volunteer work application letter

Sample Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position

Mary McLain / The Balance

• Cover Letters
• Skills & Keywords
• Salary & Benefits
• Letters & Emails
• Job Listings
• Job Interviews
• Career Advice
• Work-From-Home Jobs
• Internships

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.

• Marketing Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips
• Sample Cover Letters for a Career Office Job Posting
• Sample Email Message Formats for Job Searching
• Sample Professional Letter Formats
• Email Etiquette Tips for Job Seekers
• Business Letter Format With Examples
• Cover Letter With a Referral From an Employee Example
• Job Interview Thank-You Letter Template
• Professional Letter and Email Examples
• Types of Professional Business Letters
• Thank-You Letter to Send After an Interview Sample
• Writing a Cover Letter to a Talent Agency
• Finance Internship Cover Letter Example
• Software Developer Cover Letter and Resume Example
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Samples
• Sample Cover Letter for a School Position

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Cover Letters

Sample Email Cover Letter for a Volunteer Position

• 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 that 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 and/or demonstrate that they're likely to volunteer for a long period of time (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/or 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 to 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, a good phone manner, 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.

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, 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, 2020 

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 upon the opportunities they are targeting. Review cover letter samples for a variety of career fields and employment levels, including an internship cover letter sample, entry-level, targeted and email cover letters.

Privacy preference center

We care about your privacy

When you visit our website, we will use cookies to make sure you enjoy your stay. We respect your privacy and we’ll never share your resumes and cover letters with recruiters or job sites. On the other hand, we’re using several third party tools to help us run our website with all its functionality.

But what exactly are cookies? Cookies are small bits of information which get stored on your computer. This information usually isn’t enough to directly identify you, but it allows us to deliver a page tailored to your particular needs and preferences.

Because we really care about your right to privacy, we give you a lot of control over which cookies we use in your sessions. Click on the different category headings on the left to find out more, and change our default settings.

However, remember that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of our website. Finally, note that we’ll need to use a cookie to remember your cookie preferences.

Without these cookies our website wouldn’t function and they cannot be switched off. We need them to provide services that you’ve asked for.

Want an example? We use these cookies when you sign in to Kickresume. We also use them to remember things you’ve already done, like text you’ve entered into a registration form so it’ll be there when you go back to the page in the same session.

Thanks to these cookies, we can count visits and traffic sources to our pages. This allows us to measure and improve the performance of our website and provide you with content you’ll find interesting.

Performance cookies let us see which pages are the most and least popular, and how you and other visitors move around the site.

All information these cookies collect is aggregated (it’s a statistic) and therefore completely anonymous. If you don’t let us use these cookies, you’ll leave us in the dark a bit, as we won’t be able to give you the content you may like.

We use these cookies to uniquely identify your browser and internet device. Thanks to them, we and our partners can build a profile of your interests, and target you with discounts to our service and specialized content.

On the other hand, these cookies allow some companies target you with advertising on other sites. This is to provide you with advertising that you might find interesting, rather than with a series of irrelevant ads you don’t care about.

Volunteering Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Writing a volunteering cover letter may seem daunting at first, but with our straightforward guide, it becomes a manageable task.

Brimming with actionable tips, real-world examples, and insightful advice, we'll help you navigate this important aspect of your volunteering journey. Let's together turn your passion for service into a compelling narrative.

Keep reading to learn about:

• Crafting your volunteering cover letter header and headline
• Tailoring the content and greeting of your volunteering cover letter
• Creating a compelling cover letter introduction as a volunteer
• Showing off your relevant skills and accomplishments as a volunteer
• Persuading a volunteer organizer to contact you with your conclusion
• Accessing useful job search resources for volunteers

1. How to write an effective volunteering cover letter header and headline

A cover letter header and headline refer to the first two elements found at the top of the page.

These elements serve two key purposes — they give your cover letter much-needed visual structure and they provide the volunteer organizer with the necessary introductory information about who you are and why you have written this cover letter.

Your cover letter header always comes first, placed in either the top left or top center of the page. In this header, a volunteer organizer should find:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name of the company or organization where you wish to volunteer

Here's an example of a well-formatted volunteer cover letter header

Madison Jones , Animal Care Volunteer (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/madison-jones

To: McKendall Animal Center 1234 Street Address Salem, MA 97301

Next, you will write your cover letter headline.

When applying for a paid position, this headline is used to convince the employer you have the top qualifications needed for the job. For a volunteer cover letter, comparatively, your headline should convey your passion for and commitment to the position.

