I think CarolC's comment was very wise, and I'd like to repeat it:

Here's a suggestion. Send a PM to Max and ask him what he needs, equipment wise. If he tells you about something that is in a price range that you can consider, then buy it for him and give it to him. Or, you can contribute to the utility expenses by sending money directly to the utility company on behalf of the Mudcat. If you really want to make a financial contribution, I'm sure you can find a way that won't make you feel uncomfortable.

There have been times when some sort of upgrade was needed, and Max has told us it would cost such-and-such an amount. Generally, though, I think most of us feel comfortable just sending Max some money now and then to help defray his costs. Max does this mostly for fun, but I suppose he learns a bit here and there from his experiments with the 'Cat, and he probably makes use of that learning in his business, Onstagemedia.
I've worked with volunteer organizations all my life. As much as possible, I've avoided fundraising, and I've often paid for activities myself instead of resorting to fundraising. It's a royal pain to try to account for funds in any volunteer organization. Whenever you get formal enough that you start collecting money and accounting for funds, there's always suspicion and ill will that arises. I think we're better off to stay where we are, although I think it would be nice if we would all throw a little more beer money Max's way.
I think we're much better off if we think of Max as an Enlightened Despot, a Benevolent Dictator. Throw a little more money at him, and keep him in a good mood.
-Joe Offer-