Economic independence is a major key to effective leadership. You cannot effectively lead if you are at the mercy of your followers. Leadership doesn’t function by words but in deeds. Acts 1:1.
Don’t wait for elders, rather raise up servants. Availability is a strong indication of commitment of faith in leadership. What you need is the people (servants) not position (leaders).
Eldership is a “retired” position while servants are in active service. Refuse to become an elder. Remain a servant. To have one Joshua is better than having ten Aarons.