how to write a resume for a volunteer position

Press Enter to search

Volunteer Work on a Resume: Examples and Templates

Here’s everything you need to know to effectively showcase volunteer work on a resume, including volunteer resume examples and templates.

9 months ago   •   6 min read

Volunteering isn’t just a great way to help out your community — it can also be used to build your resume. Whether you don’t have a lot of paid work experience yet or you’re trying to get experience in a specific niche, volunteer work is a great way to round out your resume, learn in-demand skills, and fill in any missing gaps.

Keep reading to learn how to effectively showcase volunteer work on your resume. In this article we will cover:

• Volunteer resume templates you can download
• Examples of volunteer resume accomplishments
• Essential volunteer-based skills to list on your resume

How to list volunteer work on a resume

• Start by creating a separate resume section. Give it a title like “Volunteer Experience” or “Community Involvement.”
• Alternatively, you can list volunteer work directly in the Work Experience section of your resume — just make sure to put “Volunteer” somewhere in your job title.
• List the organization and your dates of service (years or months).
• List your job title. If you had a specific job title, like “Fundraising Coordinator,” use that, but if not, “Volunteer” is fine.
• Choose 2-3 examples of things you accomplished during your role.
• List these in bullet points, starting with an action verb like Managed, Collaborated, or Organized.
• If possible, add some numbers to quantify each accomplishment — for example, “collected $15,000 in donations” rather than “collected donations.”
• Get instant feedback from our free resume scanner before you send it off.

Volunteer resume templates

Here’s an example of a resume you could use to show off your volunteer work for a nonprofit organization:

A template like this works well if you don’t have a lot of paid work experience, by taking your volunteer experience and letting it shine upfront.

Here’s another volunteer resume example:

This template is ideal if you have a mix of paid and volunteer experience that you want to showcase on your resume. You can download these volunteer resume templates — and more — from our ATS resume templates page.

I recommend uploading your resume to the tool below to check whether you have effectively highlighted your volunteer experience, along with any transferable skills gained from that experience.

Examples of volunteer work on a resume

Whether you start with one of the templates above or prefer to create your own resume from scratch, you’ll need some actual accomplishments to fill it out. Here are some volunteer resume examples you can copy and paste or use as a jumping-off point to write your own.

Nonprofit volunteer resume

Volunteer work looks great on a resume, whether you’re applying to work at a nonprofit organization or you just want to show off a few relevant accomplishments. Here’s an example:

XYZ Nonprofit Organization, June 2019 - Present Volunteer • Organized and executed fundraising events, resulting in over $15,000 in donations. • Coordinated with volunteers to collect and distribute donations to local families in need. • Provided support for various programs and initiatives, including outreach to underserved communities.

Community service volunteer resume

Community service isn’t just a nice thing to do — it’s also a great way to build skills and gain experience, especially if you’re just starting out. Here’s an example:

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE ABC Youth Center, September 2018 - May 2019 Volunteer Mentor • Mentored and provided support to a group of 10 at-risk youth, promoting positive behavior and academic success. • Coordinated activities and field trips, fostering teamwork and communication skills among youth participants. • Encouraged and guided youth in setting and achieving personal goals, resulting in increased self-esteem and motivation.

Student volunteer resume

If you’re a student or recent graduate, volunteer work is a valuable addition to your resume. This can include student activities and organizations. Here’s an example:

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Resume Worded Finance Society, September 2017 – May 2020 Head of Events • Founded the first ever Business Series to organize finance training for 500 students. • Organized and advertised 10+ quarterly networking events with 300+ participants in 3 universities in Boston. • Managed the launch of new booking system to improve organization of events; system now used across university.

Hospital volunteer resume

Looking to start your medical career? Adding some volunteer work alongside your studies is a great way to show that you’re committed to the field and passionate about your work.

Here’s an example:

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Resume Worded Medical Center, 2016 - 2018 Volunteer Emergency Medical Technician • Volunteered as an EMT for one night-shift weekly in one of the busiest areas in New York City. • Provided basic patient assessments to assess the severity of the patient’s condition, subsequently providing BLS to treat those conditions; 100% success rate in resuscitating emergency patients. • Worked as part of a 3-person team to treat patients & understand their medical and family histories.

Political volunteer resume

Political organizations can be contentious, but there’s a way to list them on your resume while staying professional. Instead of talking about a specific issue, keep the focus on the work you did and leave partisanship out of it. Here’s an example:

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Young Voters Society, June 2019 – April 2020 Poll Agent • Registered high school students to boost voter participation among 19-year-olds by 71%. • Partnered with a team of 12+ poll watchers to prepare election ballots within 30 minutes, establishing a 98% accuracy rate in counting votes.

Charity work resume

No volunteer work is too small for your resume. Remember to keep the focus on what you accomplished with some action verbs and metrics, like in this example:

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE XYZ Animal Shelter, August 2017 - December 2018 Volunteer • Assisted in the care and adoption of over 100 animals, including dogs, cats, and rabbits. • Coordinated with staff and other volunteers to organize successful adoption events, resulting in a 30% increase in adoptions. • Raised over $5,000 in donations through social media campaigns and community outreach efforts.

Resume-worthy skills gained through volunteer experience

Don’t have volunteer experience in the area you’re planning to work in? That doesn’t mean it isn’t relevant! When listing experience — volunteer or otherwise — on your resume that isn’t obviously related to the job you’re applying for, the key is to emphasize transferable skills. Some of the best soft skills to highlight on a volunteer resume include:

Communication

Problem solving.

