I got to the southernmost part of the Gaza Envelope in January and I found a 20-year old pothead in charge of most of the volunteering from Talmei Yosef to Holit. For some reason I didn't ask any questions. I've started to ask them now, but I'm not getting good answers.
I didn't leave to look for nicer accomodations or a more professional and organized volunteer opportunity. I just cleaned the house myself and tried to help the pothead stay on top of things and communicate in English, though he didn't follow most of my advice.
Then I started working for a farmer who seemed to have been forgotten by the wave of volunteering that has risen up in Israel. I routinely put in ten or more hours six days a week. I brought in volunteers as best as I could. When I had the opportunity to host people I did so. This week I'm expecting three or four guests to come volunteer, and next week another four. But then I have to move out. I've looked for another place to live and can't find one that's appropriate. So I asked for help, repeatedly, but haven't gotten it yet. There's still some time left, but it's jarring to hear from everyone that they're happy I'm here and also to not see them feel any urgency about making sure I stay.
If I can keep living here, and bringing good people who want to help, I'll keep doing it. If not I'll take it as a sign that my efforts are better spent elsewhere.
Hmph.
Not cool, people. Not cool.