Introduction

If you’re considering a career change, highlighting your volunteer experience can be a powerful way to showcase your skills and dedication. Many employers value the soft skills and commitment demonstrated through volunteer work, making it an essential part of your resume. Here are three diverse examples that illustrate how to effectively include volunteer experience in your resume.

1. Non-Profit Project Coordinator

Context

This example is perfect for someone transitioning into project management from a different field. It emphasizes leadership and organizational skills gained through volunteer work.

Example:

Jane Doe
123 Main St, Anytown, USA
(123) 456-7890
janedoe@email.com

Professional Summary
Detail-oriented professional with 5+ years in marketing, seeking to leverage extensive experience in project coordination and team leadership in a project management role. Proven track record in managing non-profit projects from conception to completion.

Volunteer Experience
Project Coordinator
Helping Hands Non-Profit, Anytown, USA
January 2020 - Present

• Led a team of 10 volunteers to successfully organize and execute a fundraising event that raised over $50,000 for local families in need.
• Developed project timelines and coordinated logistics, resulting in a 30% increase in attendance compared to the previous year.
• Established partnerships with local businesses to secure sponsorships and in-kind donations, enhancing community engagement.

Skills

• Project Management
• Leadership
• Fundraising Strategies
• Community Outreach

Notes

Tailor the skills section to match the requirements of the job you’re applying for. Quantifying achievements, like the amount raised, adds credibility.

2. Education and Tutoring Volunteer

Context

This example is aimed at someone moving into the education sector. It highlights teaching and mentoring skills developed through volunteer work.

Example:

John Smith
456 Elm St, Othertown, USA
(987) 654-3210
johnsmith@email.com

Professional Summary
Dynamic professional with a background in sales, seeking to transition to a teaching role. Passionate about education and committed to fostering student success through engaging and supportive learning environments.

Volunteer Experience
Tutoring Volunteer
Local Community Center, Othertown, USA
September 2019 - Present

• Tutored high school students in mathematics and English, improving overall grades by an average of 20%.
• Developed individualized learning plans that catered to diverse learning styles and needs.
• Conducted workshops for parents to help them support their children’s academic progress, leading to increased parent involvement.

Skills

• Teaching
• Curriculum Development
• Communication
• Mentoring

Notes

Focus on the impact you made through your volunteer role. Mention any training or certifications that relate to education if applicable.

3. Environmental Conservation Volunteer

Context

This example is suited for an individual shifting into environmental science or sustainability roles. It emphasizes teamwork and project execution.

Example:

Lisa Green
789 Oak St, Sometown, USA
(555) 123-4567
lisagreen@email.com

Professional Summary
Enthusiastic environmental advocate transitioning from a corporate sales position to a career in environmental science. Experienced in leading volunteer initiatives and promoting sustainability practices.

Volunteer Experience
Conservation Volunteer
Green Earth Initiative, Sometown, USA
March 2021 - Present

• Collaborated with a team of volunteers to restore local habitats, planting over 500 trees in a three-month period.
• Organized community clean-up events that engaged over 200 residents, resulting in the removal of 1,000 pounds of litter from parks and waterways.
• Created educational materials on sustainability practices, increasing community awareness and participation in environmental initiatives.

Skills

• Team Collaboration
• Event Planning
• Environmental Education
• Public Speaking

Notes

When changing careers, relate your volunteer experience to the job description. Highlight transferable skills that make you a strong candidate for the new role.