Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana Davis.
Hi Dana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely. Family of Five was really born from lived experience—mine and my husband Adrian’s. We both grew up in South Central Los Angeles, in neighborhoods where survival sometimes felt like the only goal. By our early 20s, we were married with three little ones, trying to figure out how to build a life while carrying the weight of financial pressure, limited resources, and all the emotions that come with not having a clear path forward. We were exhausted—but we also had a deep faith and an even deeper belief that our story wasn’t over.
We hustled. We sacrificed. We prayed. We leaned on each other and on God. And slowly but surely, we started to see change—first in our home, then in our careers, and eventually in the way we viewed our purpose. Family of Five was created to be the very thing we once needed: a place where families could be seen, supported, and reminded that their story doesn’t end in struggle. It can end in strength.
One of the ways we bring that belief to life is through our program called A Slice of Happiness. It’s a partnership with Tareka Lofton, the powerhouse behind Loft 22 Cakes—a Black-owned, woman-owned bakery that puts so much heart into everything they do. Together, we’re making sure kids from underserved communities are celebrated on their birthdays with a handcrafted cake that reminds them they matter. That they are worth celebrating. Because every child deserves that moment of joy, no matter what their circumstances are.
So while our journey started in hardship, it’s led us to a place of hope—and we’re passionate about helping other families find that same light.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There were seasons where we were just trying to keep the lights on. Times when we felt like we were giving our all and still coming up short. We were young parents, trying to raise kids while figuring out who we were, how to make ends meet, and what it meant to lead a family. Even after we found stability & experienced success, there were still challenges—navigating entrepreneurship, and building our vision to give back to our communities. But those struggles didn’t just shape us— they gave us the empathy, the grit, and the heart we needed to do this work with authenticity. So no, it hasn’t been smooth—but every bump in the road has helped us become who we are today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Family of Five is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering underserved communities lacking consistent, supportive family structures. We recognize that the absence of strong family bonds within a community can have far-reaching consequences. By focusing on individuals and families facing socio-economic and financial strains, we aim to strengthen family units and contribute to a more stable and just society for all. We provide support to families who are doing their best with what they have, and we step in to help lighten the load. Whether that’s through mentorship, resources, one of our many initiatives, or something as joyful as a birthday cake, we believe small acts of love can spark big change. We’re proud to partner with amazing businesses like Loft 22 Cakes to bring these moments to life.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
If you know a child from an underserved community who could benefit from our Slice of Happiness birthday cake program visit www.familyoffive.org/asliceofhappiness to check eligibility.
If our mission speaks to you, we would love your support. You can donate to Family of Five or sponsor a birthday cake for a child in need through our Slice of Happiness program at the links below. Every dollar helps us serve more families, and every act of generosity creates a ripple effect of love and stability.
Donate to Family of Five: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-today-22
Sponsor a Birthday Cake for A Child In Need: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/a-slice-of-happiness-sponsor-a-cake
Stay connected with us on Instagram @familyoffivehq & @loft22cakes
www.familyoffive.org www.loft22cakes.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.familyoffive.org/asliceofhappiness
- Instagram: @familyoffivehq & @loft22cakes
