiences that have prepared you to assume these particular tasks.

Show How You're a Fit

The relevancy of your background experience is more important than whether it was voluntary, paid, or recreational. If you don’t have relevant experience, then do your best to connect your professional, academic, extracurricular, and/or personal history to the position, explaining why you think you are a great fit for the organization and how your skill set will enable you to become a strong contributor to their mission.

Explain Why You Want to Volunteer

You should also provide some reasoning as to why you are applying to volunteer. After all, in most cases, volunteering is completely “voluntary,” so the organization will want to know what’s motivating your application. 

If you aren’t applying on your own volition—if it is part of some requirement for school, work, or something else—then it’s best not to mention anything that would cause the organization to doubt your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Include Your Contact Information

Finally, you should end your letter with a brief description of your availability, along with the best way to contact you.

You can use this cover letter sample as a model. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

Here's an example of a cover letter written for a volunteer position.

Sample Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position (Text Version)

Brady Applicant

123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 brady.applicant@email.com

May 4, 2021

Jackson Lee Director Greenleaf Child Center 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee,

I am interested in an opportunity to volunteer with the Greenleaf Child Center. I have significant experience working with children and would like to continue to do so in a volunteer capacity.

I volunteered as a teacher’s aide at the Champlain School and enjoyed being able to help kindergarteners learn during their first experience in a classroom. In this position, I assisted with classroom projects, provided one-on-one literacy tutoring to the children, and chaperoned field trips. I also contributed additional time, outside of my set hours, to stay after school and assist with extracurricular activities.

For the past several winters, I volunteered with children on the slopes of a local ski resort, assisting coaches with teaching basic skiing to toddlers and elementary school-age children.

If the Greenleaf Center has a need for a dedicated volunteer, I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to assist. I believe it would be an excellent opportunity to develop my interest in early childhood education, a field I wish to study and pursue professionally in the future.

My schedule is flexible, and I am available to volunteer both evening and weekend hours, as well as during the day. Please feel free to reach out to me via email or cell phone.

I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person to discuss any potential opportunities at the Greenleaf Child Center.

Thanks for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you!

Brady Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

If you're sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the reason you're writing in the subject line of the email message:

Subject:  Volunteer Position - Brady Applicant

Include your contact information in your email signature, and don't list the employer's contact information. Start your email message with the salutation.

Here's how to format an email cover letter and more details on sending an email cover letter.

Volunteer Cover Letter Example

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

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

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

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Try our AI Cover Letter Generator

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Humanitarian Careers

NGO Cover Letter (Ultimate Guide)

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When you apply for a job with an NGO, a key part of your application will be a cover letter, alongside submitting a CV. A cover letter is a formal letter explaining why you are a strong candidate for a job. NGO recruiters will review your cover letter and decide if they should short-list you for an interview. Therefore, your cover letter needs to demonstrate you have the skills and experience, as well as the passion, to work at the NGO you are applying to.

We’ve put together this guide to help you write a great cover letter for an NGO job. It goes over thirteen crucial steps you should follow when writing your NGO cover letter. Follow the steps in this guide and see what you should, and shouldn’t, put in your cover letter for that NGO job…

Your Cover Letter Should Be Just One Page

The first thing you need to understand when writing a cover letter for an NGO job application is that it should never be more than one page long.

Your cover letter for an NGO job needs to catch the recruiter’s attention. NGO jobs are highly competitive. Some openings at top NGOs will get hundreds of applicants. NGO recruiters simply aren’t going to read really long cover letters. Keep it to one page to make sure it’s actually read.

Because NGO recruiters have to sift through so many applications, they usually only give each one a brief glance. It’s a shame because you put a lot of work into your application, however, it’s the truth. Therefore, you need to capture the hiring managers attention. One way to do this is to keep your cover letter to less than a single page.

A good length for an NGO cover letter is between 350 and 500 words. Make sure you write in font size 12. This means your cover letter will come out at about three quarters of a page. This is a good length as it allows you to include enough key details, without being too long to lose the NGO recruiters attention.

A cover letter for a job at an NGO that is longer than 500 words or so will have a higher chance of not being read. This means your application will be passed over and you’ll lose the opportunity to join the NGO you want in the role you applied for.

If you write a cover letter for an NGO job that’s less than about 500 words, it will simply be too short to include enough details, and may give the wrong impression to the hiring manager.

Make Sure Your Cover Letter Is Well Written

The second thing you must consider for a cover letter for an NGO job is that it must be well written.

Your cover letter is a key part of your job application for an NGO. Before you reach the interview stage, all the hiring manager knows about you is what you put in your CV and cover letter. Therefore, it is vital that you give the right impression. Making sure your NGO cover letter is written professionally is vital to this.

Start your cover letter with Dear Sir/Madam. This is the correct formal way to address a letter to someone who you do not know the name of. Your cover letter should close with ‘yours faithfully’ – again, the correct formal way to end a letter to someone you do not know.

When writing a cover letter for an NGO job, make sure you break your text down into clear paragraphs. Each paragraph should address a different topic, such as previous work experience, education, soft skills or why you want this role or to work for this particular NGO.

The way you write in your cover letter should be clear, and professional. Never use slang, and write in complete sentences. Good grammar is also hugely important. If you struggle with writing clearly, and correctly, run your cover letter through a spell-checker or a tool such as Grammerly .

If you are unsure whether your cover letter is well written and makes your points clearly, have a friend or family member read it and ask them to assess if it making your points directly enough.

Tailor Your Cover Letter For Each Job Application

Probably one of the most important things you need to do when writing your cover letter for an NGO job is ensure that you are tailoring it for each application that you send.

Don’t write a generic cover letter and send it to every job. NGO recruiters will be reviewing your cover letter to assess how well you fit for the particular role they are hiring for. Editing your cover letter so that it is tailored to the role you are applying for is key.

Tailoring your cover letter for the job you are applying for allows you to clearly demonstrate how well you fit the role. It also lets you demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the NGO and the specific position.

NGO jobs are highly competitive. You will need to send a lot of applications, especially if you are early in your career, to land an NGO role. Therefore, writing an entirely new cover letter for each job application you send will take too much time. You need to have a cover letter that acts as a template, and then have key sections that you can quickly edit for each job you apply for…

For example, parts of the cover letter covering trainings, education and soft skills will likely not change much between jobs. However, sections such as how your previous professional experience makes you qualified for the role, need to change slightly for each application. The section explaining why you want to work for that organisation also needs to be edited for each NGO that you apply to.

Remember, save all the cover letters you send to NGOs. This mean if you apply to the same organisation again, or to a similar role, you can go back to older version and tailor them more easily.

Your Cover Letter Must Capture The Recruiters Attention

A vital aspect of your NGO cover letter is that it must capture the recruiter’s attention.

As we said, NGO job openings can get hundreds of applications – your cover letter needs to stand out. Often NGO recruiters will only take a quick glance over a cover letter before deciding whether to shortlist that candidate for interview. Therefore, you need to ensure that even with a quick look, your cover letter conveys that you are right person for that NGO job.

After your opening of ‘Dear Sir/Madam’, its often good to include a line that confirms the role you are applying for – something like ‘I wish to apply for the position of… with…’ NGO.  This just ensures that the recruiter is aware of the role you are a candidate for.

The next line of your cover letter, usually the opening of your first full paragraph, should highlight your most recent and most relevant work experience. Something along the lines of ‘I am currently employed as…’, or ‘I have experience in a similar role as…’. This instantly tells the NGO recruiter that you are a highly relevant candidate.

Now that you’ve got the recruiters attention, use that paragraph to describe how that position is relevant to the job you are applying for. Again, be direct and concise here, but the aim is to show that your current, or most recent, professional experience is as closely linked to the NGO job you are applying to as you can.

Be Sure To Expand On Your Professional Experiences

Once you have caught the hiring manager’s attention, and demonstrated that your most recent, or most relevant role, is closely linked to the NGO job you are applying for, the next step in writing your cover letter is to expand on your professional experiences.

You should now move to another paragraph, and here you should highlight, briefly, any other relevant work experience you have. If you have a lot of related experience, especially if you have worked for NGOs before, choose some roles that are most closely linked to the position you are applying for.