• Organization
• Project management
• Customer service
• Relationship building
• Conflict resolution

But don’t rush to list these skills in your Skills section — transferable skills like these belong in your Work Experience accomplishments instead. For each skill that you want to highlight, choose an example of a time when you demonstrated that skill and turn it into a bullet point. Here are some examples:

• Collaborated with a team of volunteers to organize a successful fundraising event that raised $10,000 for a local charity.
• Worked in a team to implement a new system for tracking donations, resulting in a 25% increase in donor retention.

If you’re struggling to come up with things you accomplished, try thinking about what your whole team accomplished instead. Not only will this add some more achievements to your resume, it also shows that you’re a team player, which is something every employer wants.

• Provided excellent customer service as a volunteer at a community center, effectively communicating with diverse populations and resolving issues in a timely manner.
• Managed social media accounts for a nonprofit organization, creating engaging content and responding to inquiries from followers.

Instead of saying something vague like “communicated with members of the public,” try to focus on how you communicated — for example, working in a customer-facing position, calling donors, or managing a social media account.

• Created a system for organizing and distributing supplies to volunteers during a disaster relief effort, resulting in a more efficient and effective response.
• Identified and addressed issues with a nonprofit's website, improving user experience and increasing traffic by 30%.

If you’ve ever been in an interview, you’ve probably been asked about a time when you encountered a problem and how you solved it. That’s not just a good interview question — it’s also a great idea for a resume bullet point like the ones above.

• Led a team of volunteers in planning and executing a successful environmental conservation project, resulting in recognition from local government officials.
• Coordinated a group of volunteers for a charity event, delegating tasks and ensuring smooth operations throughout the day.

Applying for roles where leadership is a must but without formal management experience? Volunteering is a great way to help with that — any time you led a team, trained new volunteers, or spearheaded a project can be used to show your leadership skills.

• Career Advice

Spread the word

How to update your linkedin after graduation, why your resume should include a phone number and how to format it correctly, keep reading, how to show bilingualism on your resume (with examples), oops what to do if there’s a mistake on your resume, getting the basics right: resume line spacing, subscribe to our newsletter.

Stay updated with Resume Worded by signing up for our newsletter.

🎉 Awesome! Now check your inbox and click the link to confirm your subscription.

Please enter a valid email address

Oops! There was an error sending the email, please try later

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

30 Examples: How To List Volunteer Work on a Resume

By Status.net Editorial Team on April 26, 2024 — 10 minutes to read

Volunteering is a great way to acquire new skills, network with professionals, and make a difference in your community. When it comes time to update your resume, incorporating your volunteer experiences may give you a competitive edge. The key is to present your volunteer experience in a manner that highlights the relevant skills you’ve gained and what you’ve accomplished.

Begin by examining the volunteer work you’ve done and identifying the skills that would be most applicable to the job you’re seeking. For example, if you volunteered at an animal shelter, you might have developed strong communication and teamwork skills while coordinating with other volunteers and shelter employees. Or, if you volunteered as a tutor, you could highlight your ability to effectively teach complex subjects and demonstrate expert problem-solving skills.

Identifying Your Volunteer Experiences

Start by making a list of all your volunteer activities, including the organization, your role and responsibilities, and the length of time you were involved. For example:

• Nonprofit Organization A – Volunteer Coordinator (6 months)
• Community Event B – Event Volunteer (one-time event)
• Local Animal Shelter C – Dog Walker (3 months)

As you review your list, consider the skills and knowledge you gained from each experience. This could be anything from project management to customer service or even special skills like event planning or social media promotion.

Next, prioritize your experiences by relevance for the job you’re applying for. This means considering which volunteer activities showcase the most important skills, expertise, and qualities that the employer is looking for. After you’ve identified the most relevant volunteer experiences, it’s time to think about how to present them on your resume. One effective approach is to include a dedicated volunteer work section, ideally located near your professional experience section. This allows you to highlight valuable skills and experiences while also demonstrating your commitment to giving back.

Where to Place Volunteer Work on Your Resume

Main experience section.

Consider placing volunteer work in your main experience section if it relates closely to the job you’re applying for. For example, if you have volunteered at an animal shelter and are applying for a position as a veterinarian assistant, it would be relevant to include this experience with your professional work history.

When listing volunteer work in the main experience section, it should be formatted similarly to your regular employment:

• Organization Name, City, State
• Your role/job title
• Duration (Month Year – Month Year)
• Key accomplishments or responsibilities (use bullet points to make these easier to read)

Separate Volunteer Section

If your volunteer work is not directly related to the job you’re applying for, or if you already have extensive relevant employment experience, it might be more appropriate to create a separate volunteer section on your resume. This section should come after your main experience section, but before the education and skills sections.

In the separate volunteer section, you can still emphasize how these experiences contributed to your personal and professional growth. List your volunteer experiences by following the same format as the main experience section.

Volunteer Work on a Resume: 30 Examples

1. Community Service Volunteer – Organized weekly community clean-up events, managing teams of 20+ volunteers – Coordinated with local businesses for resource contributions

2. Hospital Volunteer – Provided companionship and support to patients, improving their hospital experience – Assisted nurses with non-medical tasks to enhance patient care

3. Animal Shelter Volunteer – Cared for and socialized animals to prepare them for adoption – Implemented a new system for tracking animal vaccinations and health records

4. Youth Mentor – Mentored a group of 10 high school students, providing academic and personal guidance – Developed and facilitated workshops on college readiness and career exploration

5. Event Planning Volunteer – Played a key role in organizing annual charity gala, raising over $50,000 – Managed logistics, including venue selection, catering, and guest list coordination

6. Environmental Conservation Volunteer – Participated in reforestation projects, planting over 1,000 trees – Educated the public on sustainability practices through workshops and presentations