To write a cover letter headline, include:

• A relevant keyword (such as the specific type of volunteering you will be doing)
• A number or trigger word that conveys a qualification
• An adjective and/or verb that conveys your dedication
• A personalized statement that shows this is an exclusively written cover letter

Here's an example of a great volunteer cover letter headline

My Top 3 Reasons for Volunteering in Animal Care & How It Will Benefit Your Shelter

Trigger word/Number: 3 Reasons Keyword: Volunteering in Animal Care Adjective/Verb: Top, Benefit Personalized statement: Your Shelter

Try our AI Resume Writer and have your resume ready in minutes!

2. how to tailor the content and greeting of your volunteering cover letter.

When writing a volunteering cover letter, your primary goal is to convey why you want to volunteer at the specific company or organization you are applying to.

To do this, it's essential to personalize not just your headline but also the content and greeting of your cover letter . Personalizing a cover letter means you must read up on the company or organization before applying, looking for key information about their values, goals, and needs.

As well as including this information throughout the body text of your cover letter, you should also use it to create a personalized greeting that addresses a specific person by name, such as the volunteer organizer.

Here are 3 examples of personalized volunteer cover letter greetings

Dear Head Volunteer Joe Smith,

• Dear Volunteer Organizer Joe Smith,
• Dear Mr. Joe Smith,

3. How to create an eye-catching cover letter introduction as a volunteer

When writing a volunteer cover letter, you will have many opportunities to explain your passion for acts of service and the skills that make you a great volunteer.

However, in your introduction, you should place special focus on your top qualifications and years of experience . This can also include any specialized areas of expertise you possess, which can be especially important if you are applying for a volunteer role that requires a specific skill set, such as child care.

Here is an example of a compelling introduction from a volunteer cover letter

I am a highly experienced volunteer with specialized experience working with homeless and mentally disabled youth. With more than 8 years of experience working in community youth centers, I bring the skills, compassion, and commitment your organization needs to continue supporting kids of all backgrounds in the local community. My employer, Ms. Harriet Leonard, is a current volunteer with your organization and strongly recommended I apply for this position.

Find out your resume score!

4. How to show off your relevant skills and accomplishments as a volunteer

Working as a volunteer can require a diverse skillset that allows you to communicate effectively and work well within a team.

As you describe your skills, accomplishments, and various qualifications as a volunteer, it is crucial to make sure all the details you include are highly relevant, specific to the role, and quantifiable (whenever possible). This will help you to show the volunteer organizer your commitment to the role, as well as the key reasons why you are a great fit for the position.

Here are 6 skills to describe in a volunteer cover letter

• Communication (describe your specific communication style)
• Problem-solving
• Leadership (describe your specific leadership style)
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Time management

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

As a volunteer for the American Red Cross, I helped to organize the nurse workstations and keep them well-stocked with supplies. After working diligently over 48 hours to design the optimal donation set-up, my team and I were able to boost the efficiency of donations, resulting in 25% more donations per day of the blood drive.

5. How to craft a persuasive volunteer cover letter conclusion

The final act of your cover letter writing process is to write a persuasive conclusion that lets the volunteer organizer know how to best contact you.

Make sure to not only reiterate your contact information but to also provide the best times and days on which you can be reached.

Additionally, always include a formal sign-off to show the proper respect and appreciation to the person reading your cover letter.

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]. I hope to hear from you by next Wednesday and plan to follow up that afternoon if I have yet to hear back.

Yours in Service,

[Applicant Name]

If you have ever wondered how a cover letter differs from a resume, this article will tell you everything about the key differences between the two .

6. Useful job search resources for volunteers

Navigating the vast sea of volunteering opportunities becomes easier with the right online platforms. Here are a few key websites to kick start your search:

• Idealist : A global site known for its extensive list of volunteer opportunities across various causes.
• VolunteerMatch : This platform bridges the gap between willing volunteers and non-profit organizations that need help. Their robust filtering system makes searching for the right opportunity a breeze.
• HandsOn Network : Associated with Points of Light, it offers volunteering opportunities in multiple countries, making it an excellent resource for those looking abroad.
• All for Good :  Powered by Points of Light, it allows you to customize your search based on your interests and location.
• DoSomething : A platform particularly appealing to young volunteers, offering a range of different causes to support.
• Catchafire : This resource is perfect for professionals who want to offer their skills for pro-bono work.

Don't forget the power of local resources, too - local community centers, places of worship, or even your nearest non-profit organizations might have volunteering opportunities accessible right in your backyard.

