Volunteering with Veterans—it’s a rewarding experience for both the volunteer and the Veteran. But did you know this type of selfless service can actually benefit you professionally when you list it on a resume?

In today’s competitive job market, it’s important to have a resume that stands out as a cut above the rest. After all, you only get about six or seven seconds to make a positive first impression with a potential employer. Plus, hundreds (sometimes even thousands) of jobseekers are applying for the same position posted on a job board. This begs the question: how can you distinguish yourself in the eyes of a hiring manager?

One of the most significant ways to gain an edge over your competitors when applying for a new position is to show that you have volunteer experience working with Veterans.

Here are 8 reasons why volunteering with Veterans looks great on your resume:

#1 It Proves You Are Mission-Driven

When you give freely of yourself to an organization that serves Veterans, you show potential employers that you have a mission mindset.

Volunteering demonstrates that you can devote your effort and energy to something larger than yourself. By listing this type of volunteer experience on your resume, you highlight your keen ability to align with an organization’s mission and drive results. Employers are looking for people just like you to join the ranks of their organization.

# 2 You Establish that You Have Real-World Experience

Volunteering proves you’ve already been in the trenches—making decisions, solving problems, and working with people from all walks of life.

These experiences build transferable real-world job skills that employers look for.

When you volunteer, you’re not just offering your time—you’re gaining firsthand experience that mirrors what’s expected in a professional role. That’s why volunteering holds serious weight on a resume.

#3 You Show Potential Employers You Have Strong Values

Volunteering with Veterans tells a story about who you are. It signals that you are a reliable and responsible person of character and integrity who is worthy of trust.

Resume experts agree that it is not a good idea to have a “values section” on your resume. However, demonstrating that you have experience volunteering with Veterans provides an opportunity for potential employers to read between the lines and gain insight into what is important to you.

#4 Volunteering Demonstrates Initiative

Working without pay to serve Veterans shows that you are a self-starter. You made the decision to volunteer on your own and you signed up on your own. Plus, you show up time and time again to get the job done.

You are not required to be accountable to a boss or board of directors for a paycheck when you volunteer. Your reward is simply to be of service to others, which is a selfless act. This is an initiative in action.

#5 Soft Skills Translate Professionally

Volunteering with Veterans can help you hone “soft skills” that you can feature on your resume. According to the Department of Labor, employers view soft skills as more important than work readiness. These include communication skills, a strong work ethic, enthusiasm, and teamwork.  

#6 Volunteering with Veterans Signals Your Commitment to Community

In the past ten years, companies have been emphasizing corporate social responsibility practices more than ever. Where the bottom line was once the only priority for a business, community initiatives have become a central focus as well.

Many employers are looking to hire those who have a demonstrated track record of contributing to their communities and making a positive impact on the world around them. When you volunteer with Veterans, you show that you care about others and that you are concerned with the greater good.

#7 You Have an Opportunity to Showcase Leadership Skills

Quite often, small nonprofits find it challenging to find dependable volunteers. Those who do commit to volunteering are often thrust into leadership roles.

When you volunteer with Veterans, you might lead a project, train new volunteers, or serve on a board. With limited resources and time, you learn to prioritize, delegate, and act decisively—skills that translate directly to leadership roles.

# 8 Companies Love Veterans

A significant number of employers prioritize Veterans and give the “Veterans’ Preference” during the hiring process. Of course, you can only claim this if you are a Veteran who meets certain criteria. However, if you are not a former Service Member, volunteering with Veterans shows that you support the military community. This type of selfless service towards those who have served helps your resume stand out to hiring managers.

Let Your Resume Tell the Story About Who You Are

Volunteering with Veterans isn’t just a way to give back—it’s a way to move forward. It demonstrates that you’re mission-driven, values-centered, and equipped with real-world experience that translates directly into workplace success.

From sharpening soft skills to showcasing leadership and initiative, every hour you volunteer tells a powerful story about who you are and what you stand for. In a world where resumes often blend together, your service to Veterans will undoubtedly set you apart when you apply for a new position.

So go ahead—lead with that experience. Let it speak volumes before you even say a word.

Want to Volunteer with Soldiers’ Angels?

We are always looking for those who are interested in volunteering with Veterans! If you want to become a volunteer with Soldiers’ Angels, check out this page to learn how you can get involved.

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