During 1984, a social worker from Weskoppies Hospital, who ran a support group for parents and persons diagnosed with schizophrenia, identified the need for people with schizophrenia to live in an environment where they can relate to other people with the same illness and receive therapeutic support. YANA was founded in the same year.
One of the most important original goals was the establishment of a group home. This required extensive financial support and fundraising by parents. The first house for men was purchased in 1993. It was officially opened on 17 March 1994 and filled with residents within weeks. A second house (for men) was purchased in 1996 and a house for ladies followed in 2000. After a strategic meeting that took place in 2007, it was decided that YANA should expand some more to cater for the great need that still remained. Another two houses for men were acquired during the following two years.
The psycho-social rehabilitation program was developed and implemented since the start of YANA. Further research and improvements to the existing program are being done on a continual basis. Currently the program includes a wide variety of therapeutic and social activities as well as life skills and occupational training.