The aim here is to further show the NGO recruiter that you have professional experience that would provide you the knowledge and skills needed to do the job. You do not need to list all your jobs here, but you should provide details on the relevant positions.

If you are new to the NGO sector, or applying for entry-level roles, instead of including other professional experiences you could expand more on the experience you do have. For example, here you could detail internships or volunteer postings you have done. However, only include them if they are relevant to the NGO job you are applying for.

Make Sure Your Cover Letter Links To The Exact Job Description

As we’ve discussed briefly already, it’s really important that your NGO cover letter directly links to the job you are applying for. One of the best ways to do this is to review the job description posted in the job advert by the NGO, and address the key points in it in your cover letter.

Directly addressing the key points in the job description in your cover letter tells the NGO recruiter directly that you have the required skills and experience to do the job.

Your cover letter should be less than one page – ideally around 500 words. This means you cannot link your previous work experience to every point in the job description. Therefore, you need to pick the most important points only. Often these are the main sub-headings, but make sure to read the job advert to see if the NGO includes any particular challenges or transitions that the role may face.

It’s important in the part of the cover letter not to just repeat your CV. Remember, the NGO recruiter has a copy of your CV and will be reviewing that as well. Your aim here is to briefly describe how your professional experience means you have the skills and competencies listed in the job description.

NGO hiring managers will be looking to recruit the person with the most relevant skills – this is your chance to show them it’s you!

Outline Your Training and Education

After giving a brief overview of your professional experience in your NGO cover letter, you should now include your education and training. This should be the start of another paragraph.

Begin by explaining your most recent university degree. Almost all NGO jobs require at least a bachelors, and usually a masters, and so it is important to highlight that you have these to the recruiter.

After including your degree, you should then go on to list any other qualifications you have. However, only include qualifications that are highly relevant. If you have a masters related to NGO work, but a bachelors that is not, then leave it out. Remember – the aim in your cover letter is to be concise and clear.

Once you have listed your qualifications in your cover letter, next you should put a single sentence explaining how these are relevant to the NGO job you are applying for. You do not need to include a sentence linking each of your qualifications, a single line covering all of them will suffice.

As well as including your qualifications, in this paragraph of the cover letter you can also include any training courses you have completed. You can either include a following sentence also describing how these give you the skills and experience needed to do the job, or you can include them and then have one sentence linking both your university qualifications and training to the role.

Don’t list all the trainings you have done. The aim is to include the most relevant ones to the NGO job you are applying for. The most important thing is to explain how these make you qualified for the position. Again, remember the hiring manager will have your CV as well – it’s there that you can list more of your trainings.

NGO Online Courses

If you are looking to work for an NGO, we highly recommend the online course  International Humanitarian and Development Careers . We think it provides one of the best overviews of the NGO sector and gives a clear breakdown of the skills needed to get an NGO job. It also provides valuable information on how to successfully apply for positions within NGOs. Click the link to be taken to the course’s page.

We also think the online course  Introduction to NGO Management  is a must for anyone wanting to work for an NGO. It goes over how NGOs operate and introduces students to the unique aspects of the NGO sector they will need to know in order to land a job. Follow the link for more information.

Another online course we highly recommend for those wanting to join the NGO sector is  How To Design and Fund International Development NGO Projects . Anyone working for an NGO needs a basic understanding of how NGO projects are set-up, and how to input to funding proposals. This course is a must for those wanting to work for an NGO. Click the link to get more information on the course.

Include Descriptions Of Your Soft Skills

Now that you’ve outlined your professional experience, formal qualifications and trainings – essentially the ‘hard’ skills you have, next in your cover letter you need to briefly go over the inter-personal skills you have – your ‘soft’ skills.

When NGOs post a job advert, they almost always include the competencies they are looking for the role. These can be soft skills such as team work, problem solving, initiative taking and leadership. They can also be more closely aligned to the NGOs own mission and values – and include things like inclusion, accountability, neutrality and fairness.

It’s important you address the soft skills listed in the job advert. Start a new paragraph of your cover letter and briefly explain which inter-personal skills you have. If you have space, also include a sentence on how you acquired these skills, such as that your previous work experience, volunteer postings or education meant that you built the specific soft skills the NGO is looking for role.

Remember, the aim of your cover letter is to expand on your CV, not repeat it. Including your soft skills in your NGO cover letter is ideal as these should not be included in your CV.

As always, keep this part of your cover letter short and to-the-point. Also, ensure that you are including the competencies included in the job description, but, if possible, do not copy them word-for-word.

Highlight Your Computer Skills In Your Cover Letter

Almost all modern jobs require IT skills – NGO jobs are no different. It’s important in your cover letter that you highlight that you have the computer skills relevant to the job.

Include a single sentence stating that you are computer literate and understand how to use the specific programmes the job requires.

Pretty much every NGO job will require you to have moderate-to-strong abilities in Microsoft Word and Excel, so be sure to include these in your cover letter. PowerPoint is also commonly used so it can be beneficial to list this as well.

Some specific NGO roles may require the use of additional computer programmes. For example, finance roles are likely to require experience in accounting software such as QuickBooks. If you know the NGO uses a certain software, or is likely to use a similar programme for the position you are applying for, be sure to mention it in your cover letter.

You should keep this section of your cover letter focusing on your IT skills to a minimum. One, or maximum two, sentences is enough to convey to the NGO hiring manager that you understand the level of computer work needed to do the job.

Explain Why You Want This Job

So, you’ve explained in your cover letter your professional and educational background, as well as the soft skills you have that are relevant to the NGO job you are applying for. You’ve also included a short section covering your IT skills. Now, you need to show your passion for the role!

There are two main things you should do when explaining to an NGO in your cover letter why you want the job. The first is the specific reason why the role excites you. Be genuine here. Look for real reasons why this job is the perfect role for you. However, ensure you remain relevant to the job– avoid general terms about why you want to work in the NGO sector. Instead, explain why the particulars of this role made you apply.

The second thing you need to do here in your cover letter is explain what the job will do for you. How does it build on your current professional or educational experience. Avoid saying that the role is just a stepping stone to another job – this will make the hiring manager think you’ll leave the job as soon as a better one comes up. Instead, focus on how the job relates to your wider, and more general, career goals.

Again, be honest and passionate about why you want the job so that the NGO recruiter can see you are excited by the position.

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Describe Why You Want to Work For This NGO

The last part of your NGO cover letter should explain why you want to work for that organisation.

Each NGO is unique and they are often proud of their histories and the work they do. NGO’s also look to recruit people whose values and passions align with their mission. Therefore, is it vital to include a sentence about why working for this particular NGO interests you.

Note – here you need to be specific about the NGO. Don’t say why you want to work for NGOs generally. Do some research on the organisation you are applying to and ensure the ending statement of your cover letter relates directly to the organisations work.

One tip is to look at the NGOs mission statement. These can almost always be found on the NGOs website. Don’t repeat their exact words back to them – but do say that this mission excites you and makes you want to work for the organization.

If an NGO doesn’t have a mission statement on their website, take a quick look over their areas of programming they do and highlight why these interest you.

As always, keep it direct and to-the-point. One sentence here should be enough.

Don’t Include Start Date or Salary Expectation

Unless a NGO’s job advert explicitly asks you to include a date of when you can start in the role, or your salary expectations, don’t.

Generally, it’s good to leave this information out unless you have to include it. These details are best discussed at the interview stage where you can provide more detail and context.

The only time you should include your start date in an NGO cover letter is if you can start work immediately. This can be in your favour as NGO recruitments are often urgent and including that you can start in the position right away can actually help your application.

If an NGO explicitly says they want applicants to include a start date in their cover letter, it is best to include a rough date, or better, something like ‘available with one months’ notice’ – or whatever your current jobs notice period is.

Don’t Include A Photograph

A final point to note when writing your cover letter for an NGO job is that you shouldn’t put a photograph of yourself.

Although in some countries putting a photograph on your job application is more common, generally it is best not to. Putting a photograph rarely adds to the quality of an application. Almost no NGOs require applicants to include photographs when they apply for a job.

