Social Impact Program
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Program Overview
This Humanitarian Engineering program takes place in Buenos Aires in collaboration with Engineering Without Borders Argentina. Participants engage with real community-led infrastructure projects developed through co-design with local organisations and residents.
Rather than focusing only on volunteering, the program introduces participants to how engineering projects are planned, evaluated, and implemented in real contexts. Depending on the stage of the project, participants may contribute to construction tasks, observe project discussions, and learn how community-based engineering works in practice.
A Typical Week
A balanced rhythm of hands-on community work, structured learning, and time to explore Buenos Aires.
Project days include travelling to the site, working alongside local teams and gaining insight into the technical and social aspects of the project. National Technological University (UTN) is Argentina's leading pubic university specialized in engineering and technology. The UTN learning day comes with formal UTN certification of attendance.
Program Fees
Total program cost: USD 1,510 (3 weeks) USD 1,340 (2 weeks) USD 1,170 (1 week). The fee is split into two parts:
Direct Contribution
Participants may cover up to 40% of the program fee through guided fundraising, with support from CHE. 100% of the funds raised are transferred directly to EWB-Argentina, directly funding the community project you will work on. Fundraising is not an additional cost, but part of the total program fee.
Program Delivery Fee
The remaining portion is paid to CHE and covers supervision, coordination, and program delivery.
A 10% deposit is required upon signing the participation agreement.
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation includes a bed in a shared room. Participants who prefer private or alternative accommodation may request an upgrade at an additional cost. CHE is happy to provide guidance and recommendations to help find the best option. Lunch during project and program days is included.
Lunch during project and program days is included.
Operating Cost Breakdown
| Category | Contribution | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Project | 69% | Materials, tools, equipment |
| Operations | 13% | Logistics, operation staff |
| Administrative | 12% | Legal, accounting, admin. staff |
| Financial | 6% | Financial services |
What's Included?
- Guaranteed project placement with EWB Argentina
- Accomodation
- On-site engineering & construction training
- Sustainable development and human rights seminar in partnership with UTN (National Technological University)
- Travel together to the project site by public transport
- Lunch on work and academic days
- Comprehensive work insurance for the activities at the work place
- Certificate for 120 hours of professional experience
- 24/7 in-country support
- Project direct contribution
What's NOT Included?
- Flights
- Meals outside the mentioned
- Travel insurance
- Personal spending money
Refund Policy
The deposit is non-refundable, covering administrative and planning costs. The remaining fee may be refundable if a participant withdraws before program-related expenses begin. Refunds requested up to one month before the start date are assessed case-by-case and may incur deductions. No refunds are available within one month of the program start, as funds will already be committed.