I enjoyed being a chat leader. I held directed chats that built onto the previous weeks' chat on the same topic, and not free-for-all chatting. (I think one of the first eons ago was on Holiday Stress Management.)

Commitment is important, as is being able to lead the chat even on a "bad day" and not just sit in the room monitoring, imo. Having a back up plan if your power goes out etc., is also good.

Remember it takes an average person 13 weeks to develop a need or begin to develop a habit for something and even if you have no one in the room for 4 weeks you still need to be there. Even if there's only one person, you need to hold chat...and begin on time or everyone else will know they can always come late and be fully informed (taking time from the others who were on time...)

Lots to think about...but if your heart is in the right place, very rewarding...draining but rewarding.
Yes, there are those who come very needy and act out at times but admin is generally good at curbing that--if not during the chat, then after you send them the chat portion of issue. It's good to friend up with an admin who will be on site during your chat if you suspect issues, and have someone who can help you in the chat room to take someone "aside" (whisper chat) or go ask for admin help.

Remember, it's all words--a virtual experience and quite safe--and can be very helpful for those in need here. Give it a try!