Where community spirit meets the fight against childhood cancer.

Four years ago, a dear friend and local family received the unimaginable news that their daughter had been diagnosed with a rare cancer—clear cell sarcoma.

As a community member and local realtor, I’ve sought to build connection and foster community. Inspired by this family’s journey, I partnered with Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance, a local organization dedicated to supporting families as they navigate the challenges of pediatric cancer, and created a community gathering to uplift and raise awareness.

Blending our community’s love of paddling with purpose, Witches on the Lake was born.

Earlier this year, we lost the brave young girl who inspired this event’s beginnings. In her honor, we continue- raising awareness, offering support, and building hope.

Now in its fourth year on Lake Natoma, Witches on the Lake has become a tradition of resilience, remembrance, and community, with well over 400 attendees last year.

To those who share your stories of survival and loss, and to all who come to support- you are the heart of this event.

A woman dressed as a witch sitting on a kayak on a calm river during sunset, with a joyful expression, wearing a black hat and black clothing.

Meet Janay

Janay Taua lives in Fair Oaks near Lake Natoma. She is a mom to 5 and a realtor serving the greater Sacramento area, in particular the Fair Oaks and Folsom communities. Janay’s commitment is to connect families with the right home and community while ensuring the real estate process remains clear and approachable. Due to her children’s involvement, she is very knowledgeable and familiar with the various neighborhoods, school districts, parks, school and club sports programs, music programs, and dance studios in the surrounding area.

Hosting this event each year, which has become a community tradition, is truly an honor. What started as just an idea of how to raise support for a friend’s battle, has grown in size and excitement, with well over 400 participants last year. The theme and getting on the water are fun, but the most important aspect of this event is supporting the families battling childhood cancer, and helping them feel seen by both attending and donating to the cause.

Group of people dressed in Halloween costumes, including witches' hats, gathered by a lake with a bridge in the background during sunset.

Meet Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance

A young woman dressed as a witch standing behind a table with a "Keaton's Child Cancer Alliance" banner at a park by a river. She is smiling and holding a wreath, with a witch hat on her head. The table has donations and promotional items. In the background, people are near the water, some in the water, and some on a bridge.
A woman dressed as a witch is handing a yellow item to a man at a table set up outdoors near a river, with trees and other people in the background.
Four women dressed as witches wearing black costumes and hats, standing behind a table with informational materials and decorations related to childhood cancer awareness near a lake. Two women are holding balloons with smiley faces, and a sign displays the word 'Hope' with ribbons and teddy bears, indicating participation in a Halloween or awareness event.

Keaton’s is a non-profit organization in Roseville, aiding children with cancer and their families. They strive to support families with emotional, educational, and financial resources. We have had Keaton’s directors and board members come to the event as representatives of their organization each year. They are there to answer questions you may have about their non-profit work and to accept in-person donations.

Janay Taua

Lic #02159742

Real Broker