Volunteering Cover Letter FAQ

Yes, it's best to maintain a professional tone in your volunteering cover letter. However, it's also important to let your passion and dedication shine through, as these qualities are especially valued in volunteer work.

Absolutely! Focus on the skills you do have and how they relate to the volunteer position. Be sure to emphasize your willingness to learn.

Explicitly mention this in your cover letter. It shows proactiveness to gain and utilize skills, even when you're not employed.

Highlight the transferable skills between your past experiences and the volunteer opportunity. Also, emphasize your interest in the field you're volunteering in and why it matters to you.

A polite follow-up email or call can demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment. However, remember to respect the organization's process and give them ample time to respond before reaching out.

Julia Gergelova

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

Subcategories

• Community Volunteer
• Refugee Volunteer

All volunteering cover letter examples

Related volunteering resume examples

Let your resume do the work.

Join 5,000,000 job seekers worldwide and get hired faster with your best resume yet.

Write Compelling Volunteer Cover Letters: Samples Included

If you’re interested in volunteering, there are several things you have to do, one of which is learning how to write volunteer cover letters. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know to write volunteer cover letters and top it off with some samples to help you write the best ones. 

What Is a Volunteer Cover Letter?

Like a regular job application, a volunteer letter explains your motives for volunteering for the organization. This letter contains everything the organization would need to know to work with you. 

A volunteer letter includes but isn’t limited to your volunteer experience, character, and why you’re interested in volunteering. 

Important Traits to Include in Your Volunteer Letter

There are several reasons to be interested in volunteering, you may want to broaden your working experience, give back to the community or help a cause you believe in. Regardless of your motives, there are specific traits you must have that make you a desirable volunteer. 

In this section of this article, we will discuss the most important traits organizations look out for when approving volunteer applications. 

How to Write a Remote Job Cover Letter and Samples

While this might sound cliché, passion is one of the most important traits non-profit organizations look out for when deciding on volunteers. 

Being passionate about the cause directly influences how motivated you are to help. Passionate people often go the extra mile when it comes to volunteering. And with non-profits, going the extra mile is almost always a necessity. 

Volunteering is rarely a one-man affair. As a result, your ability to work well with a team ranks high on the list of to-have skills. 

To be a great volunteer, you must be comfortable working in a team, whether as a leader or a subordinate. Being a team player helps the organization achieve its aim faster and increases the chances of success. 

• Positive attitude and mindset

While volunteering, many things are bound to go sideways, and you may be pushed out of your comfort zone. Your ability to maintain a positive outlook, remain calm and handle these situations exemplarily, makes you a valuable volunteer. 

This goes without saying, but compassion is one of the most important traits you must have to volunteer. This is one of the traits that seeps into everything that makes you a great volunteer. 

Being compassionate means you believe in the cause and the change you’re trying to impact. This helps you go the extra mile whenever needed. Again, this is one of the most important traits you can have. 

• Organization

As much as we’d like them to, things do not always go by the book, and things slip through the cracks. Being organized mitigates the damage and helps you and everyone. Being organized helps you stay ahead of tasks and directly speaks to your efficiency. 

This word gets thrown around a lot, but your ability to think outside the box will be useful when you’re volunteering. Your creativity will help you think of solutions where there don’t appear to be any. 

All of the traits listed here are non-negotiable if you hope to be a great volunteer. 

8 Common Challenges of Working Remotely and Their Solutions

Steps to Write a Volunteer Cover Letter

When writing volunteer letters, there are steps you must follow to ensure your letter covers all bases. These steps will be discussed in this section of this letter. 

• Express your interest: When writing your letter, you must express interest in the position you’re applying for. To increase your chances of acceptance, your interest must be personalized and tailored to the organization and the role. 
• Include relevant credentials or experiences : Much like a regular job application, relevant experiences increase your chances of getting the volunteer position. If you don’t have any experience volunteering with an organization, you can include any volunteer experience. If you have none, the best option is to sell them on your passion.
• Explain your schedule and availability: If you are available whenever they need you, state this in your letter. If you’re only available during weekends or specific days, state this as well. 

How to Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile as a Student to Get Jobs

How to Write a Volunteer Cover Letter

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write effective cover letters:

• Your contact information

Your contact information should be on the top left corner of your cover letter. It should begin with your name, address, and phone number. If you’re sending a physical letter, include your phone number and email address as well. 

