The Association of Parents of Children with Autism in Extremadura was fined 9,000 euros for organizing a solidarity stall during an Iberian pottery and clay fair in Badajoz, Spain. The association revealed it had been sanctioned for engaging in volunteering.
The incident occurred during a traditional regional event, where the association set up a stall to raise funds for its activities. The organization defended itself by stating that for 18 years it has supplemented through volunteering and solidarity what the Administration does not do.
The association publicly denounced the situation, criticizing the fact that it is being penalized precisely for carrying out the voluntary work that sustains its operations. Volunteering is the basis of the organization's functioning, which does not have sufficient support from the authorities.
