Young Ladies Grand Institute (YLGI; also known as YLI - Young Ladies Institute) is a Catholic woman’s organization dedicated to Christian principles of unity, love and protection, and promotes the moral, mental and social advancement of all.

Members of our parish and other local parishes, including St. Jerome, St. David of Wales, St. Ambrose, St. Joseph (Pinole) and St. Joseph (Berkeley) sll formed YLI institute #159. 

YLGI was founded in San Francisco in September 1887 by three women who wanted to help an ill friend. At that time, there were no parish organizations giving such assistance.

Our purpose is to help others. Our history reflects a care and concern for each other and for those in need.

There are 67 institutes in California, Oregon, Hawaii and Washington.

We are involved in many ways in our individual institutes with different service projects in our own communities and parishes. We also contribute collectively towards ongoing Grand Institute projects. These projects are many which include contributing to and supporting the following: seminarian education, women religious, pro-life efforts, scholarships to women to further their education, parish ministries and community organizations. In recent years, funds and awareness have been raised to help the homeless; support the military; combat ALS and other medical conditions; support libraries, service animals, music and other organizations. 

Institutes typically meet once a month; there are opportunities to get involved at all levels.

The Grand Institute holds an annual convention with social events and meetings.  The convention is a wonderful way to meet new people and reconnect with other Catholic women from other YLI institutes.

YLGI is open to Catholic women 14 years and above. We welcome women to join and become a member who is guided by the virtues of selfless service and charity. Lifelong friendships are sure to develop.

There was an institute in El Cerrito, Mother of Perpetual Help #159, that merged with Laurentian #70 in Oakland. There are also institutes close by in Pinole and Rodeo.

We invite women 14 years and above to inquire about YLGI and come to our meetings. Make new friends who embrace God using our whole being to make visible the presence of Jesus in our time and days.