A good rule to follow is to only give information in your cover letter that will directly help you get the job. Essentially, if an NGO recruiter doesn’t need a piece of information, don’t give it to them. Your cover letter is a key tool in convincing the NGO hiring manager that you are a strong candidate for the job, and that they should short-list you for an interview. Putting a photograph does not help with this argument, and therefore it shouldn’t be included.

If, on the very rare occasion, an NGO does ask you to include a photograph in your application. Ensure it is professional and clear. Don’t use a passport photo… everyone looks bad in passport photos!

If you want to know more about how to get a job with an NGO, as well as application tips, check out our page on the top NGO online courses here .

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Letter Templates & Example

5 Effective Cover Letter Templates for NGO Jobs

Letter sample 116

Looking for a job in the non-profit sector can be challenging, especially when it comes to highly competitive positions. When applying for an NGO job, one of the essential documents you need to prepare is a cover letter. It’s a way to stand out from the crowd, showcase your skills, and demonstrate your passion for the mission. However, creating a cover letter from scratch can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a cover letter template for NGO job seekers, which you can find below. Our template provides examples of how to structure your letter, what to include, and what to avoid. So whether you’re applying for a job in global health, human rights, or environmental advocacy, our cover letter template can help you craft a compelling message that resonates with hiring managers. Feel free to use our examples and edit them as needed to make them your own. Good luck with your job search, and we hope this cover letter template for NGO job seekers helps you land your dream role.

The Best Structure for a Cover Letter Template for an NGO Job

When applying for a job in a non-governmental organization (NGO), it is essential to create a cover letter that stands out from the rest. A great cover letter showcases your qualifications, experience, and passion for the mission of the organization. In this article, we will explore the best structure for a cover letter template for an NGO job.

The first paragraph of your cover letter should grab the reader’s attention. Start by introducing yourself, stating the specific position you are applying for, and how you came across the opportunity. Highlight the organization’s mission and why you are interested in joining their team. A great hook will make the reader want to read on and learn more about you.

The second paragraph should focus on your qualifications and experience. Highlight your academic and professional achievements that make you the perfect candidate for the position. If you have specific skills that are required for the job, mention them here. It’s also essential to highlight any experience you have working with NGOs or non-profits. This shows the reader that you understand the unique challenges that come with working in the non-profit sector.

The third paragraph should highlight your passion for the organization’s mission. Share personal experiences or stories that led you to want to work for an NGO. This paragraph is an opportunity to showcase your commitment to the organization’s goals and values. This is also a great place to mention any volunteer work you have done in the past that aligns with the NGO’s mission.

The fourth paragraph is where you can wrap up your cover letter. Make sure to reiterate your interest in the position and the organization. Thank the reader for their time and consideration. If possible, mention that you look forward to the opportunity to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.

In conclusion, a well-structured cover letter is a crucial part of your job application for an NGO position. Start with a strong introduction, highlight your qualifications and experience, showcase your passion for the organization’s mission, and wrap up with a strong conclusion. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to standing out from the competition and landing your dream job in an NGO!

NGO Job Cover Letter Templates

Sample 1: applying for a program manager position.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the Program Manager position at [NGO name]. With my extensive experience in program management and working with vulnerable populations, I am confident in my ability to make a positive contribution to your organization.

In my previous role as a Program Manager at [previous organization], I successfully developed and implemented various programs for underserved communities. My skills in project management, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement have allowed me to deliver high-quality programs that have a positive impact on target beneficiaries.

I am excited by the prospect of contributing my skills and experience to [NGO name] and look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my application with you.

Thank you for considering my application.

[Your Name]

Sample 2: Applying for a Fundraising Position

Dear [NGO name] Hiring Team,

As an experienced fundraising professional, I was thrilled to see the opening for a Development Officer at your organization. My track record of success in securing funding for non-profits aligns well with your mission and the work you do in the community.

Throughout my career, I have worked with various organizations, including [previous organization], where I successfully raised $X million in a single year. My skills in donor cultivation, grant writing, and event planning have helped me generate significant support for non-profits like yours.

I would be excited to join [NGO name] and contribute to your fundraising efforts. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample 3: Recommending Someone for a Community Outreach Position

It is my pleasure to recommend [Name] for the Community Outreach Worker position at [NGO name]. I have had the pleasure of working alongside [Name] for the past X years and can attest to their passion for community development and proven track record of success.

During their time at [previous organization], [Name] developed and delivered various community outreach programs that had a significant impact on the target population. Their skills in project management, community engagement, and data analysis allowed them to deliver results that exceeded expectations.

I am confident that [Name] would be a valuable addition to your team and would excel in the Community Outreach Worker role. Thank you for considering their application.

Sample 4: Recommending Someone for an Advocacy Position

I am writing to recommend [Name] for the Advocacy Officer position at [NGO name]. [Name] is a highly motivated and experienced advocate with a proven track record of successfully advocating for human rights and social justice.

During our time working together at [previous organization], [Name] led various advocacy campaigns that resulted in significant policy changes. Their skills in research, policy analysis, and coalition building helped them to leverage support from stakeholders and effectively communicate their message.

I am confident that [Name] would be a valuable addition to your team and would excel in the Advocacy Officer role. Thank you for considering their application.

Sample 5: Applying for a Research Position

I am writing to apply for the Research Analyst position at [NGO name]. I am excited by the prospect of joining an organization that is committed to promoting evidence-based solutions to social and economic issues.

As a graduate of the [University] with a degree in [field], I have developed a strong foundation in research methodologies and data analysis. My previous work experience at [previous organization] allowed me to apply these skills to evaluate and monitor program effectiveness.

I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the Research Analyst position. Thank you for considering my application.

Sample 6: Applying for an Internship Position

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Internship position at [NGO name]. As a recent graduate of [University] with a degree in Marketing, I am eager to gain hands-on experience and make a meaningful contribution to your organization.

Through my academic studies and previous internships, I have developed skills in market research, campaign planning, and social media management. I am excited by the opportunity to apply these skills to promote the important work done by [NGO name] and help advance your mission.

Thank you for considering my application for the Marketing Internship position.

Sample 7: Applying for a Volunteer Position

Dear [NGO name] Volunteer Coordinator,

I am writing to express my interest in volunteering with your organization. I am eager to use my skills and experience to support your mission and help make a positive impact on the community.

As a [your occupation], I have skills in [skill 1], [skill 2], and [skill 3]. I am confident that these skills can be applied to various volunteer positions at [NGO name], including [specific position].

I am excited by the prospect of volunteering with such a respected and impactful organization and look forward to contributing to your important work.

Tips for Creating a Winning Cover Letter for an NGO Job

When applying for a job in an NGO, your cover letter plays a crucial role in convincing the employer that you are the best fit for the position. Here are some tips to help you create a winning cover letter that highlights your strengths and qualifications:

  • Do Your Research : Before writing the cover letter, research the organization’s mission, vision, and values. Show the organization that you have done your homework and are committed to their cause.
  • Highlight Relevant Experience : As with any job application, it’s important to highlight relevant experience that matches the requirements of the position. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements in related areas.
  • Show Your Passion : Working for an NGO is more than just a job, it’s a calling. Use your cover letter to show your passion and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
  • Customize the Letter : Avoid sending generic cover letters to multiple organizations. Take the time to customize the cover letter to the specific job and organization you are applying for.
  • Show Your Soft Skills : NGOs require individuals with strong communication, interpersonal, and team skills. Use examples from your previous experiences to showcase your abilities in these areas.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise, focusing on your strengths and differentiators. Use clear language and a professional tone to demonstrate that you are the best fit for the position.

Cover Letter Template for NGO Job FAQs What should be the format of a cover letter for an NGO job?

The format of a cover letter for an NGO job should follow a standard business letter format with appropriate salutation, introduction, body paragraphs highlighting relevant qualifications, and a closing paragraph that reiterates your interest in the position.

What are some tips for writing an effective cover letter for an NGO job?

Tips for writing an effective cover letter for an NGO job include tailoring the letter to the specific job and organization, highlighting relevant experience and skills, avoiding buzzwords and jargon, and proofreading for errors.

How long should a cover letter for an NGO job be?

A cover letter for an NGO job should be no longer than one page. It should be concise and highlight key qualifications in a compelling manner.

