Nonprofit Letter of Interest: Samples & Powerful Writing Tips

A letter of interest for a nonprofit is a document expressing your enthusiasm and qualifications for a potential role, whether it’s a paid position or a volunteer opportunity. Unlike a cover letter that responds to a specific job posting, a letter of interest is proactive. It demonstrates your genuine interest in the organization’s mission and how your skills and experience align with their values. Crafting a compelling letter requires research, sincerity, and a clear articulation of how you can contribute to their success.

These letters aren’t just about restating your resume; they are about painting a picture of you. Demonstrate why you’re enthusiastic about the nonprofit’s cause. Highlight your unique abilities. Illustrate how you can contribute to their objectives. Before submitting any letter, be sure to customize it. Generic letters are easy to spot. Tailor each one to the specific organization. Show that you have invested the time to understand their priorities and goals.

10 Sample Letters of Interest for Nonprofits

Sample Letter 1: General Interest (New Graduate)

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Team”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Hiring Team”],

I am writing to express my strong interest in potential opportunities at [Nonprofit Organization Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Degree] and a passion for [Nonprofit’s Cause], I am eager to contribute my skills in [mention 1-2 skills like research, communication, event planning] to an organization making a positive impact. I have been consistently impressed by [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s work in [mention a specific program or initiative]. I am particularly drawn to [mention something specific that resonates with you].

During my studies, I gained valuable experience in [mention relevant experience, e.g., volunteering, internships, group projects]. I am a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual with a strong work ethic. I am confident that I can quickly learn and contribute to your team. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can benefit [Nonprofit Organization Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 2: Experienced Professional (Career Change)

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Team”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Hiring Team”],

I am writing to express my keen interest in contributing my professional experience to [Nonprofit Organization Name]. With [Number] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I am seeking a career change that allows me to leverage my skills to support a cause I deeply believe in: [Nonprofit’s Cause]. I have long admired [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s commitment to [mention a specific value or program]. My skills in [mention 2-3 skills relevant to the nonprofit’s work, e.g., project management, fundraising, marketing] align well with your organization’s needs.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I was responsible for [briefly describe a relevant accomplishment or responsibility]. I am confident that my ability to [mention a key skill or strength] would be a valuable asset to your team. I am eager to learn more about potential opportunities at [Nonprofit Organization Name] and discuss how my skills and experience can contribute to your mission. My resume is attached for your review. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 3: Volunteer Position

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Volunteer Coordinator Name (if known), or “Volunteer Coordinator”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Volunteer Coordinator”],

I am writing to express my strong interest in volunteering with [Nonprofit Organization Name]. I have been a longtime supporter of your work in [Nonprofit’s Cause] and am impressed by your dedication to [mention a specific accomplishment or program]. I am eager to contribute my time and skills to support your mission. I am particularly interested in [mention a specific area or type of volunteering, if known, e.g., event support, administrative tasks, direct service].

I have [Number] years of experience in [mention relevant experience or skills, e.g., customer service, data entry, community outreach]. I am a reliable and enthusiastic individual with a strong desire to make a difference. I am available [mention your availability, e.g., evenings, weekends, specific days]. I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about volunteer opportunities at [Nonprofit Organization Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 4: Specific Program Interest

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Program Director Name (if known), or “Program Director”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Program Director”],

I am writing to express my strong interest in contributing to the [Specific Program Name] program at [Nonprofit Organization Name]. I have been closely following the work of [Nonprofit Organization Name] and am particularly impressed by the impact of [Specific Program Name] in [mention specific achievement or impact of the program]. My passion for [Nonprofit’s Cause related to the program] aligns perfectly with the goals of this program.

With my background in [Your Background/Skills], I believe I can contribute significantly to [Specific Program Name]. I have experience in [mention specific skills relevant to the program, e.g., community organizing, curriculum development, fundraising]. I am eager to learn more about how I can support the [Specific Program Name] program and help further its mission. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 5: Board Membership Interest

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Board Chair Name (if known), or “Board Chair”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Board Chair”],

I am writing to express my strong interest in serving on the Board of Directors for [Nonprofit Organization Name]. I have been a long-time supporter of your organization and deeply admire your commitment to [Nonprofit’s Cause]. I believe my experience and skills in [mention relevant skills, e.g., finance, law, fundraising, strategic planning] would be a valuable asset to your board.