7. Disaster Relief Volunteer – Assisted in rebuilding efforts after local flooding, contributing over 200 hours of service – Distributed food and supplies to affected families

8. Volunteer Tutor – Provided weekly math tutoring to underprivileged students, resulting in a 25% average grade improvement – Created personalized lesson plans and practice exercises

9. Food Bank Volunteer – Organized food drives that collected over 3 tons of food for the local community – Streamlined the food sorting process, increasing efficiency by 30%

10. Special Olympics Volunteer – Coached a team of 15 athletes, leading them to win gold in regional competitions – Coordinated travel and accommodations for team events

11. Habitat for Humanity Volunteer – Contributed to the construction of 5 homes for low-income families – Led a team of volunteers in framing and drywall installation

12. Volunteer Fundraiser – Spearheaded a crowdfunding campaign that raised $10,000 for a local animal rescue – Developed marketing materials and social media strategies to promote the campaign

13. Library Volunteer – Managed book inventory and assisted patrons with locating resources – Organized weekly storytime sessions for children, fostering a love of reading

14. Crisis Hotline Volunteer – Provided empathetic support to individuals in crisis, contributing to a 20% increase in positive outcomes – Completed 60 hours of specialized training in crisis intervention techniques

15. ESL (English as a Second Language) Volunteer Teacher – Taught English to adult learners, helping 30+ students achieve conversational proficiency – Developed culturally sensitive teaching materials

16. Nonprofit Board Member – Served on the board of a local nonprofit focused on youth development – Participated in strategic planning and fundraising efforts

17. Volunteer Translator – Provided translation services for a community health center, improving access for non-English speakers – Translated over 200 pages of health education materials

18. Legal Aid Volunteer – Assisted in providing free legal services to low-income individuals – Conducted legal research and prepared case documents under attorney supervision

19. Volunteer Web Developer – Designed and maintained the website for a local charity, increasing online donations by 40% – Implemented SEO best practices to enhance the site’s visibility

20. Art Program Volunteer – Facilitated art workshops at a community center, inspiring creativity in 50+ participants – Curated a successful art exhibit showcasing local talent

21. Senior Center Volunteer – Organized social activities and outings for seniors, improving community engagement – Provided tech support, helping seniors connect with their families online

22. Volunteer Coach – Coached a youth soccer team, emphasizing teamwork and sportsmanship – Organized fundraising events to support team equipment and travel expenses

23. Public Health Volunteer – Supported public health campaigns by distributing educational materials and organizing community events – Conducted surveys to assess the impact of health initiatives

24. Music Therapy Volunteer – Performed weekly music sessions at a local hospital to enhance patient well-being – Collaborated with therapists to tailor sessions to individual patient needs

25. Museum Docent – Led educational tours, engaging visitors with the museum’s exhibits – Assisted in the development of new exhibit materials and interactive displays

26. International Volunteer – Taught English and basic computer skills in a rural community abroad – Assisted with the development of a local microfinance program

27. Volunteer Social Media Coordinator – Managed social media accounts for a nonprofit, growing the follower base by 500% – Created engaging content that increased audience interaction

28. Literacy Advocate Volunteer – Participated in reading programs at local schools, helping to improve literacy rates – Organized book donation drives to provide resources for underfunded libraries

29. Volunteer Research Assistant – Supported a university research project by collecting and analyzing data – Co-authored a paper on the project’s findings, which was published in a peer-reviewed journal

30. Homeless Shelter Volunteer – Assisted with daily operations at a shelter, providing meals and support to residents – Developed a job search workshop to help residents gain employment

How to Describe Your Volunteer Work

Use action verbs.

It’s important to use action verbs to describe your duties and accomplishments in your volunteer work. This helps create a strong impression on the reader and showcase your proactive nature.

Examples of strong action verbs:

• Collaborated
• Implemented
• Coordinated
• Facilitated

Quantify Your Impact

When describing your volunteer work, try to quantify your impact whenever possible. This helps provide more context and shows the impact of your contributions.

• Coordinated a team of 15 volunteers
• Raised $5,000 for a local charity
• Organized a charity event with over 200 attendees
• Contributed 120 hours of tutoring
• Assisted in the construction of three homes for low-income families
• Led a group of ten in weekly park cleanups
• Mentored 50 students in an after-school program
• Facilitated team-building exercises for 100 employees
• Developed and implemented a new training curriculum
• Served meals to over 500 people in need

Tailoring Your Volunteer Experience to the Job Description

Emphasize the relevant skills you gained during your volunteer experiences by relating them to the job you’re applying for. This helps demonstrate how your volunteer work has prepared you for the position.

• Improved interpersonal communication through tutoring sessions
• Developed leadership abilities as a team coordinator
• Strengthened problem-solving skills as a volunteer mediator
• Enhanced project management abilities by organizing events
• Acquired customer service experience through volunteer receptionist duties
• Gained public speaking skills through community outreach presentations
• Developed multitasking abilities in a busy office setting
• Improved teamwork skills through group collaborations
• Enhanced negotiation skills through sales fundraising efforts
• Strengthened event planning skills by leading committee meetings

Carefully read the job description and make note of the key requirements and skills the employer is looking for. You can then try to match these with your volunteer experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some ways to present volunteer work on my resume.

You can present volunteer work on your resume in a few different ways, depending on how closely it relates to your desired job and how much experience you have. For example,

• Create a separate Volunteer Work section: This approach is suitable if your volunteer experience is not directly related to your career goals but still demonstrates relevant skills and responsibilities.
• Include volunteer work within your Professional Experience section: If your volunteer experience aligns with your career goals or if you have minimal professional experience, present it alongside your paid positions.
• Highlight related volunteer work under your Skills section: If your volunteer experience helped you gain specific expertise, showcase those skills in your Skills section and mention the relevant volunteer work.

