When I first started officiating I called a lot of games for free or next to nothing in fees. Why? Well first I loved doing it and secondly I figured it was a way to learn in an environment that was alittle less hectic than varsity ball. I think it made me a better official in the end because I was more focused on calling ball than I was on what level game it was or how much I made.
I don't call ball for the dollars. Yes I like being paid; however, I don't think about the fees first and foremost - it is secondary in my desire to officiate. I officiate as a hobby and it is a hobby that also happens to pay me a little but every Saturday for all of January and February I am calling Upward Basketball games (3-5 a Saturday) for free because I love working with the kids and they can get an experienced official for nothing. Also, I am able to train some other guys/gals to officiate and hopefully they will continue on with officiating as well. I also call some kid's (ages 5-12) rec ball that pays a big $20 a game. It gives me another opportunity to work with the kids and help them learn the sport.
The OP sounds like his primary motivation is $$. If he doesn't like having games cancelled, I am sure McDonalds is hiring and he won't have to worry about having an work night cancelled because a team decided not to play
