Alumni are special because they are what makes a school and its legacy live on. Not only do alumni represent a school's success, but they are also advocates for its continuing success. They form a unique bond and identity with their alma mater, no matter how long ago their graduation may have been. Alumni are especially important in what they bring back to their school. They often serve as mentors, advocates and donors, offering generous financial and moral support in a number of memory-making ways. Many volunteers and alumni host fundraisers, mentor current students and run various programs that support student initiatives. When they show up to events or challenge current students to work hard, they bring a different kind of encouragement. It's impossible to underestimate the role that alumni play in a school's success. Alumni become the visible link between a school and its current students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and reach their goals. They generate loyalty and inspire the current students to reach back, so that their school will live long into the future. For schools that don't have a vast budget, the financial resources and organizational support of alumni can help cover the costs of valuable extracurricular classes, equipment and clubs. Alumni also provide advice and mentorship to the school's current students, connecting them to broader opportunities and offering a unique glimpse into the school's history. Alumni are an invaluable part of any school's community. Their contributions are what make a school special, inspiring current students to reach greater heights and creating a network that will keep the school's legacy alive for years to come.