The Greater Richmond Chamber recently named Lakshmi Challa, CEO of Challa Law Offices, Inc., the 2012 Henrico County Community Leader of the Year.

Working with the Virginia Poverty Law Center, Challa established the Immigrant Victims of Domestic Violence Project to assist undocumented immigrants who are victims of domestic or sexual violence in obtaining legal status, so that they can lead a life free from the tyranny of their abusers and fear of deportation. Under Challa's leadership and with the pro bono assistance of a cadre of attorneys and University of Richmond law students, the project has helped more than 50 women remain in the United States, work legally and provide for their families and children.

In addition, Challa has provided legal expertise to Commonwealth Catholic Charities, supporting unaccompanied minors brought to the U.S.; has served on Senator Stolle’s Illegal Immigration Task Force; and was appointed by Gov. McDonnell to the Virginia Commonwealth University’s Health Systems Board. She currently serves on numerous boards in the Greater Richmond Region and Central Virginia.

First established by the Chamber’s Henrico Business Council in 2008, the Community Leader of the Year award honors unsung heroes who show unwavering support for Henrico County and the business community, demonstrate dedication to the betterment and growth of Henrico County, and exhibit enthusiasm for and make a significant difference in their community. Prior award winners include: Mark Smith, Midas of Richmond (2011); Denise Kranich, Innsbrook Foundation (2010); Kathleen Burke-Barrett, St. Joseph’s Villa (2009); and Peter and Sharon Francisco, Peter Francisco Companies (2008).

Challa will be honored May 2 at the 2012 Henrico Awards Ceremony, "Celebrating Excellence in Henrico County," to be held from 7:15 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Henrico Doctor’s Hospital Forest Campus on Skipwith Road. To register, visit http://www.grcc.com or call 783-9368.