What should I include in the introduction of my cover letter for an NGO job?

The introduction of your cover letter for an NGO job should include a brief statement indicating your interest in the position and how you learned about it. It should also provide a clear and concise overview of your qualifications and skills relevant to the job.

How can I make my cover letter stand out for an NGO job?

To make your cover letter stand out for an NGO job, tailor the letter to the specific job and organization, use clear and concise language, highlight relevant experience and skills, and show enthusiasm and passion for the cause or mission of the NGO.

Should I mention my salary expectations in my cover letter for an NGO job?

No, you should not mention your salary expectations in your cover letter for an NGO job. If the job posting specifically requests this information, you can include it in your application, but it is generally not appropriate to mention in the cover letter.

What should I include in the closing paragraph of my cover letter for an NGO job?

The closing paragraph of your cover letter for an NGO job should reiterate your interest in the position and thank the reader for considering your application. You should also include information on how they can contact you and your availability for an interview.

Ready to Land That Dream NGO Job?

Well, there you have it – your ultimate guide to crafting the perfect cover letter for an NGO job. We hope these templates and tips have given you the confidence to put your best foot forward and secure an interview. Remember, the key is to show your passion, dedication, and alignment with the organization’s mission. Thanks for reading, and don’t hesitate to check back for more job search advice! Good luck on your journey!

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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.

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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.

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Sample Email Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position

cover letter for volunteer in ngo

  • Tips for Writing a Volunteer Cover Letter

Drafting Your Cover Letter

Sample letter for a volunteer position, emailing your cover letter.

If you're looking to volunteer, you likely know it involves donating your time, effort, and service. While most volunteer roles are unpaid, applicants looking to make a difference and gain valuable experience should consider sending an email message inquiring about such opportunities.

In some cases, volunteer roles can be competitive, so sending a cover letter can help you stand out. Plus, the time required to train and supervise volunteers is precious to these often short-staffed organizations.

Candidates who can show they have relevant experience or demonstrate that they're likely to volunteer for a long period (not just drop in for a single afternoon) will be appealing to the organization. 

As with a paid position, you'll want to use your cover letter to show why you're a good fit for the role. Get tips for what to write when you want to volunteer and see an example of a cover letter sent to inquire about volunteer opportunities. 

Tips for Writing a Volunteer Cover Letter 

Cover letters for volunteering written to organizations are an effective way to indicate your interest in a specific volunteer position, as well as to describe how your skills, experiences, and background can better the lives of others.

Like cover letters written for paid employment, those written for volunteer positions are most effective when they can highlight exactly how closely your background and interests fit the qualifications a group is looking for in its volunteers.

Like many paid jobs, organizations with volunteer positions available will often—but not always—publicly list the job openings they are looking to fill. Review these positions to find potential matches and understand their requirements. If there isn't a position listed at an organization, you can write a  letter of interest , letting the organization know that you are interested in volunteering there. 

Although volunteer opportunities are usually unpaid, the employer may still require certain qualifications for an applicant to be eligible. For instance, volunteers at an animal shelter may need experience working with pets. Other volunteer roles may call for a valid driver's license, experience with office administration, good phone manners, and so on. 

As in any cover letter, you'll want to highlight your most relevant skills, experience, and qualifications. 

Before you begin drafting your cover letter, be sure to  research the organization . Familiarizing yourself with the organization, its culture, and its mission can make you a stronger, more prepared candidate. In your letter, you'll be able to explain  why  you're interested in volunteering at the organization. 

Plus, learning about its operations may reveal that its values and mission are vastly different from your objectives—a sign that you should perhaps look for another organization to which you can contribute your time and labor.

Volunteering opportunities are not always listed by an organization’s human resources department, so make sure you research who to contact and how best to reach them.

When writing a cover letter for a volunteer position, mention your related work or volunteer experience, if applicable. Keep your cover letter professional, just like you would if you were applying for paid employment. For all you know, your volunteer position could ultimately turn into a job or full-time employment.

Utilize this time to market yourself to the organization. This cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself and your intentions right off the bat. When drafting the letter, be sure to describe your interest in the position as well as your relevant experience and background.

Provide examples of how you embody the organization’s mission statement, values, and core principles. In addition to your cover letter, include your  resume . You may also want to include letters of recommendation written by  personal or professional references  who can describe and attest to your experience and skills.

This is an example of a cover letter for a volunteer position. Download the volunteer position cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or see below for more examples.

Sample Letter for a Volunteer Position (Text Version)

Barry Applicant 123 Any Street Anytown, CT 11112 555-124-1245 barry.applicant@gmail.com

July 30, 2024

John Lee Volunteer Manager St. John Senior Center 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321 

Dear Mr. Lee,

I am interested in opportunities that may be available to volunteer at the St. John Senior Center. As a long-time advocate of the needs and welfare of the elderly in our community, I have experience working with senior citizens and would be thrilled to continue to do so in a volunteer capacity.

I volunteered as an aide at the Champlain Center and enjoyed being able to help senior citizens with arts and crafts. In this position, I assisted program participants with recreational projects, contributed to program planning and strategy sessions, and accompanied group field trips to local musical events and museums. I also participated in fundraising and community outreach initiatives.

If the St. John Center needs a dedicated volunteer, I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you. My schedule is flexible, and I would be available to volunteer at your convenience.

Eager to learn more about your mission, successes, and challenges in serving our senior citizens, I would be grateful for the opportunity to interview with you at a mutually convenient time. I look forward to speaking with you.

Thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Barry Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

Barry Applicant

You can either send your cover letter as an email attachment , or you can send it in the body of the email message with your resume . Be sure to include your name in the subject line of the email:

Subject: Your Name - Volunteer Application

Additional Sample Cover Letters

The most effective format for cover letters can vary depending on the opportunities they are targeting. Review cover letter samples for a variety of career fields and employment levels, including an internship cover letter sample, as well as targeted and email cover letters.

Key Takeaways

  • When applying for volunteer positions, crafting a well-written cover letter can help highlight your relevant experience and demonstrate your commitment, making you a more appealing candidate.
  • Researching the organization and tailoring your cover letter to align with its mission and values can strengthen your application and ensure a good fit.
  • Even though volunteer positions are typically unpaid, it's important to treat the application process professionally. Who knows—it could potentially lead to future employment opportunities.

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.

Volunteer cover letter

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:

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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.

Community Organizer Resume Example

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Status.net

3 Inspiring Nonprofit Cover Letter Examples

By Status.net Editorial Team on February 14, 2024 — 8 minutes to read

The nonprofit sector includes organizations that are neither part of the government nor operated for profit. When you interact with nonprofits, you’re looking at a diverse group with missions ranging from education and health to environmental conservation and the arts.

Nonprofits are typically funded by donations, grants, and membership dues and are driven by a mission to serve the public. Unlike for-profit businesses, they reinvest any surplus revenues back into their programs and services. This structure means that your passion and alignment with the organization’s mission can often be just as important as your professional skills.

When writing a cover letter for a job in the nonprofit sector, it’s important to highlight both your professional abilities and your dedication to the cause. This could include volunteer experience, board memberships, or simply a strong personal connection to the mission of the organization.

Crafting Your Cover Letter

A stellar cover letter grabs attention by aligning your skills and passion with the nonprofit’s mission and the job at hand. Here’s how you can craft one that stands out.

Analyzing the Job Description

Start by thoroughly reading the job posting to understand what the nonprofit is looking for. Identify keywords and phrases related to skills, experiences, and values. You can use these to tailor your cover letter to demonstrate you’re a perfect fit for the role. For example, if “community outreach” is a frequently mentioned phrase, highlight your experience in this area.

Knowing Your Audience

Research the organization to get a sense of its culture and values. Use this insight to talk directly to the nonprofit’s needs and show you’ve done your homework. For instance, if the organization values innovation, you can mention a time you implemented a new process or project.

Personalizing Your Introduction

Begin with a compelling opening sentence that introduces you and your interest in the organization. A personal story or a connection to the cause can make your cover letter memorable. For example: “Seeing the impact of your homeless outreach inspired me to apply.”