• Opening salutations

Volunteer cover letters are professional letters and, as such, must follow professional letter etiquette. Your letter should begin with a professional salutation, such as, ”Dear Mr./Ms. last name”  If you don’t know the name of the person you’re emailing, your salutation can be addressed to the organization. 

• Introductions

The introduction of your letter should briefly state who you are, what you do, and why you’re interested in the position. You don’t have to go in-depth about your experience in this section, save that for the body of your letter. 

If you were referred, ensure to state the name of the person that referred you in the first paragraph. 

The body of your letter is easily the most important part of your letter and should comprise your relevant experience, your education, and your skills. 

If you have any relevant experience, state them in the body of your letter. Be as descriptive as you can about your involvement and achievements.  If you held any major role or had great results, include these in your letter. 

It is not unusual for organizations to have educational requirements for their volunteers. So, ensure to list all your educational qualifications. If you held any leadership positions or contributed to extracurriculars, also state that in the letter. 

We’ve listed some of the most important skills you must have in the section above. Ensure to mention them in this section of your letter.  

The closing of your letter should thank the recipient for their time and reiterate your experience and passion for volunteering. After that, end the letter with warm regards by saying you’re looking forward to their response. 

Your signoff should be professional. An example is “Kind Regards,” “Sincerely,” etc. Your letter should end with your full name and contact information. 

Volunteer Letter Template One

Volunteer letter sample one, volunteer cover letter sample two.

This article includes everything you need to know about writing volunteer cover letters. When sending your email, ensure you include your contact information. 

About The Author

Jim Blessed

Related posts.

9 Tips You Need to Write and Respond to Emails Professionally

12 Rules of Writing Emails Professionally and Effectively

How to Write Professional Emails: 7 Critical Ingredients

8 Simple Lessons for Writing Irresistible Business to Business Emails

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Volunteer Cover Letter Example

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

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

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

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

Related Cover Letters for Volunteer

Church volunteer cover letter.

Community Volunteer Cover Letter

School Volunteer Cover Letter

Student Volunteer Cover Letter

Community Involvement Cover Letter

Counselor Cover Letter

Mental Health Counselor Cover Letter

Strategy Consultant Cover Letter

Related Resumes for Volunteer

Church volunteer resume example.

Community Volunteer Resume Example

School volunteer resume example, student volunteer resume example, community involvement resume example, counselor resume example.

Mental Health Counselor Resume Example

Strategy consultant resume example.

Try our AI-Powered Resume Builder

All Formats

11+ Sample Job Application Letters for Volunteers

Volunteer letter work is a noble endeavor. In soup kitchens, we hear motivational stories from war veterans and down-on-their-luck individuals. In doing schoolyard work as part of a nonprofit template, we help make a social statement by building the environments in which the minds of future leaders, teachers, and nation builders are molded.

Volunteer Application Letter Template

• Google Docs

Free Volunteering Application Letter Sample

Application Letter For Volunteer Work in Word

Volunteering Application Letter Template

Application Letter For Volunteer Work In Hospital Template

Application For Volunteering Template

Sample Letter Requesting Volunteer Work

How to Write An Application Letter for a Volunteer Job:

• Keep your letter professional – Although you are applying for a volunteer job, it is still imperative to write the letter in the same manner as you are applying for a paid position.
• Format your letter – A properly formatted application letter design can help you look professional and perfect for the position.
• Address the letter to the recipient’s appropriate title – If ever no contact person is listed in the job posting, a great strategy to get away with is to use a subject line instead of a formal salutation.
• Introduce yourself, explain your interest and how you are the perfect candidate for the position – Let us take for example you are volunteering to tutor children. You can express your interest in teaching children along with your academic experience as a teacher.
• Wrap it up by giving details on the specifics of what you are able to commit – You should provide the hiring party how much time you can allocate each week. Your availability is a crucial factor that helps determine whether you are the one who they think is perfect for the job.
• Write a professional closing – Before you send your application letter, it is important to formally thank the recipient for his time and consideration. You can also use formal closings, such as “Best Regards,” “Sincerely Yours,” and “Warm Regards.”

Example Of Volunteer Application Letter

Application For Voluntary Service

Volunteering Application Letter Sample PDF Free Download

Job Work Application Letter for Volunteer with Experience

Final Thoughts:

More in letters, job separation letter, job application letter for accountant assistant, application introduction letter, job application executive letter, partnership application letter, management job application letter, management application letter, visa application letter to embassy, letter of endorsement for grant application, application letter for funding support.

