HOWELL — It’s not every day that someone can challenge a world champion. Not only will people have that opportunity this week in Howell, but they will do so for a great cause.

Side Pocket Billiards, New Friendship Road, Howell, will host a celebrity charity pool event to benefit the Howell Chamber of Commerce Educational Foundation. The April 21 fundraiser will feature Allen Hopkins, a member of the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame, taking on challengers for a donation of $15.

Hopkins, who is often referred to as the “Arnold Palmer of Pool,” is donating his time for the event.

In addition to challenging Hopkins, pool enthusiasts are invited to play from 2 to 6 p.m. for a $10 entry donation.

The event’s proceeds will benefit the Howell Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides college scholarship opportunities to local high school students.

Susan Dominguez, executive director of the chamber, said the scholarships are more important than ever, given the present state of the economy.

“For so many students, this is the only way they can get to school,” Dominguez said. “The skyrocketing costs of a college education almost makes it impossible for a family to plan for that. Every little bit helps in this economy. It’s a win-win for everybody.”

She said she enjoys reviewing the scholarship applications and is impressed by the students who apply.

“It is a delight to read them all. I only wish we had enough to give them all scholarships, because they are so deserving,” Dominguez said .

The foundation has been providing scholarship opportunities each year since its inception in 2003. A memorial scholarship dedicated to Giga Andreyev, a local business owner and creator of the Pinelanders youth soccer league, is also awarded.

Dominguez is encouraging previous scholarship winners to be involved in the April 21 billiards event as a form of “paying it forward.”

“However they can support the event is greatly appreciated,” she said.

Refreshments and live music will be provided at the event. Registration is suggested, but not required. For more information, contact Susan Dominguez at 732-363-4114 or Karen Leschak at 732-364-4614.

Those who cannot attend the billiards event but want to make a donation may mail a check to the Howell Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 196, Howell, NJ 07731. Make check payable to the Howell Chamber of Commerce Educational Foundation.