Can you provide a description for including volunteer experience in a resume?

When including volunteer experience in your resume, it’s important to provide details such as the organization’s name, your role or position, the dates you volunteered, and a brief description of your accomplishments and relevant responsibilities. For example:

Volunteer Work

• Provided tutoring in math and English to underprivileged high school students, resulting in improved grades of over 90% of participants.

How should a student with volunteer experience showcase it on their resume?

As a student with limited work experience, emphasizing your volunteer work can demonstrate your skills, initiative, and commitment to potential employers. You can:

• Include your volunteer work in a dedicated Volunteer Experience section, or even within your Work Experience section if it’s directly related to your career goals.
• Highlight key skills gained through your volunteer work in the Skills section, mentioning specific achievements where possible.
• If relevant, mention any leadership roles or significant responsibilities within your volunteer work.

In what manner can I detail my contributions in volunteer positions?

When detailing your contributions, focus on accomplishments and the impact you made through your volunteer work. To do this, use action verbs, quantify results, and emphasize outcomes. For example:

• Organized an annual charity event that raised over $10,000 for children’s educational resources, resulting in a 20% increase in funds compared to the previous year.

Is it beneficial to describe volunteer activities in a resume, and if so, how?

Yes, describing volunteer activities in a resume can be beneficial as it showcases your transferable skills, commitment to the community, and ability to collaborate. To describe your activities effectively:

• Focus on any tasks that demonstrate relevant skills for the position you are applying for.
• Be specific in describing your role, responsibilities, and accomplishments.
• If possible, quantify the impact of your activities, e.g., dollars raised, number of attendees, or percentage improvements.

Are there any specific words or phrases that effectively convey volunteer experiences?

To effectively convey your volunteer experiences, use action verbs and descriptive language that highlights your accomplishments and transferable skills. Examples:

These words can show potential employers that you were actively engaged in your volunteer work and achieved meaningful results.

• 30 Examples: How to List Leadership Skills on Your Resume
• 30 Examples: How to List Accomplishments on a Resume
• 35 Examples: How To Highlight Work Experience on a Resume
• 4 Examples: Impressive Resume with No Work Experience for Students
• 30 Examples of Customer Service Resume Objective
• List of 21 Important Technical Skills (with Examples)

How to List Volunteer Experience On a Resume [W/ Examples]

Let’s face it - first impressions matter. And when it comes to job search, your resume will be the first impression a potential employer will have of you. 

This begs the question: how do you make your resume stand out in a pile of job applications? 

You try to make every section count. And a particularly beneficial one to have in this regard is volunteer experience.

A volunteer experience section can be a great way to showcase your skills if you’re just starting on your career, or even if you have a work experience gap on your CV. It is also an indicator that you are not just any other money-driven applicant, but also someone who cares about giving back to the community. 

But what is the best way - and time - to include volunteer experience in your resume? That’s exactly what this article will show you.

Read on to find out: 

What is a Resume Volunteer Experience Section?

• When to Include Volunteer Experience in Your Resume?
• How to Include Volunteer Experience in Your Resume?
• How to Get Your Volunteer Experience Section Right?

The volunteer experience section of a resume includes any unpaid work you’ve done that could be relevant to your application. In addition to being an effective way to showcase your professional skills, it also shows that you are a purpose-driven person. The studies speak for themselves - volunteering can open a new path to employment. 

You can list volunteer experience either under the work experience section or as a separate section entirely. Below, we’re going to explain how, exactly, you can do both.

But first, here’s an example of how volunteer experience (as a separate resume section) looks like: 

When to Include Volunteer Experience in Your Resume? 

While having a volunteer experience section in your resume can be an asset, it’s not always going to be useful. There’s value in knowing when volunteering can be relevant in improving your chances to get hired and when it can be dead-weight.  

Here’s our cheat sheet on when to and when not to include volunteer experience in your resume. 

• The company you are applying for emphasizes ‘giving’ as part of its identity. Employees at VMware, for example, are given volunteer hours which they can use instead of doing standard work.  
• You have recently graduated and have no work experience . 
• You have extra space on your resume or an employment gap. 
• You are applying for an NGO, non-profit, or charity organization . 
• The volunteer work is outdated. Volunteer work is awesome, yes, but you want it to be as time-relevant for the recruiter reviewing your application as possible. And experience from a decade ago rarely cuts it.
• You can fill up your resume with more relevant sections, such as paid work and education . As a rule of thumb, the first thing a recruiter notices in a resume is paid experience and education - volunteering experience is just a nice-to-have extra. This means you shouldn’t squeeze in volunteer experience if it means cutting out more important sections from your resume. 

How to Include Volunteer Experience In Your Resume

Now that we went over the whens, let’s go over the most important part - how to include volunteer experience in your resume in a way that highlights your skills and emphasizes your achievements. 

As we mentioned before, volunteer experience can be a section of its own or can count as work experience in some specific cases. 

DO include it as part of the work experience section if: 

• The experience is super relevant to the job you are applying for.
• You have otherwise little paid experience. 

For example, let’s say you’re applying for a job in Journalism, but you’ve never worked as a professional in the field. However, you have plenty of journalism experience from years of volunteering at your university’s newspaper. 

Journalism Experience 

Reading Owl Daily

2017 - 2019

• Volunteering experience as Reporter for the University’s daily newspaper. Covered the News section, as well as handled copy editing. 
• Kept track of the newspaper’s online presence and updated its WordPress site daily. 
• Wrote a total of 50 interviews for two years. 

