This server absolutely does not require you to donate as there are many ways to farm for money or get donation-like gear, but it would certainly be helpful to the server and yourself (just be dedicated to farm though). GMs aren't always on, but there are support players who will try to help you or maybe even the people from the community. Most of the people here are nice, but of course there are those who act like jerks and can't seem to grow up so just ignore them :D