Outlining Your Relevant Experience

In bullet points, list the experiences that directly relate to the job. Explain how each experience has prepared you for the specific responsibilities of the role. For example, if you’re applying to be a grant writer, list success stories of past grants you’ve secured.

Demonstrating Your Passion for the Cause

Let your enthusiasm for the work shine through by sharing why the mission matters to you. Relate personal experiences or achievements that show your commitment. For example: “Volunteering with (…) initiative confirmed my dedication to environmental advocacy.”

Concluding with a Strong Finish

End with a confident and polite closing that invites further conversation. Express excitement about the prospect of contributing to the team and the cause. For example:”I am eager to bring my experience in nonprofit management to your esteemed team and am looking forward to discussing how I can support your goals.”

Formatting Your Cover Letter

Structuring your document.

Your cover letter should have a clear structure with an introduction, body, and closing. In the introduction, briefly mention the job you’re applying for and your enthusiasm about the mission of the nonprofit. The body of the letter should consist of one to two paragraphs where you highlight your relevant experience and achievements. Finally, end your letter with a strong closing statement, expressing your desire to discuss how you can contribute to the organization.

Choosing the Right Font and Size

You should select a professional and easy-to-read font such as Arial or Times New Roman. Your font size should be between 10 to 12 points to ensure readability. Keep margins at standard 1-inch on all sides to present a tidy page, and use single spacing within paragraphs with a blank line between each paragraph.

Templates and Examples

Crafting a personalized cover letter can greatly increase your chances of landing a job interview in the nonprofit sector. Here, you’ll find templates specifically designed for various levels of experience, whether you’re just starting out, have years of professional experience, or are transitioning to the nonprofit world.

Entry-Level Nonprofit Cover Letter Example

If you’re fresh in the workforce and eager to contribute to a cause, your cover letter should highlight your volunteer experiences and the skills you’ve gained from them. Remember, you’re telling a story about why you’re passionate about the nonprofit’s mission.

Example: Subject: Application for the Position of Community Outreach Coordinator

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I recently graduated with a degree in Social Work and found great purpose in my volunteer work with [Local Nonprofit Organization], where I deepened my understanding of community engagement and developed strong organizational skills. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my dedication and fresh perspective to [Nonprofit’s Name] as your next Community Outreach Coordinator.

Experienced Professional Cover Letter Example

For you, as someone with substantial experience, your cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate how your track record can translate into success for the nonprofit. Be specific about your achievements and how they align with the values and goals of the organization.

Example: Subject: Application for Senior Program Manager Position

With over 10 years of program management experience, notably with [Previous Nonprofit], I significantly increased program efficiency by 20% and spearheaded a fundraising campaign that raised over $100,000. My commitment to fostering community growth and empowering diverse groups aligns seamlessly with the mission of [Nonprofit’s Name]. I am excited to bring my expertise and innovative strategies to your team as the Senior Program Manager.

Career Change to Nonprofit Sector Cover Letter Example

Your cover letter should reflect a clear, genuine reason for shifting to the nonprofit sector. Draw parallels between your past experiences and how these can benefit the organization. It’s important to show that your skills are transferable and that your passion for the mission is a driving force behind your career change.

Example: Subject: Application for the Role of Advocacy Coordinator

After a successful decade in the legal sector, I am ready to apply my expertise in advocacy and policy analysis to make a meaningful impact in the nonprofit realm. My experience winning complex legal battles translates well to the tenacious approach needed as an Advocacy Coordinator with [Nonprofit’s Name]. I am passionate about your mission and eager to contribute to your team with fresh strategies and a strong commitment to social change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When crafting your nonprofit cover letter, ensure you don’t make these common errors:

  • Neglecting Customization: Each nonprofit has its unique mission and values. Remember to tailor your cover letter to each organization’s specific ethos. A generic cover letter can imply a lack of genuine interest.
  • Overlooking Details: Always double-check for typos, grammatical errors, and incorrect information. These mistakes can suggest you lack attention to detail or professionalism.
  • Repeating Your Resume: Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it. Use this space to expand on your experiences and explain how they align with the nonprofit’s goals.
  • Being Too Lengthy: Keep your cover letter concise. Aim for a maximum of one page. Your goal is to maintain the reader’s interest with a clear and brief message.
  • Skipping the Thank-You: End your cover letter by expressing gratitude for the consideration. It’s a simple but powerful way to show your appreciation and courtesy.

Best Practices for Follow-Up

After you’ve submitted your nonprofit cover letter, effectively following up can make a significant difference in how your application is perceived. Post-submission, it’s important to remain engaged and show your continued interest in the position.

Monitoring Your Email and Voicemail

Regularly check your email and voicemail for any responses or further instructions from the nonprofit organization. Promptness in your response conveys your eagerness and professionalism.

Being Proactive with Hiring Managers

If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, don’t hesitate to reach out. A courteous email inquiring about the status of your application demonstrates initiative, but remember to be respectful of the hiring manager’s time. Related: Get More Interviews: Follow Up on Job Applications (Templates)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components to include in a cover letter for a nonprofit position.

In your nonprofit cover letter, you should include your passion for the mission of the organization, specific examples of your past achievements, and how they align with the goals of the nonprofit. Highlight your teamwork and communication skills, and don’t forget to mention any volunteer experience.

How can someone with no experience approach writing a cover letter for a nonprofit job?

If you’re lacking experience, focus on your transferable skills such as organization, enthusiasm, and the ability to learn quickly. Share your understanding of the nonprofit’s mission and express how your personal values align with it. You might discuss relevant coursework or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment.

What’s the ideal length for a cover letter when applying to a nonprofit organization?

Your cover letter should be concise, ideally one page, with no more than three to four paragraphs. This shows that you can communicate effectively and respect the reader’s time, which is important in the fast-paced nonprofit sector.

Could you provide tips on formatting a compelling cover letter for NGO job applications?

Use a professional and readable font size, typically between 10-12 points, and keep the margins to about one inch on all sides. Align your text to the left and use bullet points to make achievements stand out. Ensure your layout has plenty of white space for easy readability.

In what ways can a program coordinator cover letter be tailored to highlight relevant skills for a nonprofit role?

Your program coordinator cover letter should demonstrate your project management skills, ability to work with diverse groups, and experience in organizing events or campaigns. Mention any successful programs you’ve run or contributed to and how they have made a positive impact.

What are some effective strategies for enhancing my cover letter when applying for jobs in the nonprofit sector?

Personalize your cover letter by addressing it to an individual rather than using a generic salutation. Use the job description to guide you in highlighting the most relevant experiences and skills you have. Use stories and examples that you think will resonate with the organization’s culture and mission.

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Community Volunteer Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Julia Gergelova — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

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

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

Community Food Project Worker Resume Sample

Continue reading to learn how to:

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

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

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

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

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

This information includes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are 3 examples of personalized community volunteer cover letter greetings

Dear Head Volunteer Rachel Harris,

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

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

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

A cover letter introduction should include:

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

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

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

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4. How to showcase your qualifications as a community volunteer

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. How to conclude your community volunteer cover letter effectively

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

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

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

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

With Sincerity,

[Applicant Name]

6. The best job search resources for community volunteers

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

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

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

Community Volunteer Cover Letter FAQ

What should i include in my community volunteer cover letter.

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

How can I tailor my community volunteer cover letter for each position?

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

How long should my community volunteer cover letter be?

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

Why is a cover letter needed for a volunteer role?

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

Do I need different cover letters for different volunteer roles?

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

Julia Gergelova — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) and an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC™). She is also a passionate translator and graphic designer. Julia holds degrees in translation and interpretation and has international work experience in various countries across Europe, as well as in China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and contributed as a graphic designer to outlets such as The Business of Business. You'll often find her with a book in one hand and a specialty coffee in the other, always on the lookout for new insights.

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Related community volunteer resume examples.

Community Health Worker at Vanderburgh County Health Department Resume

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How to Write a Cover Letter for Volunteer Work

Ready to volunteer? If you're looking to gain experience or simply want to help others, there's a high chance you'll need a volunteering cover letter.