• FREE 26+ Covid-19 Letter Templates in PDF | MS Word | Google Docs
• Thank You Letter for Appreciation – 19+ Free Word, Excel, PDF Format Download!
• 69+ Resignation Letter Templates – Word, PDF, IPages
• 12+ Letter of Introduction Templates – PDF, DOC
• 14+ Nurse Resignation Letter Templates – Word, PDF
• 16+ Sample Adoption Reference Letter Templates
• 10+ Sample Work Reference Letters
• 28+ Invitation Letter Templates
• 19+ Rental Termination Letter Templates – Free Sample, Example Format Download!
• 23+ Retirement Letter Templates – Word, PDF
• 12+ Thank You Letters for Your Service – PDF, DOC
• 12+ Job Appointment Letter Templates – Google DOC, PDF, Apple Pages
• 21+ Professional Resignation Letter Templates – PDF, DOC
• 14+ Training Acknowledgement Letter Templates
• 49+ Job Application Form Templates

Writing Effective Volunteer Cover Letters (With Sample)

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

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

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

Sample Volunteer Cover Letter Template

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

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

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

Best Practices for Volunteer Application Letters

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

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

Sending a Letter Requesting Volunteer Work

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

• Sponsorships
• Where to Find

Flint’s Sister City Togliatti, Russia: GM Town

Founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956, Sister Cities International is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) non-profit which serves as the national membership organization for individual sister cities, counties and states across the United States. Eisenhower’s goal with establishing this organization was to create a network of peace and prosperity between different people around the world. Since his time, Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton and Obama have served as the honorary chairmen.

According to SisterCities.org, this network unites tens of thousands of “citizen diplomats” and volunteers in 570 member communities with over 2,300 partnerships in 150 countries on six continents. A sister city, county or state relationship is a broad-based, long-term partnership between two communities in two countries. A sister city, county or state relationship is officially recognized after the highest elected or appointed official from both communities signs an agreement, which is focused on mutual benefit.

Early on, partnerships have been created with Seattle, WA and Tokyo, Japan, to repair post-World War II tensions. SCI has improved diplomatic relationships at watershed moments for the past 50 years.

Overall, the organization is a hub for best practices in the field of “citizen diplomacy,” meaning that those citizens who are involved become diplomats for SCI and the city they represent. As a whole, the organization focuses on the exchange in arts and culture, youth and education, business and trade, and community development and technical exchange.

In the past, Flint has been a Sister City to Changchun, Jilin Province, China; Faislabad, Pakistan; and Kielce, Świętokrzysie Voivodeship, Poland. More recently, Flint has an existing relationship with Poltava, Ukraine, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and Togliatti, Samara Oblast, Russia.

At 22 years, Hamilton, Canada is Flint’s oldest Sister City due to their 52-year CANUSA sport exchange. In addition to the annual sport competition, they have also participated in tree-planting on Flint City Hall property.

Although the Flint chapter has been inactive the past couple of years due to a lack of resources, Larry Ford, the current president, had visited Russia in 1991 – the same year that the Soviet Union disintegrated. Before Sister Cities, Ford was President/CEO of the then Flint Area Chamber of Commerce for 30 years. “My mission was to find business that could come here, or find investment opportunities over there,” Ford explains. What Ford and past Sister Cities President, John Freeman, found with their initial visit to Russia as an eventual Sister City, was that they were continually trying to disprove local propaganda of Americans and changing Cold War mindsets. Part of their mission to promote understanding was to create new opportunities for relationships, such as a Rotary Club, which ended up being one of their successful ventures, along with personal friendships, and professional liaisons.

And of course, with Flint’s chapter, General Motors had been a negotiating point – a common ground – established around the same time as their separate Sister Cities Agreement.

In Russia, 600 miles south of Moscow, an auto-producing town, Togliatti, created a joint venture with GM in 2001. Starting in 2002 at the Togliatti factory, 50,000 GM-AvtoVaz Chevrolet Nivas were produced annually. And despite GM’s bankruptcy, by 2015, they were producing 120,000 annually and increased their staff by 1,400 – nearly doubling in size. In September of 2012, GM and AvtoVaz turned the joint venture into a 50/50 relationship due to a $200 million plant expansion. The Chevrolet Niva, a $14,000 sport-utility vehicle for the Russian market, had been consistently on three-month-long waiting lists, and had been exported to Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Latin America.

The initial concept of the Niva began in 1976-77, when AvtoVaz began making a crossover utility vehicle that appeared to be the first of its kind in the world; but, the dissolving of the Soviet Union in 1991 put the plans on hold. This is when GM stepped in with $100 million and a new design to incorporate the Chevrolet logo. GM gave $99 million for equipment, AvtoVaz gave property and equipment (worth $99 million), and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development gave $40 million.

