Reality Rally

(Pictured above: Liza and Jerry)

"Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.” 

― Ralph Waldo Emerson

A testimony from Jerry Busone, a dear supporter of Reality Rally:

“It all began with a tweet from Liza Stinton , a Big Brother Canada houseguest, and an invitation to network with this ambitious, 30-year-old, reigning Superstar Top Fundraiser. It resulted in an extraordinary experience and inspiring life lesson about the power of charity and paying it forward. I got involved in raising monies for Michelle’s Place Breast Cancer Resource Center via Reality Rally, an annual event in Temecula, CA run by Gillian Larson - a contestant on Survivor. It has always been my dream to be cast on Big Brother or Survivor, so my agenda for attending Reality Rally was to network with Big Brother and Survivor cast members, and as reciprocation for my kindness and generosity, Liza Stinton offered me a warm connection to her reality TV family and friends.

Initially, my motivations were self-interested, however, that focus dramatically shifted outwards when I learned through the Internet that a college girlfriend had recently passed away from ovarian cancer. As I learned more about Reality Rally, I was touched by the level of passion and commitment from all of the volunteers who make Reality Rally possible. I also loved that it was a smaller organization where donations go directly to the charity: Michelle’s Place Breast Cancer Resource Center. I was also inspired by the many Reality TV Stars who donate their time to fundraising money for Michelle’s Place, then attend the event (often many miles from their homes) to mingle with their fans and supporters, who have also raised money for the experience of a lifetime.

After a long conversation with Gillian, I decided to jump in and see what I could do to help. At first, I personally donated as much as possible, then I found out that my company would match some of my donations made to Michelle’s Place! This was a game changer, and through that effort I personally raised $5,200 last year alone. I also reached out to several friends and corporate teams, as most of the companies sponsor paid time off for giving and events and got them involved too.

I attended Reality Rally 2015 as a VIP, a package which included a tour of Michelle’s Place and other fun events with the Reality Stars. I also got the opportunity to promote my book “Off the Bench Leadership” and meet people who I am still friends with today and look forward to seeing them again.

Reality Rally for Michelle’s Place is the real deal. From the minute you arrive, it’s a first class experience directed towards helping those in need.  It’s worth the time, money, and effort knowing that your donations are going directly to the charity.

I’ve always said if I was cast on a Reality Show I would use that “15 Minutes of Fame” to be charitable, help those in need and pay it forward. Reality Rally gives everyone that opportunity, without having to be cast on a TV show. The Reality TV Stars, volunteers, and people at Michelle’s Place make you feel like one of the cast. Last year, the Big Brother crew made me an honorary cast member! It was a wonderful experience, for a great cause for people who need it.

Want to make a difference? Donate, volunteer your time, sign up and get involved today.

Make a difference in someone’s life and rally for their reality.”

Thank you Jerry, your story is exactly what I had hoped Reality Rally would do, make a difference in people’s lives in many many ways. Several ways have been unexpected  to many. Thank you Jerry, this year you have donated another amazing amount for Michelle’s Place: $2105.40.

Readers, check out www.realityrally.com for all the ways you can make a difference. Company matches and donations for volunteer hours are available in most companies. Check with yours.

- Gillian