how to write a cover letter for a nonprofit

But first… make sure you follow the directions!

Take a careful look through the job posting and note specific application instructions. Does the hiring organization want you to submit your application through email? Is there a form you need to complete online? Should your materials be included in a single PDF?

Watch out for required tasks , such as any specific questions to address in your cover letter or work samples to include with your application. Believe it not, something as simple as following instructions will help you stand out from the crowd.

How to write a nonprofit cover letter

The format of your cover letter can remain consistent across every job application you send, but the content should be specific, honest, and reflect your excitement about the role. You’ll want to stick to relevant professional and personal details, but don’t forget to let your passion shine through.

To save on time without skimping on details, we’ve broken the cover letter down into four focus areas:

1. Show off what you know about the organization

A good rule of thumb is to only use “To Whom it May Concern” when you truly have no idea who will be in charge of your application. Do some digging to find the name of the person who would be your potential supervisor, or consider addressing your cover letter to the head of HR or recruitment at the organization.

When you’re ready to do some actual writing, focus your introductory paragraph on the role at hand. State your interest in the organization, as well as what you know about their mission. Then, summarize your experience in the field and whether you’ve worked in similar capacities.

2. Tell a compelling story (not a life story)

Your next paragraph should focus on the past roles that are most related to the position (i.e. don’t just rewrite your resume). When the job description calls for certain skills, mention projects that align with what the organization is looking for so they know you can actually do the work involved.

This paragraph is also a good place to mirror the language of the job description, especially when it comes to action verbs and important terms. If the organization uses an automated applicant tracking system (“ATS”) to manage applications, then including the right keywords can help to ensure that an actual human reads your materials.

3. Highlight your commitment to social impact

If you’ve previously worked for a nonprofit, mention your familiarity with the sector and how your experience will help you in this new role. The job description may include some nonprofit lingo , so make sure that you understand and can apply the same language in your cover letter.

Don’t be afraid to share more about your side hustles, volunteer work, or passion projects that relate to the role. These details can help hiring managers understand why you want to be a program coordinator or development assistant for their organization specifically. Note: this is particularly important if you’re a sector-switcher who has limited experience in a mission-driven environment.

4. Close it out with a “thank you”

You’ve already done the work of sharing your most relevant experience, strengths, and interests, so it’s time to wrap it up. Thank the hiring manager for their time, and express your excitement for hearing about next steps.

Customization and careful attention to detail are key when you’re aiming to impress a potential employer. Take a final look through your cover letter to check for typos and other errors you may have overlooked before you hit send.

Pro Tip: Test your eye with our proofreading quiz to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes in your own application materials.

Return to this guide whenever you’re applying for a nonprofit job—we hope it will help you find a position that marries your background and interest in social impact!

If you think a grad degree could help you land the social-impact role of your dreams, take a look through these common grad programs and learn how they connect to the sector.

I oversee the content and resources we share at Idealist to help organizations, prospective grad students, and job seekers make an impact in their personal and professional lives. In my spare time, I love to read, cook, and explore NYC's parks.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Nonprofit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a cover letter for a nonprofit can be a daunting task. The nonprofit sector has its unique set of values, mission, and vision that sets it apart from other organizations. Therefore, it's essential to understand how to tailor your cover letter to fit the nonprofit's culture and goals. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to create a winning cover letter for a nonprofit organization.

Understanding the Nonprofit Sector

The nonprofit sector is a crucial part of society, with organizations created to serve a social or environmental cause. These organizations operate differently from for-profit organizations, and their primary focus is not revenue generation. Instead, their aim is to impact the world positively. Nonprofit organizations are essential for several reasons, including:

Providing essential social services: Nonprofit organizations provide critical social services, such as healthcare, education, and social welfare, to individuals and communities in need. They often fill gaps in areas where the government cannot or does not provide services.
Filling gaps in areas where the government cannot or does not provide services: Nonprofits often operate in areas where the government cannot or does not provide services. For example, some nonprofit organizations provide healthcare services to underserved communities where there are no hospitals or clinics.
Advocating for social change: Nonprofits advocate for social change and mobilize communities to take action on critical issues. They work to create a better world by addressing social and environmental problems.
Enabling people to contribute to society: Nonprofits enable people to contribute to society in meaningful ways. They provide opportunities for individuals to volunteer, donate, or work for a cause they believe in.