Joanna Zambas

Joanna Zambas

Content Manager and Career Expert

Reviewed by Hayley Ramsey

Volunteer working with children with an overlay of a covering letter

Volunteering can add valuable experience and skills to your résumé, especially if you’re fresh out of education or changing occupation. That said, it can be hard to bag the perfect volunteer role. To help you, we'll walk you through all the steps you need to take to write an impressive cover letter to help you grab the attention of the recruiter.

What to include in a volunteer cover letter

As with any formal document or a regular cover letter, you need to follow a professional format. Below we’ve listed the correct formatting rules, structure and layout to ensure you impress the reader.

Your name and address

Your name and address should be written at the top right-hand corner of the page. In American English, the sender's address can sometimes be found in the top-left corner, so be sure to alter your template according to your location.

The date should appear a few lines below the letterhead — avoid this part if your request is via email.

The addressee’s name and address

A space should be left between the date and the addressee’s name and address. Regardless of your location, this should appear on the left-hand side of the page. If your letter is via email, skip this step and add a ‘subject line’.

Any formal letter should start with a formal greeting. A good way of making an impression is to use their name. For example, you could open with ‘Dear Ms Smith’. If you can’t find the hiring manager's name anywhere, writing ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ is acceptable.

Introduction

The introduction is the perfect chance to market yourself and capture the recruiter’s attention. Open the letter by sharing your interest in the position and explain how and why you would be a good fit for the position by using a short example.

Within the body, go into further detail by explaining why you’d be perfect for the volunteering position . You could mention skills that you have that will benefit the work, relevant work experience or your educational background. If your previous jobs are not directly relevant to the role, then mention your employment history as a way to highlight your specific strengths as a volunteer. You may want to focus on your work ethic, your dedication to your current or former employers, and any transferable skills that could be relevant to the position you're applying for.

Close the letter by mentioning how much it would mean to you if you were selected to be part of the team. Inform them of how excited you are about the position and how you look forward to hearing from them soon.

Conclude with ‘Yours sincerely’, followed by your full name and signature. If you’re sending this via email, simply use your name and contact information.

Tips for writing a volunteer cover letter

To help you write a better cover letter, follow these handy tips:

Do your research

Before any job application, it’s important to do your research and find out all you can about the company. Have a clear understanding of the organisation’s goals and what the role entails. This will ensure that you are a genuinely good fit for the role. Besides researching the company, find out who is handling the hiring, so you know who to address your letter to.

Define your goals

After doing your research, you should know what the company's mission statement is, which will help you define your goals and align them to the goals of the organisation that you’re applying to. For example, if you’re applying to teach English abroad, explain how you are a great listener and educator who wants to help others develop their knowledge and skills.

Keep it short

The space on the page should be used wisely — don’t fill up two pages with unnecessary information. It’s important to keep your cover letter short and sweet, highlighting only essential details and facts that show off your skills, abilities and experience. Save your stories for the interview , where you can further elaborate on your experiences in the workplace.

Proofread your letter

Be sure to proofread your letter and look for any typos, misspelt words, grammatical and punctuation errors. You could even use a proofreading application like Grammarly that will do the work for you, or ask a trusted friend to skim their eyes over it and offer any corrections.

If you send off an application for volunteer work with sloppy errors, chances are you won’t get the opportunity, as you’ll have come across as unprofessional through your letter.

Match your résumé's design

With a high volume of applications, hiring managers will be looking for someone with an edge, so why not match your cover letter to your résumé template’s design? It’ll show that you’ve gone the extra mile to create professional documents.

To help you, we’ve created the ideal résumé templates bundle , which offers a range of reliable templates along with our job search application checklist.

Volunteer cover letter example

Here's a sample letter requesting volunteer work.

Volunteer Request Letter

If you’re applying via email, you could follow this template:

Mrs Jane Smith 123 street name City, County Postcode

Dear Mr Crane,

I came across the volunteer opening at the Red Cross, and I was instantly excited at the opportunity to volunteer for such a prestigious organisation. Over the last 10 years, I’ve worked as a nurse in private and public institutions. I would love the opportunity to give back to the world and work for a cause that is close to my heart.

A lot of people take nursing for granted. However, I see it as a role that can positively impact someone’s health and offer guidance. In the last decade, I have nursed sick children back to health, worked in a maternity ward and in a busy accident and emergency department. I would be grateful if I could offer these resources to children whose parents don’t have the funds for good healthcare. I have the experience of working in busy and demanding environments. Besides this, I have travelled to different countries already and have great interpersonal skills that will make my new patients feel comfortable.

As you can see, I’m extremely passionate about this role and believe I have valuable skills and experience that can benefit the cause that you’re working for. I hope that our goals align so we can offer the very best service to Third World countries that require the support.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch so we can schedule an interview. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Name] [Your Number] [email protected]

Final thoughts

Volunteer work not only adds credibility to your résumé but also gives you an opportunity to explore different cultures, learn new skills and gain valuable experience, so it’s important to create an impressive cover letter and résumé to ensure that you get the position.

Have you volunteered for a company recently? Did you write a letter similar to this that was successful? Let us know your thoughts and comments below.

This article is an updated version of an earlier article originally published on 23 October 2017.

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Volunteer cover letter example

Volunteer cover letter example

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting, cover letter introduction, cover letter body, how to close a volunteer cover letter (conclusion & sign-off).

What’s the difference between a successful job application for a volunteer and someone pursuing a paid position? Actually, there isn’t much at all — an answer you may find surprising. With so many volunteer positions based on heart and passion for the role, an exceptional volunteer cover letter can give you an advantage over other applicants who haven’t included one. 

No matter what form of volunteering you’ve decided to pursue, we’re here to help you create an interview-winning cover letter. With 300+ writing guides and occupation-specific cover letter examples, Resume.io is a resource for candidates in all fields and at all experience levels. This writing guide, backed by volunteering cover letter example, will cover these topics:

  • The best format for structuring a cover letter
  • How each cover letter section conveys you’re an ideal volunteer job fit: header, greeting, introduction, body and conclusion
  • Writing psychology to persuade recruiters that you’re a lucky find for the volunteer workforce
  • Common cover letter mistakes to avoid.

The job market for volunteers is recession-proof and guaranteed to never dry up for any reason, anywhere on the planet. Consider these facts posted by TRVST , an organization championing global change-making initiatives. 

  • The number of volunteers worldwide — over 1 billion — exceeds the number of unemployed people in six out of 10 of the most populous countries.
  • The efforts of volunteers worldwide are equal to 109 million full-time workers.
  • Approximately 25% of the U.S. adult population are volunteers, declining from 28% between 2003 and 2005.

Best format for a volunteer cover letter

Your volunteer cover letter should be structured exactly the same way as it would be for a paid job opportunity in the same field. These are the sections to include:

  • Cover letter closing.

The overall guidelines for reader-friendliness are also the same. 

  • Keep it short — no more than a single page, and 400 words maximum.
  • Make it eye-pleasing in a professionally polished sense — clean and streamlined, with ample white space.
  • Readability takes precedence when choosing fonts and non-distracting design elements.

Here is an adaptable volunteer cover letter example that you can customize for the position and hiring organization:

Dear Mr. Sonnenheim, | am writing as an aspiring soccer coach to see whether there is an opportunity to volunteer at the Boston Cubs? Having played soccer since I was 13, I had to curtail my playing career last year due to injury and would love to give back to the game during my sports science degree. I have no formal coaching experience; but would be keen to take on my first coaching qualifications alongside the volunteer work. A friend of mine helped out last year and he said that you are open to such arrangements. I have worked with the 11-16 age group previously at summer camps and I enjoy helping kids make the most of their potential and love watching them challenge themselves. I have a solid understanding of the tactics of soccer, but realize that much of the initial work will be organizational and logistical. I am a qualified minivan driver and was a treasurer for my college theater group, so hopefully I have other skills that may come in useful for the club. Due to my previous work with schoolchildren, I have all recent background checks and can share 35+ positive references from parents and participants. I live ten minutes walk away from your training ground and have watched the kids play every now and again on my weekend strolls. They all seem to have so much fun and I would love to be a part of that journey for them. I would relish the opportunity to come along and discuss what else I might be able to contribute to the Cubs. Sincerely, Bridgette Cole

The header lends off-the-top importance to your volunteer cover letter’s overall goal — to attract favorable attention leading to a job interview. It serves two key purposes:

  • Readily identifies who you are and how the recruiter can contact you for an interview.
  • Visually sets your volunteer application apart from countless others that may be overwhelming busy recruiters.

