Edit this cover letterNonprofit Cover Letter Examples
Apply for jobs confidently with our nonprofit in the industry 'social services' cover letter examples. These samples and writing guide are all you need to create an application letter that lands a job.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Nonprofit Cover Letter Example
Use this free cover letter template as a starting point. Fill in the blanks with your details and follow the instructions to write a job-winning cover letter.
Your name
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[OPTIONAL: Department Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.
The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.
Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.
Sincerely,
— Your Full Name
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How to Write a Nonprofit Cover Letter
Tackle the writing process with confidence with the help of this detailed guide for writing a cover letter for a nonprofit in the industry 'social services' role. The following cover letter sample will show you the key sections you must include and the proper formatting.
Now, let's go into detail on what to include and what to avoid in each cover letter section. Use this step-by-step guide to write a standout nonprofit in the industry 'social services' cover letter.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
Every cover letter must have a properly formatted header. In this first section, you'll share the letter's date, details about the recipient and a formal greeting.
Strong cover letter header example:
Emily Johnson
Seattle, WA 98101
example@example.com
(555) 555-5555
April 14, 2025
Alex Thompson, Hiring Manager
Helping Hands Social Services
1234 Elm Street
Seattle, WA 98102
Dear Mr. Thompson,
Weak cover letter header example:
Not-for-Profit Corporation
Adam McGreggor
1313 Mockingbird Lane
Los Angles, CA 90001
(555) 123-6789
aemail@example.con
Date: 45/67/8901
To Whom It May Disturb,
I am exicited to apply for the position at GoodWill Industries.
PRO TIP
Using the recipient's name in the greeting demonstrates attention to detail and personalizes your letter. Try to avoid generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern.“ For more options, explore our guide on addressing a cover letter when you don't know the recipient's name.
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
Quickly capture hiring managers' attention with an engaging first paragraph highlighting your most impressive qualifications. List skills and achievements that show you meet the key job requirements to make a solid first impression. Be professional with your words, but don't be afraid to sound genuine in your interest in the role.
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a social worker with 5 years of experience in community development, I am excited to apply for the Nonprofit Coordinator position at Helping Hands Initiative. My background in program management has equipped me for this role, particularly through my experience enhancing outreach programs. Recently, I increased community engagement by 30% through innovative partnership strategies.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hey there, I just wanted to drop a quick note expressing my interest in a nonprofit role at Helping Hands. I’ve done some stuff in social services and I'm super interested.
PRO TIP
If a current employee has referred you for this position, mention this in the opening paragraph. Our referral cover letter openings article shows you how to do this.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph will comprise the bulk of your document and should focus on quantifiable achievements and additional key skills. You can also get more personal with this section and show employers your passion for the job or career goals.
Strong body paragraph example:
With over five years in social services, I've triumphed in leading initiatives that improved community outreach by 60%. My strategic planning and communication skills were pivotal in launching support programs, engaging over 3,000 participants, and enhancing resource allocation efficiency by 25%. Navigating funding challenges, I secured grants totaling $500K, demonstrating my adeptness in fundraising and stakeholder management, crucial skills for advancing missions within your nonprofit organization.
Weak body paragraph example:
I am writing to express my interest in a nonprofit role in social services. I need a stable position, and I feel I have skills that can fit the sector. Although I lack direct experience, I am eager to make an impact. I hope to learn and grow if given this opportunity to join your team.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
Finally, you'll finish your cover letter with a closing paragraph summarizing your top strengths and interest in an interview. Use a professional sign-off and sign your name. Done!
Strong closing paragraph:
My dedication to social justice and proven experience in community outreach make me a compelling candidate for the Nonprofit Coordinator position at Helping Hands Network. I look forward to the opportunity to share my innovative ideas and contribute positively to your noble mission during an interview. Thank you sincerely for considering my application.
Warm regards,
Evelyn Martinez
Weak closing paragraph:
"I'm excited about the possibility of working in social services at your nonprofit. While I know there are more qualified candidates, my passion for the cause pushes me to apply. If you find my application fitting, I'd be happy to discuss further. Thank you for the time.
Best regards,
Emily Lester"
After completing this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to write a compelling cover letter for any nonprofit in the industry 'social services' role. However, don't waste your time with word processors like Word or Google Docs; take advantage of the pre-formatted cover letter templates and content suggestions our Cover Letter Builder offers. You'll be able to create a custom cover letter in minutes!
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Nonprofit
These are some of the most sought-after skills for nonprofit in the industry 'social services' roles. When describing your accomplishments, incorporate an equal mix of hard skills and soft skills into your letter.
- Grant Writing
- Community Outreach
- Volunteer Coordination
- Program Development
- Social Justice Advocacy
- Case Management
- Client Assessment
- Cultural Competency
- Crisis Intervention
- Fundraising Strategies
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Regulatory Compliance
Find more skills and content suggestions that make sense for your nonprofit in the industry 'social services' cover letter using our Cover Letter Builder to create a custom document. By simply sharing your desired job and writing style, we'll generate a letter in minutes!
Similar Nonprofit Cover Letter Examples
Find some of the best nonprofit in the industry 'social services' cover letter examples below! Click on your favorite template to edit in our Builder.
- Social Worker
- Care Provider
- Program Coordinator
- Community Manager
- Direct Support Professional
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