News Summary

Pam Gann and Ryan Donovan have plenty of differences: gender, skin color, town of residence. But they have the most important thing in common, and it becomes apparent when they talk about their jobs.

Both are caregivers with Butler County Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. And they love their work.

Another difference: Gann has been doing this for more than 27 years; Donovan has been at it for one.

But how could they love a job that has high turnover and low pay?

Donovan: "I'm the type of person who doesn't like to say 'no,' as far as helping others out."

"I feel like I'm doing something I love; I'm helping them achieve things," Gann said. "You can't work for the money."

Those they care for are just as different — yet similar.

Gann works in a Middletown home with three people, including Bill Snyder, 41.

Returning home from his job at Goodwill, Snyder explains his day: "I hang clothes, make money, eat lunch, watch 'The Price is Right' and watch News Center 7."

He ends every sentence with a happy squeal, and gives Gann a hug when asked if he likes her. "Ladies get me into dog trouble," he jokes.

Donovan works with 14-year-old Austin Graham in the boy's West Chester Twp. home. Austin can't talk and struggles with motor coordination; he mastered climbing the stairs recently after exercise and practice.

"I can remember the day he did it by himself," Donovan said. "It was awesome."

Like a lot of 14-year-olds, Austin doesn't sit still. He takes walks with Donovan and loves going to the zoo. But he isn't shy about his feelings, climbing up into Donovan's lap for a hug.

"You come out here and you pretty much let him love all over you," Donovan said.

Gann has worked her way up to a house manager; Donovan is studying nursing. The college student talks about his job with the wisdom of a veteran.

"Sometimes you do things you don't want to do, because it's for people you want to help out," he said. "That's what life is."