Volunteering is a selfless act of dedicating your time, skills and energy towards a cause or organization without expecting any financial or other tangible benefits in return. It is a way of giving back to the community, helping others and contributing towards an improved and healthier society.

Volunteering is not a new concept, but it has gained increased popularity over the years, with more and more people recognizing its importance and benefits. According to a report by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, volunteering has risen by 20.7 million individuals since 1989, with an estimated 63 million Americans volunteering their time and resources towards various causes in 2018 alone.

Volunteering can have a significant impact on an individual’s personal and professional growth, making it an integral part of their overall success. Below are some reasons why volunteering is essential, and how it can benefit you in the long run.

Definition of Volunteering

As mentioned earlier, volunteering is an act of giving your time and expertise towards a cause without expecting any tangible benefits. It is a form of social service which can be carried out in different ways, such as helping at a local shelter, organizing fundraisers for charity, mentoring children, or supporting a community initiative.

Volunteering can be done individually, or as part of a group or organization. It can be a one-time activity or an ongoing commitment, depending on your availability and preferences.

Importance of Volunteering

Volunteering can have several personal, social, and professional benefits, making it a crucial part of an individual’s success. Below are some reasons why volunteering is essential:

1. Personal Growth

Volunteering provides an opportunity to develop new skills, learn about new cultures, and gain real-world experience, all of which can contribute to your personal growth. It can also boost your self-esteem, build your confidence, and help you establish a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Volunteering provides an excellent platform to interact with people from different backgrounds and build meaningful relationships. It can also help you establish a sense of belonging and community, which can contribute to your mental health and overall well-being.

3. Professional Development

Volunteering can help you gain new skills and experience, which can enhance your resume and make you more attractive to potential employers. It can also provide an opportunity to network with professionals in your field, explore new career opportunities, and enhance your professional reputation.

Volunteering is a selfless act of giving back to the community, making it an essential part of an individual’s overall success. Whether it is for personal growth, social interaction, or professional development, volunteering can have several benefits that can contribute to your long-term success.

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering offers numerous benefits to individuals who dedicate their time and efforts to help their community. These benefits come in two forms–personal and professional.

Personal Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering allows individuals to work towards a good cause and help improve the lives of others. It gives individuals a sense of fulfillment, a feeling of contributing and helping to make a difference in the world. Seeing the positive impact of their volunteer work can boost confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment.

Moreover, volunteering can provide an opportunity for personal growth and development. It offers an occasion to learn new skills or hone existing ones. Volunteers can take advantage of training programs, workshops, and career development opportunities that can enhance their abilities and knowledge.

Volunteering also introduces individuals to diverse people and cultures, providing opportunities to improve communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. By working in various community events, volunteers can extend their social network while nurturing meaningful relationships.

Professional Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering can also provide numerous professional benefits in addition to personal ones. For instance, serving as a volunteer enables individuals to develop new skills or refine existing ones that they can use in their professional work. Volunteer work demonstrates a person’s dedication, commitments, and passion to potential employers, adding values to their resumes.

Volunteering also contributes to personal and professional networking, providing an opportunity to expand their social circles and to connect with influential people. As volunteers interact with people from diverse backgrounds, they can learn more about different cultures, points of view, and gain relevant insights.

Moreover, volunteering offers a chance to acquire new experiences that are directly or indirectly related to their professional work. Such experiences can lead to improving their current skills set, broadening their knowledge base, and expanding their expertise.

Volunteering not only benefits the communities and individuals supported but also offers numerous advantages for personal and professional growth. Participating in volunteer work and community service can provide valuable experience, skills, and networking opportunities that can assist individuals in their present and future careers. A strong resume showcasing your volunteering work not only highlights your interests but also demonstrates your commitment to making a difference.

Ways to Volunteer

Volunteering is not just about helping others, it is also about gaining valuable experience and enhancing your resume. There are many ways to volunteer, and you are sure to find an opportunity that suits your interests and skills. Here are three ways to volunteer:

Local Opportunities

Local volunteering opportunities can be found in your community or by using volunteer search engines such as VolunteerMatch, All for Good or Idealist. Organizations that often need volunteers include schools, hospitals, museums, animal shelters, and non-profit organizations. Local volunteering not only allows you to give back to your community, but it also helps you learn more about your community, connect with others, and develop new skills. Some of the skills you can develop while local volunteering include communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Volunteering can also help improve your overall well-being, making it a win-win situation.

