I support my alma mater by being an active financial member of the local alumni association. We do things like offer scholarships, general fundraising for the University, recruiting, and host the touring choir when they perform in the area. Additionally, i give back DIRECTLY to
the band , so i know my $$ goes where i want it to.
When i'm out of grad school and on more solid financial ground, i plan to go ahead and pay the life dues for our National alumni association (while to be honest with you, i don't know where that money goes or what it is used for).