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How to write a volunteer cover letter

There are various motivations to explore volunteer opportunities. Working as a volunteer may help people advance their careers, expand their networks, and contribute to their communities. Knowing how to create a formal volunteer cover letter is crucial if you want to seek a volunteer opportunity. In this post, we'll outline what to put in a volunteer cover letter and provide a volunteer cover letter example.

Tips for writing a volunteer cover letter

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A cover letter for a volunteer position is a letter that accompanies your application and expresses your interest in and suitability for the volunteer role. Here are some steps you can follow to write a volunteer cover letter;

  1. Start by addressing the letter to a specific person, rather than using a generic salutation such as "To Whom it May Concern." If you don't have a contact name, try to find out to who the letter should be addressed by calling the organization or checking their website.
  2. In the first paragraph, explain why you are interested in the volunteer position and how you learned about it.
  3. In the second paragraph, highlight the relevant skills and experiences that make you a good fit for the position. This could include previous volunteer work, related coursework, or other relevant skills or experiences.
  4. In the third paragraph, explain why you are passionate about the organization's mission and how you would like to contribute to their work as a volunteer.
  5. End the letter by thanking the reader for considering your application and expressing your availability for an interview or further discussion.
  6. Remember to keep the tone of your letter professional and positive, and review it for spelling and grammar mistakes.

Things to consider when writing a volunteer cover letter

Here are some things to consider when writing a volunteer cover letter:

  1. Make sure to address the letter to the correct person or organization.
  2. Clearly state the position you are applying for and how you learned about it.
  3. Explain why you are interested in volunteering and what skills and experience you have that make you a good fit for the position.
  4. Emphasize any relevant skills or experiences you have, such as previous volunteer work or relevant coursework.
  5. Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications and commitment to volunteering.
  6. Keep the tone of the letter professional, but also show enthusiasm for the opportunity to volunteer.
  7. Edit and proofread your letter carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and written.
  8. Close the letter by expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to apply and stating that you are available for an interview.

Overall, the goal of a volunteer cover letter is to demonstrate your passion for the cause and your commitment to making a positive impact through volunteering.

Other resources on volunteer, volunteer resume samplehow to write a volunteer resumevolunteer skills for resume and cover letter.

Do's and don't of volunteer cover letter

DO
  1. Address the letter to the correct person or organization.
  2. Clearly state the position you are applying for and how you learned about it.
  3. Explain why you are interested in volunteering and what skills and experience you have that make you a good fit for the position.
  4. Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications and commitment to volunteering.
  5. Keep the tone of the letter professional, but also show enthusiasm for the opportunity to volunteer.
  6. Edit and proofread your letter carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and written.
  7. Close the letter by expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to apply and stating that you are available for an interview.
DON'T
  1. Use a generic or poorly written cover letter. The letter should be tailored to the specific organization and position you are applying for.
  2. Use a casual or unprofessional tone.
  3. Include irrelevant information or make exaggerated claims about your qualifications.
  4. Neglect to proofread your letter for errors or typos.
  5. Fail to express appreciation for the opportunity to apply and state that you are available for an interview.

Pointers for writing a volunteer cover letter

Writing a volunteer cover letter can be a bit different than writing a traditional job cover letter, as you may not have paid work experience to highlight. However, there are still many ways to make your cover letter stand out and showcase your skills and passion for the cause you are volunteering for. Here are some pointers to consider when writing a volunteer cover letter:

  1. Start by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in volunteering for this particular organization. You can mention any relevant skills or experiences that you have that make you a good fit for the role.
  2. Outline your relevant skills and experiences that make you a good fit for the role. This could include any prior volunteer work you have done, as well as any relevant education or training you have received.
  3. Emphasize your passion for the cause and why you are motivated to volunteer. This can help show that you are truly committed to making a difference and are not just looking for a resume booster.
  4. Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Volunteer organizations often receive a high volume of applications, so it's important to make a strong impression quickly.
  5. Edit and proofread your cover letter carefully to ensure that it is free of errors. A well-written cover letter can make a strong impression on the reader and increase your chances of being selected as a volunteer.

Overall, the most important thing to remember when writing a volunteer cover letter is to be genuine and passionate about the cause. By highlighting your relevant skills and experiences and explaining why you are motivated to volunteer, you can convince the organization that you are the right person for the role.

Volunteer Cover Letter Example

Dear Employer,

I am applying for the job of volunteer at the Kids Summer Camp Center. I have a significant amount of experience working with kids, so the prospect of being a volunteer counselor excites me considerably.

At Westwood Elementary School in New Hampshire, I served as a teacher's aide and had fun assisting the pupils with their in-class assignments. As a teacher's assistant, I was in charge of organizing classroom assignments, giving the kids one-on-one teaching sessions, and going on field trips with the class. Because I enjoyed being outside and participating in sports with the children, my shift as the recess supervisor was my favorite part of the job.

I was a lifeguard at a neighborhood sports center last year. I received first aid instruction along with CPR certification. I also helped out with teaching swimming classes to kids from 3 to 13 years old.

I would be glad to fill the role if you are looking for volunteer counselors for one of the Kids Summer Camp Centers. My talents and expertise would enable me a worthwhile addition to your team, in my opinion. I also believe that by volunteering, I will be able to obtain more experience in the subject of early childhood education, which is what I intend to pursue when I start college the following year.

Sincerely,

Jenna Jones

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