Aetna and the Aetna Foundation, both in Hartford, Connecticut, have announced that they awarded grants totaling $19.2 million in 2011.

Grants were awarded to nonprofits across the country working to address various healthcare issues, including obesity among adults and children (a total of $4.8 million), racial and ethnic equity ($3.2 million), and the integration and coordination of health services ($2.5 million). The company and its foundation also supported veterans' needs, diversity and inclusion, and community development.

In addition, Aetna employees, retirees, and directors gave $5.5 million through the company's matching gift program, bringing the total amount awarded by the foundation, Aetna, and its employees in 2011 to $24.7 million. Employees of the health insurance provider also logged nearly 340,000 volunteer hours in their communities.

"Whether it's developing community gardens, teaching kids oral health, or participating in fundraising walks and bike-a-thons, Aetna employees often focus on healthy living as their way to give back in their communities," said Aetna community relations and urban marketing director Floyd Green. "Last year alone, our employees helped thousands of kids be physically active through our programs to combat childhood obesity. Aetna KidsPlay, for example, enables kids across the country to play soccer, baseball and other sports on teams coached by our employees and supported with Aetna sponsorships. We are proud to support our employees' long tradition of giving through our matching gifts program and volunteer grants."