Now, when your volunteering experience isn’t specifically related to the job you’re applying for, you’re better off creating a separate volunteer experience section and formatting it just like the work experience section:

• Volunteering Position
• Organization You Volunteered For
• Responsibilities & Achievements

If you want your unrelated volunteering experience to stand out, however, simply listing your responsibilities and achievements won’t do. Instead, you want to show how the volunteer experience ties you to the job you are currently applying for.   

Confused? Let us cover an example: 

Say that you have been helping at the local animal rescue center for a year, but now you’re applying for a marketing company. Your volunteer experience is not marketing-relevant, but it can be tailored as such.

Volunteer Experience 

• Helped develop an online platform for stray animals’ adoption that saved 100+ dogs and cats, on behalf of the Animal Rescue Center.
• Wrote copy for the online platform and created banners and brochures to advertise it.  

Keep in mind, though, that tailoring is not something that you have to do all the time - volunteering experience is going to help whether or not it’s related to your field.

If you can tailor it to the job, though, that is, for sure, a big plus.

Volunteer Experience Section Example

Looking for some inspiration? Look no further!

Here’s what a well-crafted volunteer experience section looks like on a resume: 

International Federation Red Cross, France

5/2016 - 5/2017

• Provided presentations about Red Cross programs in the community. 
• Assisted the fundraising team with writing grant proposals. 

Now, if you’re listing your volunteering experience as part of the work experience section, here’s how it could look like if you were applying for a job in the communications field:

Team London Volunteer 

Mayor of London Office

09/2018 - 08/2019

• Supported the implementation of a new external communications strategy.
• Created a new e-newsletter to share with a variety of stakeholders to keep them up to date with internal news and to gain new supporters.  
• Generated visual content for the organization’s social media platform. 

How to Get Your Volunteer Experience Section Right 

There’s more to creating a compelling volunteer experience section than just writing it out. Here are our top 3 tips on including volunteering in your resume the right way:

Tip #1: Follow the Format. 

As we mentioned before, there is a pretty straightforward format one can follow to list volunteering experiences.

Here’s what it looks like:

• Your position and/or title 
• Company/Organization name
• Achievements/Responsibilities 
• Volunteering timeframe 

Tip #2: List Achievements Over Responsibilities. 

When possible, you want to focus more on achievements as opposed to responsibilities in your resume (and this applies to volunteer experience, too).

Here’s what we mean by that:

Let’s assume that you have volunteer experience as a research assistant. The responsibilities are pretty obvious - i.e. compiling and distributing questionnaires, collecting and analyzing relevant data, doing statistical and analytical work, etc. 

The HR knows all this - they’re reviewed hundreds of similar resumes, all of which mention the same responsibilities.

If you, however, focus on showing how you concretely contributed to the research, by say, pointing out that 50% of the data analyzed by you was used to advance it, you’d have told the recruiter something completely new and compelling that makes you stand out. 

Focusing on your achievements, when relevant, is your best chance at giving your resume the upper hand. 

To give you a more concrete example, though, here’s a comparison of achievements done right: 

• Compiled and distributed qualitative questionnaires with a 90% response rate. 
• Completed 50% of the data analysis later used to advance the project’s research. 

However, in some industries, you might have fewer achievements to list than in others. If you volunteered at your local homeless shelter, your day-to-day goal probably wasn’t to distinguish yourself but help others. If that’s the case, listing responsibilities is OK. 

Here’s how that would look like in your resume: 

• Registering homeless people into the shelter.
• Unpacking and distributing food aids. 
• Oversee opening and closing of the shelter 2 times/week. 

Tip #3: Keep It Relevant

Only mention your volunteering experience if they’re recent and relevant .

For example, if you volunteered 5 years back, and since then you have worked several professional roles in your field, you don’t need to go back in time and mention that volunteering experience (even if it was an amazing learning experience).

In such a case, your volunteering experience is neither recent (it happened 5 years ago), nor relevant (you probably learned a lot more from your recent positions).

Key takeaways 

And we’re done! By now, you should know everything on how to include volunteering experience in a resume.

Now, let’s recap all the main points we’ve covered:

• Volunteer experience can be a huge plus to your job application, especially if you are a recent graduate, have a gap in your resume, or are applying to an NGO.  
• List volunteer experience either as a separate section or as work-related experience (if your volunteering experience is related to the job you’re applying for). 
• When listing your volunteering experiences, when possible, include achievements over responsibilities. Responsibilities are what put you on the same plate as all other applicants - your achievements are what set you apart! 

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

• Career Blog

Volunteer Resume: Top Examples & Tips for 2024

A volunteer resume is a document that outlines an individual’s volunteer experience, skills, achievements, and qualifications related to their volunteer work. It serves as a tool for individuals who want to volunteer their services and for organizations that require volunteers for specific projects or roles.

Importance of a Volunteer Resume

A volunteer resume is important for several reasons. First, it helps an individual to showcase their skills and experiences to potential volunteer organizations. Second, it highlights an individual’s commitment to volunteering and their ability to make a positive impact in their community. Finally, it can serve as a basis for future career opportunities or further education.

How to Make a Volunteer Resume Stand Out

To make a volunteer resume stand out, an individual should highlight their volunteer experience, specifically emphasizing their roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments. They should also include any relevant skills, such as project management or communication skills, and provide concrete examples of how they have demonstrated these skills.

Volunteer Resume Examples

A strong and well-crafted volunteer resume can greatly enhance your chances of securing volunteer opportunities that align with your interests and skills. Here are three sample volunteer resumes that showcase effective layouts, formats, and content:

A. Sample Volunteer Resume 1

Summary statement:.

