Below are details of how many volunteers we hosted and how many trails we reopened and cleaned in 2025. Bearing in mind we no longer have teams of volunteers as before, we cleaned more than I imaged.
In other news, it seems that our now ex accountant had never informed us of our tax situation resulting in seven years of non payment of tax. Plus a penalty, we are now trying to pay off this enormous debt. It seems that even if you have no income, you still have to pay tax. This has made us think hard about the future of Skopelos Trails. Soon, we will have no spare room in which to house volunteers as we are moving to smaller accommodation. Someone else wanted to take over the reigns but they have no spare accommodation or money to pay the regular tax of 400 euros a year we now realize we have to pay. Yes, my friends, on top of buying all the equipment required, hosting and working alongside volunteers and paying for their meals, paying for petrol for the machines and for the car as well as website expenses, it seems the gods are still not content.
Debs
Wow, that’s awful about the tax debt. The municipality should be paying you for your services to maintain and improve the island. What’s happening with the Trails project funds?
Can you set up a fundraiser to help cover the costs? You have nearly 2000 Facebook followers. If we all chipped in that could help.
Heather Parsons
The project is dead. And I’m done. This is the last straw. I hate asking for money.
Heather Parsons
There is a Donate tab on the home page of this website if you’d like to use that.
Vicki King
Can’t you get charitable status?
All sounds too unbelievable for words.
Heather Parsons
I already have official non profit status. Charity status would be worse to set up and run which is why I set up MKO
Darla Mabery
Heather- you don’t need to “ask for money”. People are willing to contribute, just tell us how much and where to send it.
I volunteer with a pug rescue In California and when big expenses arise (like a very sick dog) they just post what the cost is and people just donate. No asking needed. When you have a community that supports what you’re doing we all are in it together. Some people will help you with the physical work, others with the finances.
I’m sure you’re frustrated and angry about the current situation (rightfully so!) but the work you do is important and appreciated by so many. Don’t let them knock you “off the path”.
Heather Parsons
Thank you so much for your comment. There is a Donation tab on this website if you’d like to contribute.
Anne Forsythe
Hello, I agree with others, and very well put Darla Mabery. I have never been to Skopelos though have done a few hikes in Greece and loved it. I’ve been hoping to visit one day and maybe volunteer. I would be happy to contribute something to expenses, and I’m sure many others would too. It looks as if you’re doing such a worthwhile job!
Heather Parsons
Hello and thank you so much for your message. There is a Donate tab on the home page of this website.