Volunteer experience, whether ongoing or completed, should be presented on a resume with the same level of detail as paid employment. This includes listing the organization’s name, location (city, state), dates of involvement, and a concise description of responsibilities and accomplishments. For example, instead of simply stating “Volunteered at a local animal shelter,” one might write “Animal Shelter of San Diego, San Diego, CA | June 2022 – Present | Assisted with animal care, including feeding, grooming, and exercising; facilitated adoption events.” Quantifying accomplishments whenever possible, such as “Increased adoption rates by 15% during summer adoption drive,” adds further impact.
Including volunteer experience demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility and can highlight valuable transferable skills applicable to various professions. It showcases initiative, dedication, and often, teamwork and leadership qualities. Furthermore, it can fill gaps in employment history or demonstrate a continued pursuit of personal and professional development. Historically, volunteerism has been viewed as a valuable contribution to society, and this perspective is reflected in the positive weight it carries on a resume.