Virtual Opportunities

Virtual volunteering is any volunteer work that can be done remotely using a computer, phone or tablet. Virtual volunteering has increased in popularity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual volunteering allows volunteers to work from anywhere in the world, offering more opportunities than with traditional volunteering. Virtual volunteering not only helps organizations save money, but it can also help you develop your skills, including writing, research, and communication. Many virtual volunteer opportunities include social media management, graphic design, event planning, and data entry. Virtual volunteering is a great way to volunteer if you have limited time, live far away from volunteering opportunities or if you prefer to work from home.

International Opportunities

International volunteering can offer a unique experience to volunteers. It allows you to experience different cultures and learn new languages while helping those in need. International volunteering is a great way to add international experience to your resume, which can be a valuable asset in today’s global economy. Many international volunteering opportunities include teaching, environmental conservation, construction, and health care. Before you commit to an international volunteer opportunity, it is essential to research the organization and ensure it is reputable and that you are safe while volunteering. International volunteering can be a life-changing experience, but it is important to ensure your safety and well-being.

Volunteering is a great way to enhance your resume, gain valuable experience, and make a difference in the world. Whether you choose local, virtual, or international volunteer opportunities, you are sure to get back more than you give. Remember to choose an opportunity that aligns with your interests and skills, and always ensure your safety and well-being while volunteering.

How Volunteering Can Enhance Your Resume

Volunteering not only makes a positive impact on the community, but it can also enhance your resume. In fact, volunteer experience can be just as valuable as paid work experience. This section will explore the transferable skills gained from volunteering and provide tips for highlighting volunteering experience on your resume.

Transferable Skills Gained from Volunteering

Volunteering provides a wealth of transferable skills that can be applied to various job roles. Some of these skills include:

Communication: Volunteering often requires effective communication with colleagues, supervisors, and those benefiting from the volunteer work.
Leadership: Volunteering can provide opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as organizing events or leading fundraising campaigns.
Time Management: Volunteers must be able to manage their time effectively to balance their volunteer commitments with other responsibilities.
Adaptability: Volunteering can involve working with various teams and adapting to unpredictable situations.
Problem Solving: Volunteers often encounter challenges and must be able to think creatively and find solutions.
Teamwork: Many volunteer roles involve working as part of a team to achieve a common goal.

How to Highlight Volunteering Experience on Your Resume

When it comes to highlighting volunteering experience on your resume, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

Include volunteer experience in the work experience section of your resume. Treat it as you would any other professional experience and provide details about your role, responsibilities, and accomplishments.
Use action verbs to describe your volunteer experience. This will effectively showcase your skills and accomplishments.
Highlight the transferable skills gained from volunteering. Identify how these skills are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
Quantify your impact. Provide specific details about the impact of your volunteer work, such as the number of people who benefited from your efforts or the amount of money raised.
Be prepared to discuss your volunteer experience in an interview. Practice articulating the skills you gained and how they apply to your career goals.

Volunteering can enhance your resume by providing a wealth of transferable skills that are relevant to various job roles. By effectively highlighting your volunteer experience on your resume, you can showcase your skills, accomplishments, and commitment to giving back to the community.

When crafting a resume focused on volunteering, there are certain dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Here are some specific tips to keep in mind:

Specific Resume Dos:

Emphasize your volunteering experience: Make sure you include any relevant experience you have volunteering for different organizations. This can include positions like volunteer coordinator or event organizer.
Highlight transferable skills: Volunteer experience can provide valuable skills that can be applied to a variety of positions. Focus on the specific skills you developed through volunteering, whether it’s organizational abilities, communication skills or teamwork.
Be specific about your impact: Your resume should highlight the positive impact you have made through volunteering. Discuss the positive outcomes of your work, and quantify them wherever possible.

