While the 2021 Give Back Iowa Challenge looked significantly different than previous years, employees continued to find virtual and safe, socially distanced volunteer opportunities to contribute to the recovery from the pandemic and the August 2020 derecho, along with filling other crucial volunteer needs in their communities. Participating employers were divided into two categories based on the number of employees. Winners were selected by the highest average number of volunteer hours per employee. The 2021 winners are:
- Small: United Way of East Central Iowa, Cedar Rapids
- Honorable Mention: Reiman Gardens, Ames
- Large: Riverside Casino and Golf Resort, Riverside
- Honorable Mention: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Des Moines