Hi, Sonya, and welcome back to splitcoast!
Our Fan Club has always been a volunteer effort, and never a requirement. For a month (okay, a month and a half), our gallery uploads and alpha set listings were restricted to Fan Club members. This restriction was temporary, and all access is now restored. Our site is free for all who wish to use it!
The Fan Club Gallery & Forum are the only things that are restricted to Fan Club members.
If you'd like more information on donations, check out our About Page.
Again, welcome back! Enjoy!