Specific Resume Don’ts:

Don’t solely focus on your volunteering experience: While it can be an important part of your resume, it is still just one piece of your professional experience. Make sure your resume is well-rounded and includes your education and work experience as well.
Don’t exaggerate your skills: While you might be eager to show off the skills you acquired through volunteering, avoid over-exaggerating or over-selling yourself. Be honest about what you can bring to the table.
Don’t forget to tailor your resume: Make sure your resume is customized to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight the relevant skills and experiences that match the job description.

When creating your volunteering-related resume, it’s important to consider the organization and presentation of your sections and headings. Here are some examples to help guide you:

Experience:

Volunteer Coordinator, Smith Community Center (2018-2020)
- Organized and led fundraising events, resulting in $20,000 raised for the organization
- Managed a team of 15 volunteers to ensure successful execution of events
- Oversaw volunteer recruitment and training processes

Skills:

Communication
- Developed effective communication skills through volunteer coordination and conducting outreach to potential donors and community members
Organization
- Facilitated successful fundraising events through detailed organization of logistics and resources
Teamwork
- Coordinated with a team of volunteers to ensure the success of multiple community events

Achievements:

Volunteer of the Year Award, XYZ Nonprofit (2019)
- Recognized for outstanding contributions to the organization through volunteer recruitment and fundraising efforts. Increased participation in events by 50% during volunteer tenure.

By following these guidelines and using appropriate section headings and language, you can create a strong volunteering-related resume that highlights your skills and experience in a compelling manner.

Tailoring Your Resume to the Opportunity

One of the most important things you can do to improve your chances of getting a volunteering-related job is to tailor your resume to the specific opportunity you are applying for. This means researching the organization and their mission, understanding the key skills they are looking for, and highlighting your experiences and achievements that specifically relate to those skills.

Start by carefully reading the job description and identifying the key requirements and qualifications. Then, review your own experience and skills to see how they match up. Make sure to focus on the areas where you have the most relevant experience or qualifications, and be sure to highlight any transferable skills that could be beneficial as well.

Crafting Strong Bullets and Achievements

When it comes to writing the content of your resume, it’s important to focus on crafting strong bullet points that highlight your achievements and accomplishments, rather than just listing your job duties. Start each bullet point with an action verb and focus on the specific results you achieved, including any numbers or statistics to back up your claims.

For example, instead of saying “Organized a fundraising event,” try something like “Planned and executed a successful fundraising event, which raised over $10,000 for the organization.” This not only highlights your organizational skills, but also shows that you can meet specific goals and achieve meaningful results.

Other tips for crafting strong bullet points include:

Keep them concise and specific, focusing on the most important information
Use keywords and phrases from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role
Use active language and avoid passive voice
Highlight any leadership, teamwork, or problem-solving skills you demonstrated in your past experiences.

The key to a successful volunteering-related resume is to focus on your relevant experience, skills, and achievements, and to tailor your content to the specific opportunity you are applying for. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to landing that dream volunteering job.

When it comes to crafting a volunteering-related resume, it’s important to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Here’s an example of a comprehensive resume that effectively showcases the applicant’s volunteering background:

Your Name

Contact Information:
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: [email protected]

Summary:
Highly motivated and dedicated individual with a passion for making a positive impact through volunteering. Experienced in organizing and managing volunteer programs, fostering strong community relationships, and providing support to various nonprofit organizations. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.

Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work
ABC University, City, State
Year

Skills:

Volunteer program development and management
Community outreach and engagement
Event planning and coordination
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Project management and organizational abilities
Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and social media platforms

Experience:

Volunteer Program Coordinator | XYZ Nonprofit Organization, City, State | 20XX – Present

Develop and implement strategies to recruit, train, and retain volunteers for various programs
Coordinate volunteer orientation sessions, including the creation of training materials and scheduling
Assign volunteers to appropriate projects and provide ongoing support and supervision
Collaborate with internal teams to identify volunteer needs and ensure alignment with organizational goals
Establish and maintain partnerships with community organizations to expand volunteer opportunities
Organize and facilitate volunteer appreciation events to recognize the contributions of volunteers

Achievements:

Successfully increased the number of registered volunteers by 30% through targeted recruitment strategies
Implemented an online volunteer management system, streamlining the volunteer application and tracking process
Led a team of volunteers in organizing a fundraising gala, resulting in a record-breaking donation amount
Received the “Volunteer Coordinator of the Year” award for outstanding leadership and dedication