I have [Number] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field] and have served on the boards of other organizations, including [mention previous board experience, if any]. I am particularly passionate about [mention a specific area of interest related to the nonprofit’s work]. I am confident that I can contribute to the strategic direction and governance of [Nonprofit Organization Name]. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my interest further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 6: Networking Contact Referral

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Team”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Hiring Team”],

I am writing to express my strong interest in potential opportunities at [Nonprofit Organization Name], as suggested by [Referring Contact’s Name]. [Referring Contact’s Name] thought my skills and experience in [mention relevant skills] would be a good fit for your organization’s mission to [Nonprofit’s Cause]. I have been consistently impressed by [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s dedication to [mention a specific accomplishment or program].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully [mention a relevant accomplishment]. I am eager to leverage my skills and experience to contribute to [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s continued success. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. I am particularly interested in learning more about your work in [mention a specific area that interests you].

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 7: Expressing Passion for the Cause

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Team”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Hiring Team”],

I am writing to express my deep passion for [Nonprofit’s Cause] and my strong interest in contributing to the important work being done at [Nonprofit Organization Name]. Having personally witnessed the impact of [Nonprofit’s Cause] in [mention personal experience or observation], I am eager to dedicate my skills to an organization making a tangible difference in this area. I am particularly drawn to [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s innovative approach to [mention specific program or initiative].

My background in [Your Background/Skills] has equipped me with the skills necessary to contribute effectively to your team. I am proficient in [mention 2-3 relevant skills]. I am confident that my dedication and skills align with the values and mission of [Nonprofit Organization Name]. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can support your efforts. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 8: Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experience

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Team”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Hiring Team”],

I am writing to express my strong interest in contributing my skills and experience to [Nonprofit Organization Name]. With [Number] years of experience in [Your Field], I am confident that my expertise in [mention 2-3 key skills] can be a valuable asset to your team. I have been particularly impressed by [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s recent work in [mention a specific project or initiative where your skills would be beneficial].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I was responsible for [describe a relevant responsibility and accomplishment showcasing your skills]. I am a results-oriented individual with a proven track record of success. I am eager to learn more about potential opportunities at [Nonprofit Organization Name] and discuss how my skills can contribute to your mission. My resume is attached for your review. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 9: Focusing on a Specific Problem You Can Solve

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Team”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Hiring Team”],

I am writing to express my interest in potential opportunities at [Nonprofit Organization Name] and to offer my expertise in addressing [Specific Problem the Nonprofit Faces, based on your research]. I understand that [Nonprofit Organization Name] is working to address [Nonprofit’s Cause], and I believe my skills in [mention relevant skills related to the problem] can contribute to overcoming the challenges you face in [mention the specific area of concern].

In my previous role, I successfully [mention a relevant accomplishment that demonstrates your ability to solve similar problems]. I am confident that my problem-solving abilities and my passion for [Nonprofit’s Cause] make me a strong candidate to support your mission. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

Sample Letter 10: Following Up After an Event or Meeting

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Team”]
[Nonprofit Organization Name]
[Nonprofit Organization Address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or “Hiring Team”],

I am writing to follow up on my attendance at [Event Name] on [Date], where I had the pleasure of learning more about [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s work in [Nonprofit’s Cause]. I was particularly inspired by [mention a specific speaker, presentation, or aspect of the event]. My conversation with [Person you spoke with, if applicable] further solidified my interest in contributing to your organization’s mission.

As we discussed, my skills in [mention 2-3 relevant skills] align well with [Nonprofit Organization Name]’s current needs. I am eager to explore potential opportunities to contribute my expertise to your team. I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can further support your efforts. Thank you again for a wonderful event and for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]