Writing a volunteer cover letter differs from writing a standard cover letter that goes with a resume and job application. Because you are not applying for a specific job, but rather volunteering your time, you should explain why you want to volunteer, what experience you have, and what you hope to gain from it. Naturally, you should state what you hope to accomplish for the organization and why your services would be beneficial. Most nonprofits are eager to welcome volunteers, but applicants must show responsibility and the ability to behave appropriately in the workplace.
It’s critical to personalize your volunteer cover letter for each organization. You’ve probably chosen an organization based on your interests or education, which you’ll want to mention in your cover letter. Making it clear why you want to volunteer, whether it’s to help animals in shelters, clean up the environment, or mentor children, can make it more likely that the organization will accept your application. You’ll want to share information about your specific skills in addition to your interests.
Any nonprofit organization will require volunteers to help with a variety of tasks. Depending on the nature of the organization, this may involve hands-on work or office work. In a volunteer cover letter, almost everyone has some skills they can highlight. For example, if you are good with people, you could raise money soliciting donations. If you have office experience, you could help manage or organize an office or answer phones; if you have writing skills or previous nonprofit experience, you could help with newsletter creation or grant writing. In your cover letter, be creative and enthusiastic.
In the volunteer cover letter, however, do not lie or exaggerate your experience. If you want to learn something from the organization, let them know; many nonprofits are happy to teach willing volunteers new skills. You should also include the amount of daily or weekly time you have to devote to the organization. Even if you are not required to show up for work, it is poor form to commit to a certain amount of time with an organization and then fail to show up. Thank the person who reads the letter for their time, and let them know if and when you’ll contact them again to discuss the volunteer opportunity.