A group of people involved with Sister Cities Flint traveled to Togliatti to attend the grand opening of the Chevrolet Niva plant, including GM Chairman of the Board John Smith, and other top dignitaries. At the time, this was GM’s first major investment in Russia. Subsequently, the most modern GM factory in the world is in St. Petersburg, Russia.

As part of their “Agreement on Friendship and Cooperation” – a contract – one of the main clauses explains the Sister Cities relationship: “We believe the expansion of friendship and cooperation between the residents of Flint and Togliatti in various areas of social and economic life […] According to these principals, the city authorities both in Flint and in Togliatti are taking responsibility for the development of close links and for an active exchange of tourist groups, including youth, sportsmen, doctors, teachers, journalists, artists, representatives of the municipalities, and other public and state organizations.”

The Flint-Togliatti Agreement was signed in September 1991 by Igor Antonov, a chairman for the City Soviet of the People’s; Boris Mikel, Chairman of the City Executive Committee; and Matthew S. Collier, who was Mayor of the City of Flint at the time. The documents are printed in both English and Russian.

Freeman’s and Ford’s hope for the future of the Sister Cities organization in Flint is to bring the new administration up to speed with what they are doing, so they can continue the organization’s mission of promoting peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation – one individual, one community at a time.

SOURCES: “GM Russian Car Venture is Pleasant Surprise.” Wall Street Journal. Oct. 31, 2012. “First Chevy-Niva Rolls Out of Tolyatti.” GM-Avtovaz.ru. Sept. 24, 2002. SisterCitiesInternational.org

Related Posts

7 Questions with… Vanita Wilson, MA, LPC Counselor, Genesee Intermediate School District

Xceptional Heroes A Common Bond

2024 Black History Month Honorees

Comments are closed.

We are Hiring .

Join our Dynamic Team

ACCUMALUX Group, an independent group established in Luxembourg since 1976, with affiliates in Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Russia is still expanding. Leader in the field of plastic injection molding for production of high tech automotive and industrial batteries, ACCUMALUX Group is looking for qualified and motivated new talents.

Acting honestly and ethically Being fair and trustworthy

Treating people with courtesy and dignity Being understanding and supporting

Achieving more together by working as a team, listening and involving others

Fostering people well-being and development, learning and continuous improvement

OPEN POSITIONS

APPLICATION FORM

• News & Media
• Press Releases
• Linde @ Social Media

Linde to build large ammonia plant in Russia

Corporate News

Formation of joint venture with JSC KuibyshevAzot

On-site project with total investment volume of around EUR 275 million

Deal further strengthens Linde’s position in fast-growing Russian market

Munich, 28 May 2013 – The technology company The Linde Group has formed a joint venture with chemical company JSC KuibyshevAzot to build and operate a large ammonia plant at the Togliatti site in Russia's Samara region. Both partners signed an agreement to this effect on 27 May 2013. The deal will involve a total investment volume of around EUR 275 million. Both companies have an equal stake in the newly formed venture, Linde Nitrogen Togliatti.

"We are proud to team up with our partner to support further expansion of the Togliatti industrial hub," said Professor Dr Aldo Belloni, Member of the Executive Board of Linde AG. "This project not only strengthens our presence in Samara, but also our position as the leading gases and engineering company in the fast-growing Russian market."

The Engineering Division of The Linde Group will construct the new, state-of-the-art on-site plant, designed to deliver exceptional levels of energy efficiency. The plant will have a production capacity of 1,340 tonnes of ammonia per day (tpd). Construction work is scheduled for completion in 2016.

JSC KuibyshevAzot, one of the biggest chemical companies in Russia, plans to expand Togliatti production capacity for caprolactam – a precursor of polyamide plastics – and nitrogen fertilizers. It will need a rising stream of ammonia to support these growth plans.

About The Linde Group

The Linde Group is a world-leading gases and engineering company with around 62,000 employees in more than 100 countries worldwide. In the 2012 financial year, Linde generated revenue of EUR 15.280 bn. The strategy of the Group is geared towards long-term profitable growth and focuses on the expansion of its international business with forward-looking products and services. Linde acts responsibly towards its shareholders, business partners, employees, society and the environment – in every one of its business areas, regions and locations across the globe. The company is committed to technologies and products that unite the goals of customer value and sustainable development.

For more information, see The Linde Group online at www.linde.com

Further information: