Decline an Invitation to Join an Organization • Example Letters, Guides and Samples

Guides

The organization's members undoubtedly feel they are extending a valuable offer to you. Therefore, express appreciation for the opportunity that you cannot accept at this time and show respect for the organization.

How to write this invitation letter:

  1. Express appreciation for the invitation and your regard for the organization. Explain briefly why you cannot join.
  2. Wish the organization success and express interest in possible affiliation with it in the future.

Example Letter #1

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I am honored that you would extend an invitation to me to join the Raven Lodge. I have tremendous respect for all you have done for our community, but I am not able to accept your invitation at this time. I have recently accepted a lay appointment in my church, which requires my participation on Thursday evenings. In a sense, my work there complements the work of the Lodge.

Perhaps when my current term of service is over, I will be able to reconsider your offer, if it still stands. Thank you for considering me. I wish you success in all your endeavors.

Example Letter #2

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Thank you for your kindness in asking me to join your lodge. Because other commitments require my attention on Tuesday evenings, I regret that I cannot accept the invitation at this time. If you would consider me for membership again next year, it is probable that I could join. Please accept my sincere wishes for continued success.

Example Letter #3

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I was flattered by your invitation to join such a worthwhile organization such as the Springfield Women's League. I have nothing but the highest esteem for your group. However, I am unable to join because of my family obligations. I'm not sure I can handle another commitment in addition to raising my young children.

Perhaps in a few years my time will again be my own. At that time, I would wholeheartedly accept your generous invitation. Best wishes for the League's continued success.

Write Your Letter Step-by-Step

1 Express appreciation for the invitation and your regard for the organization. Explain briefly why you cannot join.

Sample Sentences for Step 1
  • I am honored that you would consider me for membership in your organization. Although I am aware of the good you accomplish in our community, I must decline because I have other church commitments that occupy my time on Thursday evenings.
  • At any other time I would quickly accept your invitation to join because of the respect I have for your organization. However, my current commitments are so time consuming that I must decline this time.
  • I am flattered that you would consider me qualified for membership in your organization. I wish I could accept the invitation, but we will soon be moving from the community.
  • My sincere thanks for your invitation to join your organization. Unfortunately, I must decline at this time. My current affiliation with the realty association could present a conflict of interest.
Sample Phrases for Step 1
  • accept my sincere thanks for
  • am very much aware of
  • am afraid I must decline
  • am honored that
  • am flattered that
  • at any other time
  • current commitments are
  • felt honored by your
  • for membership in
  • in your plans for
  • inviting me to
  • must decline this time
  • must regretfully decline
  • must turn you down at this time
  • my current affiliation with
  • respect I have for your
  • thank you for
  • that you would ask me to
  • that you would consider me for
  • that you consider me qualified
  • the good that you accomplish
  • to receive your invitation
  • was surprised and honored
  • wish I could accept
  • would quickly accept
  • your request that I consider
  • your invitation to join
  • your kind invitation

2 Wish the organization success and express interest in possible affiliation with it in the future.

Sample Sentences for Step 2
  • Please accept my best wishes for future success.
  • Thank you for thinking of me and best wishes in all your endeavors.
  • I know your organization will continue to make a great contribution to our community.
  • I will be following your activities. Perhaps I will be able to participate in the future.
  • Best wishes! I hope you will consider me for membership again when circumstances allow.
Sample Phrases for Step 2
  • am sure that you
  • am certain that you
  • be an inspiration to
  • best wishes for your success
  • for thinking of me
  • for your future success
  • hope to be able to
  • in all your endeavors
  • keep up the good work
  • make a real difference to
  • make a great contribution to
  • participate in the future
  • please accept my best wishes
  • sincere wishes for
  • support your activities
  • thank you once more
  • when circumstances change
  • will continue to
  • wish you continuing success
  • wish you well