A matching pair Recruiters in a volunteer-dependent organization may sometimes be stretched to their multi-tasking limit, and perhaps frazzled when poring over job applications. A visually matched resume and cover letter pair can be a sight for sore eyes. 

The small bit of extra effort it takes to make these documents look like they belong together could ensure both get more than a passing glance.

Goal of the cover letter header: Set yourself apart from possibly hundreds of other volunteer job applicants with a visually distinctive identifier and contact information.

Volunteer job applicants may have an advantage when it comes to knowing who their cover letter greeting should address. They’ve likely shown initiative in exploring opportunities of interest and determined the requirements to apply, including recruiter contact information. Or, they may already have firsthand knowledge and connections without having to do research.

In any case, do address your cover letter to someone by name if possible. The positive psychological impact is well established. Otherwise, there’s no need to overthink the salutation: “Dear <Mr.> or <Ms.> Surname” is never outdated. Sometimes, the less formal “Hello,” “Greetings” or “Hi” is fine instead of “Dear.” Only use a first name greeting if you know the recipient personally. 

If you are unable to find out the recipient’s name, fashion a warmer alternative to “To Whom It May Concern.” Try “Dear <Organization Name> Volunteer Hiring Team” or something similar.

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Start off by directly addressing the person responsible for recruiting volunteers in a warm but professional manner.

Dear Mr. Sonnenheim,

Your volunteer cover letter introduction is pivotal to forming a connection with the reader. It’s where your passion, personality and purpose start shining through.   Volunteer recruiters will naturally expect you to start highlighting your most relevant strengths and background experience right away. And you absolutely should — especially emphasizing your people skills up front. But the biggest wow factor comes from revealing your “why.” Why do you care about this organization or charitable cause? What’s driving your desire to give? If there’s a personal, close-to-home reason, share that. This motivational insight should answer the recruiter’s foremost “how” question: How will your volunteer efforts help us if we give you this opportunity?

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Appeal to the specific needs of the organization or cause by conveying how your volunteering efforts will be of benefit.

Here’s an introduction idea from our volunteer letter sample:

I am writing as an aspiring soccer coach to see whether there is an opportunity to volunteer at Boston Cubs? I had played soccer since I was 13, but had to curtail my playing career last year due to injury and would love to give back to the game during my sports science degree.

Again, the same advice for writing the middle section (known as the body) of any job search cover letter applies when you are seeking a volunteer role. Focus on what the volunteer job requirements are and why your background is a good fit. 

Whether your previous experience has been professional or in other volunteer capacities is less important than its relevance to this particular volunteer job. Elaborate on achievements and the transferable skills brought to bear — especially soft skills. Cite relatable facts and figures such as target-beating fundraising totals or special event attendance. And by all means, share an anecdote or two that the reader can relate to on a personal level.

Goal of the cover letter body: Instill confidence in your sense of dedication and desire to contribute as a volunteer, based on relevant background experience.

This volunteer cover letter sample illustrates what you might include in the middle part:

I have no formal coaching experience; but would be keen to take on my first coaching qualifications alongside the volunteer work. A friend of mine helped out last year and he said that you are open to such arrangements. I have worked with the 11-16 age group previously at summer camps and I enjoy helping kids make the most of their potential and love watching them challenge themselves. I have a solid understanding of the tactics of soccer, but realize that much of the initial work will be organizational and logistical. I am a qualified minivan driver and was a treasurer for my college theater group, so hopefully I have other skills that may come in useful for the club. Due to my previous work with schoolchildren, I have all recent background checks and can share 35+ positive references from parents and participants. I live ten minutes walk away from your training ground and have watched the kids play every now and again on my weekend strolls. They all seem to have so much fun and I would love to be a part of that journey for them.

Like any cover letter, yours should end with a note of thanks for the recruiter’s interest and a concluding remark about your potential assets as a hired volunteer. Sound optimistic with the hope of hearing back soon; perhaps take that call to action a step further by asking if an interview can be arranged.  In addition, be sure to stipulate when you are available to volunteer and how much time you can commit. Specify the best way to reach you by repeating the phone number or email address shown in the header.

Finally, simply sign off with “Sincerely,” Best regards,” or “Best,” above your name. 

Aim of the cover letter closing: End with an upbeat call to action, ideally resulting in an interview, along with information about your volunteer availability.

Below is the closing section of our volunteer letter example.

I would relish the opportunity to come along and discuss what else I might be able to contribute to the Cubs. Sincerely, Bridgette Cole

Writing psychology

Reversing the roles is actually a useful way to look at the persuasive goal of any cover letter, whether you are applying for a paid position or a volunteer job. Put yourself behind the recruiter’s desk. Imagine routinely receiving dozens of submissions every week from volunteer hopefuls, compared with a salaried job vacancy generating a finite number of applications within a closed timeframe. 

Consider the added burden of proof that a volunteer cover letter carries when it comes to motivations compelling enough for the reader to pay serious attention. And never assume that qualified willing volunteers are in such short supply that organizations, out of desperation, will take anyone who steps forward. 

It goes without saying that most volunteer applications are “voluntary,” so recruiters are curious about the underlying reasons — typically to gain work experience, develop skills or give back to the community. Besides wanting to know your volunteer goals and whether the position is a good mutual fit, the cover letter reader needs a good sense of your potential value to the team and how long your commitment will last.

If your volunteer job application is not actually “voluntary” — that is, it’s a requirement for school, work or some other purpose — consider ways to reframe this information in your cover letter without being deceptive. Try to avoid casting doubt about whether your interest in the opportunity and desire to help are genuine. 

Common cover letter mistakes to avoid

Avoiding the most common cover letter pitfalls will ensure your volunteer appeal hits the mark. 

  • A generic cover letter is like pretending you can clone yourself for multiple volunteer stints simultaneously.
  • A “what’s in it for me” focus will turn off recruiters interested in how your volunteer contributions will help their organization or cause.
  • Meaningless clichés and redundant word bloat waste valuable page space and the reader’s precious time.
  • Without insights to your personality, passion and purpose, recruiters have no sense of what drives your giving intentions or how well you get along with others.
  • Typos, spelling mistakes and grammatical goofs are a warning that your involvement might cause more work for others — fellow volunteers and paid staff alike.
  • Design and formatting flaws can be perceived as a disregard for the organization’s identity, image and values, but a cover letter template can help you avoid these mistakes.

Key takeaways for a volunteer cover letter

  • Despite the absence of financial compensation for volunteer work, the job application approach is remarkably similar, including the importance of an outstanding cover letter.
  • Infinitely available volunteer opportunities allow for mutually ideal matches to be made, so each volunteer cover letter calls for a customized approach.
  • Cover letters are designed to reflect your personality and purpose to a greater extent than resumes allow, which volunteer recruiters are keenly interested in.
  • A visually attractive and error-proof cover letter speaks to your professionalism, work ethic and attention to detail. See how this is done in our volunteer cover letter sample.

For more inspiration, check out our other related resume examples:

  • Support worker cover letter sample
  • Social worker cover letter sample
  • Youth worker cover letter example
  • Career change cover letter sample
  • Non-profit cover letter example

Free professionally designed templates

Cover Letters and Resume Samples

Community Volunteer Cover Letter Sample

Working as a community volunteer teaches you a lot about fundraising, and community outreach work. At this position, it is essential that you know at least some basics of volunteer work.

And for a hiring manager to discover you as a possible candidate, you must highlight your knowledge of community outreach work in a cover letter.

Essentially, your community volunteer cover letter should highlight the fact that you know about creating and implementing outreach programs.

The ability to contribute as an effective part of the organization should be highlighted in your cover letter.

Additionally, your knowledge of supporting the day-to-day work of a charity, or NGO should be emphasized in your cover letter.

Moreover, a community volunteer’s cover letter should focus on the applicant’s ability to meet the needs of people involved in the program.