Dedicated and compassionate volunteer with 5+ years of experience in community outreach programs, event planning, and fundraising. Skilled at building and maintaining relationships with diverse individuals and groups, and passionate about supporting organizations that promote education and youth development.

Experience:

• Community Outreach Volunteer, ABC Education Program (2016-present)
• Event Planning Volunteer, XYZ Youth Development Program (2014-2016)
• Fundraising Volunteer, LMN Non-profit (2013-2014)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and project management abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media platforms
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently

B. Sample Volunteer Resume 2

Experienced volunteer committed to supporting the needs of underserved populations and advancing social justice causes. Skilled in community organizing, advocacy, and coalition building, and passionate about promoting equity, inclusion, and access to resources.

• Community Organizer, ABC Coalition for Immigrant Rights (2018-present)
• Advocacy Volunteer, XYZ Women’s Center (2017-2018)
• Research Assistant, LMN Institute for Social Justice (2015-2017)
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities
• Knowledge of legal and policy frameworks related to social justice issues
• Experience with community outreach, engagement, and mobilization
• Proficiency in data analysis, research methods, and information management

C. Sample Volunteer Resume 3

Goal-driven volunteer with a passion for environmental conservation and sustainability. Experienced in organizing and leading volunteer teams, managing projects, and implementing eco-friendly initiatives. Committed to creating positive social and environmental impact through education, advocacy, and action.

• Volunteer Coordinator, ABC Eco-Action Network (2019-present)
• Project Manager, XYZ Community Garden (2018-2019)
• Outreach Specialist, LMN Environmental Education Center (2016-2018)
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities
• Strong knowledge of sustainable practices and green technologies
• Experience with grant writing, fundraising, and budget management
• Ability to collaborate with diverse groups and stakeholders

These sample volunteer resumes demonstrate effective strategies for highlighting relevant skills, experience, and passion for a given cause or organization. By tailoring your resume to the specific requirements and values of the volunteer opportunity, you can increase your chances of standing out and making a positive impact.

Volunteer Resume Writing Tips

When looking for a volunteer position, it is important to have a well-crafted resume that showcases your experience and skills. Here are a few tips to help you create a strong volunteer resume:

A. Tailor Your Resume to the Volunteer Position

Just like with a paid job, it is important to tailor your resume to the volunteer position you are applying for. Research the organization and position to get an understanding of what they are looking for, and then highlight your relevant experience and skills.

B. Highlight Your Volunteer Experience

Volunteer experience may be the most important aspect of your resume, so make sure to highlight it prominently. Include detailed descriptions of your volunteer roles and the impact you made on the organization and community.

C. Showcase Your Skills

In addition to your volunteer experience, make sure to showcase the skills that you gained from your volunteer work. These may include communication skills, leadership abilities, and problem-solving skills. Demonstrate how these skills can be applied to the volunteer position you are applying for.

D. Use Strong Action Words

To make your resume stand out, use strong action words to describe your experience and skills. Words like “initiated,” “orchestrated,” and “collaborated” demonstrate your abilities and accomplishments.

E. Keep it Simple and Clean

A clean and simple resume layout is important for readability. Use bullet points and clear headings to make it easy for the reader to navigate.

F. Include a Cover Letter

A cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the volunteer position. Use it to explain why you are interested in the position, and how you believe your skills and experience can contribute to the organization.

By following these tips, you can create a strong and effective volunteer resume that will help you make a positive impact in your community.

Volunteer Resume Sections

When it comes to crafting a volunteer resume, there are certain sections that should be included to make it stand out to potential organizations. Here are the top sections you should consider including in your volunteer resume:

A. Contact Information

The first section of your volunteer resume should include your contact information. This should include your full name, email address, phone number, and mailing address. It is important to use a professional email address and phone number that you check frequently.

B. Objective Statement

The objective statement should be a brief statement that describes your career goals and what you hope to achieve through volunteering. This statement should be tailored to the specific organization that you are applying to volunteer with.

C. Summary Statement

The summary statement should give a brief overview of your skills and experiences, and how they relate to the volunteer position you are applying for. This section should highlight your strengths and accomplishments, and showcase why you are a good fit for the position.

D. Relevant Skills

The relevant skills section should include any skills that are relevant to the volunteer position you are applying for. This may include communication skills, leadership skills, organizational skills, or any other skills that are necessary for the position.

E. Volunteer Experience

The volunteer experience section should list any relevant volunteer experience that you have. This may include volunteering for a non-profit organization, volunteering at a community event, or any other volunteer experience that is relevant to the position you are applying for.

F. Education

The education section should list any relevant education that you have received. This may include a degree or certification from a recognized institution.

G. Relevant Certifications or Training

The relevant certifications or training section should include any certifications or training that you have received that are relevant to the volunteer position you are applying for. This may include CPR certifications, training in specific software or equipment, or any other relevant certifications or training.

H. Relevant Professional Experience

The relevant professional experience section should include any professional experience that is relevant to the volunteer position you are applying for. This may include work experience, internships, or any other relevant experience.

I. Achievements and Awards

The achievements and awards section should list any achievements or awards that you have received. This may include academic awards, volunteer awards, or any other relevant awards.

J. References

The references section should include at least three professional references. These references should be people that you have worked with in the past and can vouch for your skills and experience. It is important to ask these individuals before including them as a reference in your resume.

Including these sections in your volunteer resume can help you stand out to potential organizations and showcase your skills and experiences. Remember to tailor your resume to the specific organization you are applying for, and highlight how your skills and experiences relate to the position.

