For more than 20 years, Frank and Mae Antkievicz have volunteered with the English as a Second Language (ESL) program at Walnut Grove Baptist Church in Hanover County. Of the more than 40,000 people living in Hanover County, approximately 4.5% speak languages other than English. An inability to speak English affects residents’ lives in many ways, especially for work and education. Without ESL programs, many would be unable to truly become connected with the community in which they live. 

Starting their service as ESL volunteers and assistants, they now run the program serving as both directors and teachers. During their thousands of hours of service, they have taught more than 420 students and helped prepare 30 individuals to receive their U.S. Citizenship. In addition to two-hour weekly classes, they also prepare the materials and classrooms, stay after class to clean the spaces, recruit and train other volunteers, and promote the programs in the community. At almost 80 years old, both are still actively serving their community. 

Cooks, doctors, engineers, and cleaners are some of the many people who were taught by Frank and Mae and who are now contributing back to their community. Parents and grandparents are better able to navigate their children through the Hanover County schools thanks to their new language skills and newcomers are able to join civic groups and participate in their community.  

Though they were also recipients of the 2023 Hanover County Spirit of Inspiration Volunteerism Award, which honors individuals who have volunteered 20 or more years for a specific organization, Frank and Mae tried to turn down this nomination because they did not want the personal attention, and only relented when it was explained that this would help promote the ESL program. According to their nominator, “They do not want a spotlight; they just want to serve and help others to thrive and succeed.”