Community Volunteer Cover Letter Page Image

  • Community Volunteer Resume Sample

Here is how you can write a cover letter for this position:

Sample Cover Letter for Community Volunteer Position

Sean Wayne (000) 120-3211 [email protected]

August 17, 2021

Mr. Bobby Vincent Human Resources Manager Habitat for Humanity 9421 Needs Road Newark, NJ 68702

Dear Mr. Vincent:

I am writing this letter to express my interest in the Community Volunteer role which you have advertised in the newspaper. I believe that I am fully qualified for this position, and possess an inherent will to make a difference. My resume details my background in providing volunteer services for different causes.

A dependable and resourceful individual, I offer well-rounded skills in creating and implementing outreach programs. Possessing a reputation for “getting the work done”, I am positive that I will be a great asset to you.

To be precise, I offer the following skills:

  • Assisting with the day to day care of community and events fundraising activities.
  • Organizing fundraising and outreach events, in accordance with program requirements.
  • Researching new developments and competitors within assigned sectors.
  • Promoting the organization’s policies and regulations, as they relate to community outreach.

Besides this, I am well-versed in maintaining efficient office procedures, particularly with respect to record-keeping and filing. My ability to prioritize and organize work processes is quite superior, and I am able to go the extra mile to get the work done.

I am sure that my background suits your requirements perfectly, which is why I feel that we should meet in person. I look forward to hearing from you soon at (000) 120-3211.

  • 2 Community Outreach Coordinator Cover Letter Samples
  • Community Outreach Coordinator Resume: 2 Samples [+Job Description]
  • Food Bank Volunteer Cover Letter Sample

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Home » Letters » Request Letters » Letter for Volunteering in NGO – Sample Volunteer Letter To NGO

Letter for Volunteering in NGO – Sample Volunteer Letter To NGO

cover letter for volunteer in ngo

Table of Contents:

  • Sample Letter

Live Editing Assistance

How to use live assistant, additional template options, download options, share via email, share via whatsapp, copy to clipboard, print letter, sample letter for volunteering work in ngo.

To, The _________ (HR Manager/Director), ______________ (Name of the NGO), ______________ (Address)

Date: __/__/____ (Date)

From, _____________ (Name of the Applicant), _____________ (Address)

Subject: Volunteering work in NGO

Respected Sir/Madam,

This is to bring in your kind notice, that my name is ______________ (Name of the applicant) and I reside at ____________ (Address). I have heard a lot regarding the flourishing works of your NGO. I am ___________ (Profession) by profession and I wish to be a part of your growing institution. _________ (Mention the reasons for joining the NGO)

I am attaching my resume for your kind reference. I would like to state that this step taken by me are not for my financial growth, but for my personal growth.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Thankfully/Faithfully, ____________ (Name of the Applicant), ____________ (Address), ____________ (Contact details)

Enclosed: Resume

Live Preview

The Live Assistant feature is represented by a real-time preview functionality. Here’s how to use it:

  • Start Typing: Enter your letter content in the "Letter Input" textarea.
  • Live Preview: As you type, the content of your letter will be displayed in the "Live Preview" section below the textarea. This feature converts newline characters in the textarea into <br> tags in HTML for better readability.

The letter writing editor allows you to start with predefined templates for drafting your letters:

  • Choose a Template: Click one of the template buttons ("Start with Sample Template 1", "Start with Sample Template 2", or "Start with Sample Template 3").
  • Auto-Fill Textarea: The chosen template's content will automatically fill the textarea, which you can then modify or use as is.

Click the "Download Letter" button after composing your letter. This triggers a download of a file containing the content of your letter.

Click the "Share via Email" button after composing your letter. Your default email client will open a new message window with the subject "Sharing My Draft Letter" and the content of your letter in the body.

Click the "Share via WhatsApp" button after you've composed your letter. Your default browser will open a new tab prompting you to send the letter as a message to a contact on WhatsApp.

If you want to copy the text of your letter to the clipboard:

  • Copy to Clipboard: Click the "Copy to Clipboard" button after composing your letter.
  • Paste Anywhere: You can then paste the copied text anywhere you need, such as into another application or document.

For printing the letter directly from the browser:

  • Print Letter: Click the "Print Letter" button after composing your letter.
  • Print Preview: A new browser window will open showing your letter formatted for printing.
  • Print: Use the print dialog in the browser to complete printing.
  • You can use generic titles such as "HR Manager" or "Director" followed by the name of the NGO.
  • While not mandatory, attaching a resume provides the recipient with more information about your background and skills, which can enhance your application.
  • Focus on highlighting relevant skills, experiences, and a genuine passion for the NGO's cause in your letter.
  • Yes, demonstrating familiarity with the NGO's work and expressing a desire to contribute to specific projects or programs can strengthen your application.
  • Yes, it's acceptable to follow up with the NGO after a reasonable period to inquire about the status of your application and express continued interest in volunteering.

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COMMENTS

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  5. Volunteering Cover Letter Samples & Examples 2024

    Here is an example of a persuasive volunteer cover letter. I am deeply appreciative to your team for taking the time to review my application and hope to join the ranks of your fantastic volunteer organization soon. You may reach me any weekday between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (123) 456-7890, or on weekends at [email protected]. ...

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    Here's an example of a cover letter written for a volunteer position. Sample Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position (Text Version) Brady Applicant. 123 Main Street. Anytown, CA 12345. 555-555-5555. [email protected]. May 4, 2021. Jackson Lee.

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    Volunteers should include the following elements in a cover letter: 1. Personal Information: Start with your name, address, contact number, and email address at the top of the letter. 2. Salutation: Address the letter to the appropriate person, if possible.

  8. NGO Cover Letter (Ultimate Guide)

    A good length for an NGO cover letter is between 350 and 500 words. Make sure you write in font size 12. This means your cover letter will come out at about three quarters of a page. This is a good length as it allows you to include enough key details, without being too long to lose the NGO recruiters attention.

  9. 5 Effective Cover Letter Templates for NGO Jobs

    Sample 1: Applying for a Program Manager Position. Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to apply for the Program Manager position at [NGO name]. With my extensive experience in program management and working with vulnerable populations, I am confident in my ability to make a positive contribution to your organization.

  10. Volunteer Cover Letter Examples

    Your cover letter offers a prime opportunity to showcase your dedication to community service and careful approach to every task — essential qualities for any volunteer. Surprisingly, a significant majority of recruiters value cover letters highly when selecting volunteers. This is your chance to stand out. Step 1.

  11. Writing Effective Volunteer Cover Letters (With Sample)

    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 ...

  12. Volunteer Cover Letter Example & Writing Guide

    773-499-3635. [email protected]. That was a great example of a volunteering cover letter. Read on to see just how you can write one just like this. See our other support-based writing guides here: Non Profit Cover Letter Sample. Social Work Cover Letter Sample. Teacher Cover Letter Sample.

  13. Sample Email Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position

    Alison Doyle. Updated on June 7, 2024. In This Article. Tips for Writing a Volunteer Cover Letter. Drafting Your Cover Letter. Sample Letter for a Volunteer Position. Emailing Your Cover Letter. Photo: Ariel Skelley / Getty Images. @ The Balance 2020.

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    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.

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    This could include volunteer experience, board memberships, or simply a strong personal connection to the mission of the organization. ... Could you provide tips on formatting a compelling cover letter for NGO job applications? Use a professional and readable font size, typically between 10-12 points, and keep the margins to about one inch on ...

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    Crafting a standout community volunteer cover letter is a crucial step towards making a meaningful contribution to your community. As a community volunteer, your role can span from securing local neighborhoods to lending a hand at public parks. It's a role that requires a blend of skill, dedication, and that special spark of community spirit.

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    1. Relate it to the job at hand. Before you write about your volunteer work, determine its relevance to the position. Glenn Lucas, a veteran office manager who reviews hundreds of resumes and cover letters each year, notes that he does not waste time considering candidates who detail irrelevant experience of any kind.

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    Greetings. Any formal letter should start with a formal greeting. A good way of making an impression is to use their name. For example, you could open with 'Dear Ms Smith'. If you can't find the hiring manager's name anywhere, writing 'Dear Sir/Madam' is acceptable.

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    Volunteer cover letter example. Use this Volunteer cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast - no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Volunteer positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes. 4.4.

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