Tailoring Your Volunteer Resume

When applying for volunteer positions, it’s important to tailor your resume to the specific organization and job posting. Here are some tips to help you highlight your fit for the position:

A. Research the Organization

Before submitting your volunteer resume, take some time to research the organization. Look at their website, social media pages, mission statement and values, and recent news or events. This will not only show your interest in the organization, but also help you tailor your resume accordingly.

B. Analyze the Job Posting

When analyzing the job posting, pay attention to the required and preferred qualifications, responsibilities, and desired outcomes. This will help you identify what skills and experience the organization is looking for and allow you to highlight your relevant achievements and experiences.

C. Identify Relevant Skills and Experience

After analyzing the job posting, identify the skills and experience relevant to the position. Consider past volunteer experiences, leadership roles, and any transferable skills from non-volunteer experiences that can demonstrate your fit for the position. Focus on providing specific examples of how you demonstrated these skills in previous roles.

D. Highlight Your Fit

Finally, highlight your fit for the position in your resume. Use specific examples from your research and experience to demonstrate how you align with the organization’s mission, values, and goals. Emphasize your transferable skills and how they can be applied to the position. Use the job posting’s language and keywords to show that you understand the position and have the qualifications they are looking for.

By tailoring your resume to the organization and job posting, you increase your chances of standing out as a potential volunteer candidate. Follow these tips and showcase your fit for the position with confidence!

How to Showcase Your Volunteer Experience

Volunteering is a great way to grow your professional network, expand your skillset, and give back to society. Adding volunteer experience to your resume can make you stand out from other job candidates. Here are some tips to showcase your volunteer experience effectively.

A. Quantify Your Accomplishments

To make your volunteer experience stand out, quantify your accomplishments as much as possible. Instead of just listing your volunteer roles and responsibilities, highlight the impact you made. Did you help raise funds for a non-profit organization? How much did you raise? Did you recruit and train volunteers for a community project? How many people did you train? Including numbers will show your achievements more concretely.

B. Use Strong Action Words

Using strong action words will make your volunteer experience more engaging and showcase your leadership and organizational skills. Use words like “coordinated,” “managed,” “organized,” “trained,” “mentored,” etc. Avoid using generic words like “helped,” “contributed,” or “assisted.” Strong action words will make your experience more impactful and show your value.

C. Emphasize Transferable Skills

Volunteering is an excellent opportunity to develop transferable skills that you can apply in your professional life. Volunteer roles provide many learning opportunities that can translate into skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. When highlighting your volunteer experience on your resume, emphasize the skills you gained that can be transferred to a professional work environment.

D. Highlight Relevant Commercial Achievements

Volunteer experience can be valuable in many industries. If you have volunteered in a specific field, highlight the skills and accomplishments that relate to that area. For instance, if you volunteered in an animal shelter, you can emphasize skills such as animal handling, health care, and administration. Including relevant commercial achievements will demonstrate your expertise and proficiency.

Showcasing your volunteer experience is an excellent way to impress potential employers. When added correctly, volunteer experience can help you stand out from other candidates and show your value in a professional setting. By quantifying your accomplishments, using strong action words, emphasizing transferable skills, and highlighting relevant commercial achievements, you can create a compelling resume that showcases your volunteer experience effectively.

Volunteer Resume Common Mistakes

As a volunteer, your resume is the key to showing potential organizations that you have what it takes to make a difference in their cause. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of being selected.

A. Typos and Grammatical Errors

Grammatical errors and typos in your resume can turn off prospective organizations. Remember that your resume is a reflection of your skills and attention to detail. Make sure to proofread your resume multiple times, and even consider having a friend or family member review it as well.

B. Focusing on Unrelated Work Experience

Don’t make the mistake of including unrelated work experience in your volunteer resume. Instead, highlight any volunteer experience, skills, and accomplishments that relate directly to the job you are applying for. If you lack volunteer experience, consider including relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal projects.

C. Irrelevant or Outdated Information

Avoid including information in your resume that is irrelevant or outdated. This includes things such as high school achievements, outdated software skills, or irrelevant work experience. Instead, focus on showcasing your most recent and relevant experience.

D. Template-Based Resumes

Using a template for your volunteer resume can be a tempting shortcut, but it can also make your application look generic and lackluster. Customize your resume to fit the specific organization and role you are applying for, and consider using a design that showcases your personality and creativity.

E. Lacking Tailoring for Desired Volunteer Position

Another common mistake is failing to tailor your resume to the specific volunteer position you are applying for. Take the time to research the organization and their goals, and then highlight how your experience and skills align with their mission. This will show the organization that you are genuinely interested in their cause and are a good fit for their team.

Avoid common mistakes in your volunteer resume by proofreading for typos, focusing on relevant experience, omitting outdated information, customizing your resume design, and tailoring your resume to the desired position. By following these tips, you can make your volunteer resume stand out to potential organizations and increase your chances of getting selected for your dream volunteer position.

Volunteer Resume Formats

When creating a resume for a volunteer position, it is important to choose a format that highlights your relevant skills and experiences. Here are three commonly used formats for volunteer resumes:

A. Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is the most traditional format and lists your work experiences in reverse chronological order. This format is useful for volunteers who have a solid work history and want to showcase their volunteer experiences in addition to their professional experiences.

When crafting a chronological volunteer resume, make sure to include the following points:

• List your volunteer experiences in reverse chronological order
• Include the name of the organization, the role you played, and the dates you volunteered
• Highlight specific achievements or accomplishments during your time with each organization
• Use active verbs to describe your tasks and responsibilities

B. Functional Resume

A functional resume focuses on your skills and abilities rather than your work history. This format highlights your transferable skills that are relevant to the volunteer position you are applying for. This format is useful for volunteers who have gaps in their work history or who are transitioning to a new career.

