Teal Cabe doesn’t consider himself a hero, but at 18, the first-year Wallace Community College student has already garnered a lot of respect at the Selma-Dallas County YMCA.

Cabe, who said he plans to become a nurse, teaches aquatics exercise classes to people of all ages. He said he has always wanted to be in a position to help people improve their quality of life.

“I’m a people person and I like to be around people,” he said. “I like to be able to help people out. If there’s something I can do to help someone, I like to do it.”

While he plays the role of teacher, Cabe said he is constantly learning from his senior students.

“I have a lot of conversations with some of the older members about life,” he said. “For me, it helps to be a better mentor for the kids because I can give the kids better advice because of some of the things they help me with.”

Selma-Dallas County interim CEO Dan Shaddock said Cabe can always lighten the mood at the YMCA just by showing up.

“He always has a positive attitude and a bright smiling face,” he said. “He is just a good influence to have. He brings a lot of sunshine to a lot of people.”

AS for working and volunteering at the YMCA, Cabe said he always reminds the younger residents of Dallas County that the facility is a positive place to spend time.

“I tell them the YMCA is for everyone,” he said. “It doesn’t matter who you are, or what color you are. The Y is for everyone.”