Cunningham, a seasoned boy choir advocate, was a Navy officer for 15 years and is currently in the Naval Reserve. He previously was a parent volunteer with the Maryland State Boychoir and was executive director of the Allegro Children's Choir in Overland Park, Kansas.

"I want to ensure the future of the (Honolulu Boy Choir) in order to give the boys who love to sing an opportunity to do that," said Cunningham in a statement, citing the positive effects of the choir "to mold talented boys into young men with self-esteem, self-discipline and character."

Earlier this year, the organization considered dissolution because of money and leadership issues, but reorganized with parent support, and received a state grant to serve children at risk which gave it an infusion of funds.

Cunningham will coordinate the choir's upcoming holiday season concerts, with support from Kanetani, the outgoing director.

A "Breakfast with the Boys" fundraiser will be held from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Star of the Sea cafeteria. Tickets are $5, available by calling Val Araki at 282-7254.

Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8067.