The Importance of Nonprofit Organizations

Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in society, and their contributions are immeasurable. They work tirelessly to address social and environmental issues and create a better world. Without nonprofit organizations, many people would be left without access to critical services and support.

Key Differences Between Nonprofit and For-Profit Cover Letters

When applying for a job in the nonprofit sector, it's essential to understand how cover letters in this field differ from those in the for-profit sector. Nonprofit cover letters should be able to demonstrate the applicant's passion for the cause and commitment to making a difference. Additionally, nonprofits value candidates who are relationship-focused and team-oriented. Here are some differences to keep in mind:

Reflecting knowledge and interest in the organization's mission and values: Nonprofit cover letters should reflect your knowledge and interest in the organization's mission and values, which you can research on their website, social media platforms, or other publications. Understanding the organization's mission and values is crucial to demonstrating your passion for the cause.
Being more personalized and passionate: Nonprofit cover letters should be more personalized and passionate than for-profit ones. They should convey an emotional connection to the mission and vision of the organization. You should showcase your commitment to making a difference and your passion for the cause.
Demonstrating collaboration skills: Nonprofits prefer candidates who demonstrate collaboration skills, as teamwork is highly valued in the sector. Highlight any instances where you've successfully worked in a team environment. Be sure to emphasize your ability to work with others to achieve common goals.

Overall, nonprofit organizations are essential for creating a better world, and working in the nonprofit sector can be incredibly rewarding. By understanding the importance of nonprofit organizations and the key differences between nonprofit and for-profit cover letters, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for a job in the nonprofit sector.

Researching the Nonprofit Organization

Mission, vision, and values.

Take time to research the nonprofit's mission, vision, and values. This will guide you on how to frame your cover letter and tailor it to the organization's culture. Understanding the nonprofit's purpose and goals is essential because it shows that you're serious about the application.

Programs and Services

Learn about the nonprofit's programs and services to demonstrate to the hiring manager that you're interested in the organization's work and can envision your role in supporting the team.

Organizational Culture

Learn about the nonprofit's organizational culture and values. Make sure to use the same tone and language in your cover letter as the organization uses, as it reflects how you will fit with the team and its goals.

Formatting Your Nonprofit Cover Letter

Contact information.

Include your name, email, phone number, and address at the beginning of your cover letter. Also, include the organization's contact information at the top left of your letter or the address block.

Address your cover letter to the hiring manager or the person listed in the job posting. Use formal salutations such as Dear Mr. or Ms. unless you're explicitly asked to use a different title.

Body of the Letter

The body of the letter should be around three paragraphs long. The first paragraph should outline your interest in the organization and the job you're applying for. The second paragraph should include your relevant experience and skills, demonstrating how you will support the organization's mission and values. The third paragraph should highlight why you're the best candidate for the role and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Closing and Signature

Close your letter formally, and express your gratitude for the employer's time and attention. Sign your letter with a professional sign-off like 'sincerely' or 'best regards.'

Crafting a Compelling Introduction

Personal connection to the nonprofit's mission.

Begin your cover letter by stating why you're interested in the organization and its cause. You can share a personal experience that resonates with the nonprofit's mission or explain how you came across the organization and why you feel compelled to apply.

Highlighting Relevant Experience

The second paragraph of your cover letter should describe why you're the best candidate for the role. Highlight any relevant skills or experience that you have, emphasizing your teamwork, communication and problem-solving abilities, and how they relate to the specific job you're applying for.

Demonstrating Enthusiasm for the Role

The final paragraph of your letter should express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and how you can contribute to the nonprofit's work. Emphasize your willingness to learn more and support the team in achieving common goals. Be confident and optimistic in your tone.

Writing a compelling cover letter for a nonprofit takes effort, but following these steps will give you a significant advantage over other applicants. The key is to tailor your letter to the organization's culture and mission, demonstrate your passion and relevance to their work, and be confident and enthusiastic in your tone. Good luck with your job search!

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Cover Letter for a Nonprofit

Chatgpt prompt.

Compose a comprehensive and detailed cover letter that is specifically tailored to a nonprofit organization. Ensure that your letter is well-crafted and highly effective in showcasing your skills, experiences, and qualifications that make you a suitable candidate for the position.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]