Hi Mark,

Thanks for writing to us. It sounds like you have some fantastic volunteer work experience. I've sent your question off to our coaches who will be in touch soon. My first recommendation is to submit your resume to our free resume review service (if you haven't already): http://www.cancerandcareers.org/resume_reviews/new. 

We often recommend using volunteer work to fill the gap on a resume. You can list the volunteer work that you've done and describe how it translates into skills that are applicable to the kind of work you're looking to do. More info on this strategy can be found here: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/resume-gap

We also have tips and sample resumes that may be of help here: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/write-your-best-resume

I hope this was helpful and our coaches will be in touch soon.

Best,

Sarah, Manager of Programs, Cancer and Careers

Hi Mark,

I echo Sarah's comments about volunteer service being a great way to demonstrate your skills and achievements. Congratulations on all your contributions!

An important point about listing your volunteer service is that instead of simply listing the organization, your role and the tasks you were involved with, focus your descriptions on your achievements and quantify them as much as possible just as you would for a paid job. 

Also, because you haven't been employed for four years, I suggest putting your volunteer section on the first page of your resume. 

Good luck!

Julie