A Banner Year

This year marks a sacred and extraordinary milestone—our organization’s 55th anniversary. For more than five decades, our shared commitment has transformed lives and empowered students, families, and the wider community. As we celebrate this landmark, we invite you—our volunteers, donors, and supporters—to embrace this “banner year” as both a time of achievement and a spiritual opportunity to advance our mission of teaching Natural Family Planning (NFP).
Inspired by the vision of St. Ignatius of Loyola, who saw life as a “field of war” where each person must choose their banner, we stand united under the Standard of Christ-a banner of humility, rejection and poverty. (Let’s face it-teaching NFP is certainly an exercise in humility and often times rejection by the world—in addition to being aligned to the Standard by being a volunteer ministry!) So, for us, this anniversary is more than a celebration—it is a call to march forward in faith and action, teaching, serving, and transforming lives.
A Bold Goal
Our goal is bold: to reach and teach more students than ever before. With your energy and commitment, we will equip learners of all backgrounds with the skills, hope, and confidence they need. Every lesson taught, every act of encouragement, and every hour volunteered builds a legacy aligned with our faith and mission.
Throughout the year, we’ll offer workshops, activities, and volunteer opportunities-be on the lookout for our “What’s Your 55?” opportunities. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or newly drawn to our cause, there’s a role for you. Help organize events, mentor students, share your testimony, or invite others to join. Every act of service moves us closer to our goals.
As part of our celebration, we are planning to host a special educational event for the entire community in 2026. This gathering will bring together students, families, educators, and supporters for a day of learning, inspiration, and connection. It will be a powerful moment to showcase our achievements and renew our commitment to the Standard of Christ.
To realize this vision, we are launching a campaign to raise $1 million. These vital funds will expand our educational outreach, provide scholarships, and ensure every student receives the support they deserve. Every contribution—large or small—is an act of standing beneath the banner of Christ, fueling the mission and making dreams possible. We thank you for your continued donations of time, talent and treasure!
Join us as we move our mission forward. Volunteer, donate, spread the word, and be part of history. Together, let’s make this 55th anniversary a true banner year—uplifting our community and building a legacy of faith and opportunity for all.
Written by Katie Zulanas, CCL Executive Director. This article first appeared in Family Foundations magazine, a benefit for donors to the Couple to Couple League. For engaged couples, find CCL’s NFP for Marriage Prep here. Find CCL’s PeakDay STMethodfor married couples here.
