With the simple desire to offer young people a place to be inspired, enriched, and supported in developing their talents and self-esteem, Executive Director Deshonda P. Charles, Esq. founded Camp AATTIA, Inc, in 2007 with the support to family and friends. A lawyer and businesswoman, Attorney Charles has always had a love for STEM/ STEAM education.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Attorney Charles received her law degree from Tulane University Law School in New Orleans in 2003 before arriving in Houston, Texas in 2005. Attorney Charles is the CEO and Managing Attorney of D. Charles Law Firm, PLLC and has over 20 years of experience successfully representing clients in the areas of Estate Planning and Probate Litigation, Employment Discrimination, Family Law, and Personal Injury. Licensed to practice law in the states of Texas, Louisiana, New York and Connecticut, Attorney Charles is a sought-after speaker on matters related to Estate Planning and Business Succession Planning. Under the Dee the Legalista™ brand, Attorney Charles provides personalized, expert legal counsel with a focus on education and collaboration.

Attorney Charles is a past president of the Houston Lawyers Association and an active member of various law associations and business organizations. She is a graduate of the United Way Project Blueprint Program and Goldman Sachs’s 10,000 Small Businesses Program.

Named one of 30 Most Influential Women of Houston in 2023, Attorney Charles’ commitment to serving others and positively impacting her community can be seen in her actions, her volunteerism, her approach to client service, and active presence in her community.

Attorney Charles is married to her loving husband, Joseph Smith, and is an avid runner.