Reference for a volunteer: reference letter example
When to use it
A reference from the coordinator of an NGO, event or social project for a volunteer — highly valuable for first jobs, scholarships and programmes abroad.
The full letter
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
[Date]
To whom it may concern,
I am [your role] at [Organisation name]. [Candidate's full name] volunteered with our organisation from [start date] to [end date or "the present"], contributing a total of [X] hours.
On [project or event], [Candidate's first name] was responsible for [duties — e.g. "participant registration, coordinating a team of 15 volunteers and our social media reports"]. Thanks to [his/her/their] initiative, [result — e.g. "attendance rose by 30% compared with the previous year"].
[He/She/They] stays patient and kind even under pressure, connects with people quickly and is never afraid to take responsibility. We could always rely on [him/her/them].
I warmly recommend [Candidate's first name] for [purpose — a job, a scholarship, a programme], and I am sure [he/she/they] will bring the same energy and responsibility wherever [he/she/they] goes.
Sincerely, [Your full name] [Your role], [Organisation name] [Phone] · [Email]
Replace the parts [in square brackets] with your own details. Cut generic phrases; add specific facts and numbers.
💡 Expert tips
- 1State the hours and the exact role — "coordinated 15 people", not just "helped out".
- 2Attach the volunteer certificate to the letter.
- 3A letter sent from the organisation's official email address carries more weight.