Volunteer | DEF Youth Center, City, State | 20XX – 20XX

Mentored at-risk youth by providing guidance and support in various areas of their lives
Assisted in planning and implementing educational and recreational activities for program participants
Conducted outreach efforts to raise awareness about the center’s services in the community
Collaborated with staff members to create individualized support plans for youth in need
Documented participant progress and prepared reports for program evaluation

Additional Experience:
Administrative Assistant | GHI Company, City, State | 20XX – 20XX

Provided administrative support to the management team, including calendar management, meeting coordination, and document preparation
Assisted with database management and data entry tasks
Handled incoming calls and emails, resolving inquiries and directing them to the appropriate departments
Prepared and distributed correspondence, reports, and presentations

Volunteer Experience:

Volunteer | JKL Homeless Shelter, City, State | 20XX – 20XX
Volunteer | MNO Environmental Conservation Group, City, State | 20XX – 20XX

Certifications:

Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA), Volunteer Management Professionals
First Aid and CPR Certification, American Red Cross

References:
Available upon request

Writing a Cover Letter for a Volunteering Opportunity

Specifics on How to Not Overemphasize the Volunteer Status

When writing a cover letter for a volunteering opportunity, it can be challenging to strike the right balance between emphasizing your passion for giving back and appearing overly eager or desperate for the opportunity. Here are some specific tips on how to avoid overemphasizing the volunteer status in your cover letter:

Focus on Skills and Qualifications

First and foremost, highlight your relevant skills and qualifications for the position. Whether you’re applying for a volunteer position in marketing or healthcare, emphasize the skills and experience you have that make you a strong candidate.

Mention Volunteering Experience Briefly

While it’s important to mention your passion for volunteering, keep this section brief and to the point. Rather than listing every volunteer position you have ever held, mention one or two experiences that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Don’t Use Language That Devalues Volunteering

Avoid describing yourself as “just a volunteer” or downplaying the importance of volunteering in your cover letter. Remember that volunteering is a valuable and meaningful experience that can demonstrate your dedication, work ethic, and passion for making a difference.

Highlight Personal and Professional Goals

In your cover letter, talk about your goals, both personal and professional. Discuss how volunteering aligns with these goals and how the position you’re applying for can help you achieve them. By emphasizing the ways in which the volunteering opportunity can benefit you, you show that you are invested in the position and not just looking for volunteer hours.

End with a Strong Closing Statement

Finally, end your cover letter with a strong closing statement that reiterates your interest in the position and your qualifications. Avoid saying anything that suggests you’re willing to take any volunteer position that comes your way; instead, communicate that you’re excited about this specific opportunity and eager to contribute to the organization’s mission.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your cover letter strikes the right balance between highlighting your passion for volunteering and demonstrating your qualifications for the position. Good luck in your search for the perfect volunteering opportunity!

Example of a Cover Letter for a Volunteering Opportunity

When applying for a volunteering opportunity, it’s important to craft a compelling cover letter to express your interest and showcase your qualifications. Here’s an example of a cover letter that you can use as a guide:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Date]

[Organization Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am excited to apply for the [volunteering opportunity name] at [organization name], which I found on [source of the job posting]. As a highly motivated and passionate [your relevant skills and experience], I am confident that I possess the skills and experience necessary to make a valuable contribution to your organization.

Throughout college, I volunteered for various non-profit organizations, such as [organization names] and gained hands-on experience in [what you did and how it relates to the volunteering opportunity you’re applying for]. This experience has taught me the importance of [what you learned], and I would love to apply these skills to contribute to [organization name’s] mission.

I am particularly drawn to [organization name’s] dedication to [cause/mission], as it aligns with my personal values and passion for [related interest]. I am eager to work with a team that shares my dedication to social responsibility and to use my skills and experience to make a positive impact in the community.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to [organization name]. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Notice how the letter highlights the applicant’s relevant skills and experience, as well as their passion for the organization’s mission. It’s important to tailor your cover letter to each opportunity you apply for, and to communicate why you are uniquely qualified to contribute.

By following these tips and using the example letter as a guide, you can make a strong impression with your cover letter and increase your chances of being selected for a volunteering opportunity.

