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