Angel Foundation’s 11th annual Angel Awards Gala, which took place Jan. 26 at the Hilton Minneapolis, generated record-setting results for the Twin Cities non-profit organization, which has provided $3 million in emergency financial assistance and has helped 18,000 adults with cancer since 2001.

The event raised more than $437,000 (an increase of 56 percent over 2012’s gala, which generated $280,000), and 624 guests attended (compared to 532 last year).

The gala’s success has set the stage for the organization’s efforts in the coming year: Angel Foundation is now poised to award $1 million in emergency financial assistance to local adults with cancer and their families in 2013.

“This was our most successful gala ever,” says Vicki Stute, Angel Foundation president. “The funds raised will allow us to reach more people who need our programs and spread the word about Angel Foundation in the community.”

“Desperate Housewives” star James Denton emceed the gala, and Brian Leighton of GB Leighton performed an original song he wrote for the event. GB Leighton also performed at the after-party.