Volunteers and Employment Gaps

As someone who is looking for work or is in between jobs, you may find yourself facing a gap in your employment history. Employment gaps can make it challenging to get back into the workforce, particularly if you’re afraid that potential employers might view your time away from work as unproductive or undesirable. However, volunteering can help fill that gap and also demonstrate your passion, commitment, and work ethic.

How Volunteer Work Can Fill A Gap

Volunteering is a great way to not only make a difference in your community but also to showcase your skills and qualities to future employers. Volunteering can help provide you with valuable experiences, build your network, and give you a way to highlight your strengths, particularly if you’ve been out of the workforce for a while. Here are a few ways that volunteer work can fill an employment gap on your resume:

Relevant Experience: If you are looking for a job or career change, volunteering can provide you with relevant experience in your preferred field. For instance, if you are aspiring to work in social services, volunteering at a homeless shelter or a food bank can give you hands-on experience in that area.
Transferable Skills: Even if your volunteer work is not related to your desired job, it can still give you transferable skills that employers are looking for. Skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving are crucial to any workplace.
Resume Filler: When you’re in between jobs, it can be tough to explain what you’ve been doing in the time since your last employment. Volunteering provides you with a worthy answer to that question and fills up that gap in your resume.
Personal Growth: Volunteering can also help you grow personally and show your future employer your dedication to self-improvement. The experience can assist in building your confidence, self-esteem, and empathy, all of which are qualities that will be beneficial to your next job.

Explaining Volunteer Work in the Interview

It is crucial to understand how to present your volunteer work in the interview. Employers are always on the lookout for candidates who can demonstrate their strengths and qualities, and volunteer work is an excellent way to show them. Here are some tips to help you explain your volunteer work in an interview:

Highlight your experience: Explain your role in the organization and how the position supported the organization’s mission. If possible, share your impact and accomplishments in your volunteer role.
Demonstrate your skills: Highlight the skills you have developed while volunteering, these can range from project management to problem-solving. Be sure to explain how you have applied these skills outside the organization.
Show your passion: Your passion and commitment to the cause are admirable and worth mentioning. Explaining the reason you chose the specific organization to volunteer for can also detail your values, ethics, and interests.

Choosing the Best Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering is a fulfilling way to give back to the community, learn new skills, and enhance the resume. However, not all volunteer opportunities are created equal. It is crucial to choose the best ones that align with interests, goals, and skills. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind while selecting volunteer opportunities.

What Opportunities Align with Interests, Goals, and Skills?

The first step to choose the best volunteer opportunities is to identify personal interests, goals, and skills. Volunteers who work in areas that align with their passions are more likely to stay committed and perform better. For instance, those who love animals can volunteer at a local animal shelter, while those who enjoy education can tutor children.

Apart from interests, it is also essential to consider personal goals while volunteering. For instance, someone who is aiming to pursue a career in law can volunteer at a legal aid organization. Moreover, volunteering can help develop new skills and enhance existing ones. Therefore, it is vital to choose opportunities that offer a chance to learn and grow.

Ways to Evaluate the Reputation of an Organization.

It is crucial to volunteer for reputable organizations that prioritize the well-being of their volunteers and beneficiaries. Here are some ways to evaluate the reputation of an organization:

Research: Look for information about the organization’s history, mission, and values. Also, check if it has any negative reviews or lawsuits. Reliable sources could be the organization’s website, social media, or Better Business Bureau.
Talk to Current or Former Volunteers: Reach out to current or former volunteers and ask about their experiences. They can provide insights into the organization’s culture, leadership, and community impact.
Check with References: Organizations that value their reputation and credibility will readily provide references of past volunteers or partners.
Visit the Facility: Take a tour of the organization’s facility and observe the environment. Look for signs of hygiene, safety, and organization.
Consider the Screening Process: A reputable organization will prioritize the screening process to ensure the safety of its volunteers and beneficiaries. Therefore, ask about background checks, training programs, and support systems.

Volunteering can provide a wealth of benefits for personal and professional growth. However, choosing the best volunteer opportunities is crucial to maximize these benefits. By identifying personal interests, goals, and skills and evaluating the reputation of an organization, volunteers can make informed decisions and contribute to the community.

Volunteering to Succeed: Resume Sample and Writing Tips