When crafting a functional volunteer resume, make sure to include the following points:

• Highlight your key transferable skills, such as communication, leadership, and teamwork
• Provide specific examples of how you have used these skills in past volunteer or work experiences
• Emphasize your achievements and accomplishments rather than just listing tasks and responsibilities
• Include any relevant certifications or training that demonstrate your expertise in a particular area

C. Combination Resume

A combination resume combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats. This format focuses on both your work history and your skills and abilities. This format is useful for volunteers who have a solid work history and want to highlight their transferable skills that are relevant to the volunteer position.

When crafting a combination volunteer resume, make sure to include the following points:

• Start with a summary statement that highlights your skills, experiences, and accomplishments
• List your work experiences in reverse chronological order
• Include specific achievements and accomplishments for each role
• Group your skills and abilities into relevant categories, such as communication or leadership

Choosing the right format for your volunteer resume is crucial to showcasing your skills and experiences. Whether you opt for a traditional chronological format or the functional or combination format, make sure to tailor your resume to the volunteer position you are applying for and highlight your key achievements and accomplishments.

Volunteer Resume Summary

As a passionate and dedicated volunteer, your resume serves as your ticket to making a difference in the world. It’s crucial to have a well-written and optimized volunteer resume that not only showcases your skills and experiences but also highlights your commitment to the cause you’re passionate about.

To ensure that your volunteer resume stands out from the crowd, here are some key tips and examples to keep in mind:

A. Reiterating the Importance of a Well-Written Volunteer Resume

First and foremost, the importance of a well-written volunteer resume cannot be overstated. As a volunteer, you may not have a professional background in the field you wish to contribute to, but your passion, enthusiasm, and commitment can more than make up for it. Therefore, your resume should showcase your volunteer experience, relevant skills, and achievements, and convey your commitment to the cause you care about.

A well-written volunteer resume can help you stand out from other candidates, make a great first impression, and demonstrate your potential as an asset to the organization.

B. Highlighting Key Tips and Examples

Now that you understand the importance of a well-written volunteer resume, let’s dive into some key tips and examples that can help you create an impressive and eye-catching one:

Start with a strong summary statement that highlights your mission, values, and experience in brief. Make sure it’s tailored to the specific organization or cause you’re applying for.

Emphasize your volunteer experience and showcase your key achievements in previous roles. Use clear and concise language to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments.

Highlight your relevant skills and qualifications, including any special certifications, training, or educational background.

Use bullet points to break down your resume into easy-to-read sections, with clear headings and subheadings. This will make it easier for the recruiter to scan your resume quickly and pick out key points.

Include any relevant projects, campaigns, or events that you participated in, with a focus on your contributions and the impact of your work.

C. Emphasis on Personalization and Relevance

Finally, when crafting your volunteer resume, it’s essential to make it personal and relevant to the organization or cause you’re applying for. This means researching the organization and tailoring your resume to the specific role you’re interested in. Highlight your relevant experience and skills, and showcase your passion for the cause.

Remember that each volunteer role is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to crafting a volunteer resume. However, by keeping these key tips and examples in mind, you can create a well-written, personalized, and relevant resume that sets you apart from the competition.

As a volunteer, your resume is a reflection of your passion, dedication, and commitment. By following these key tips and examples, you can create a winning volunteer resume that highlights your unique strengths and experiences and demonstrates your potential as an excellent volunteer.

Volunteer Resume Review Checklist

As a volunteer, your resume is your first introduction to potential organizations and causes. To make a strong first impression, it is important to review your resume for typos, grammatical errors, and proper formatting. Remember to also highlight relevant experience and skills, tailor your resume to the specific volunteer position, and include a cover letter and references.

A. Review Your Resume for Typos and Grammatical Errors

Before submitting your resume, make sure to carefully proofread it for any typos and grammatical errors. These small mistakes can often leave a negative impression on potential organizations and may cause them to overlook your qualifications. A well-written and error-free resume shows attention to detail and strong communication skills.

B. Ensure Resume is Properly Formatted

To make your resume easy to read, ensure that it is properly formatted. Use headings, bullets, and bolded text to highlight important information. Your layout should be clean and professional. Avoid using images, funky fonts, or excessive styling that can be distracting.

C. Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills

Highlighting relevant experience and skills is essential to show the organization that you are a good fit for their volunteer team. Tailor your resume to the specific position you are applying for, and focus on your most relevant experience and skills. Use action verbs to showcase your achievements and quantify your accomplishments where possible.

D. Tailor Your Resume to the Specific Volunteer Position

One size does not fit all. Tailor your resume to the specific volunteer position you are applying for. Review the job description and highlight the skills and experiences that align with the organization’s goals. This shows the organization that you have taken the time to understand their needs and have made an effort to tailor your application for their specific requirements.

E. Include Cover Letter and References

A cover letter is an opportunity to introduce yourself and expand on your qualifications. It should be brief, personal, and highlight your enthusiasm for the cause. References should be individuals who can vouch for your skills and experience. Include their name, relationship to you, and contact information.

A strong volunteer resume can help you stand out from the competition and demonstrates your commitment to the cause. By following this checklist and focusing on your most relevant skills and experiences, your resume will showcase your unique qualifications and increase your chances of being selected for your desired volunteer position.

Related Articles

• Executive Assistant Resume: Example & Writing Tips for 2023
• The Essential Components of a Job Offer Letter With Samples
• Requesting a Raise: Email and In-Person Scripts for 2023
• Healthcare Administrator Resume: 10 Examples for 2023
• Legal Clerk: Job Description, Salary, and Skills for 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead