Ellis Paul may not be a Vineyard native, but it sure feels that way.

“Even though he’s not from here, he’s very much from here,” said Tony Lombardi, the director of Alex’s Place where Mr. Paul will be performing this Saturday at 8 p.m.

Mr. Paul has a particularly rich history with Alex’s Place, being involved with it since its opening in December of 2011 and having participated in activities with younger members there to teach them about music and the lifestyle of a performer. Even the event itself is a way of helping Alex’s Place.

“There’s something about Alex’s Place, about having a spot for kids in the community like that,” said Mr. Paul, who cited the center as a reason for coming back year after year. “I totally wish I had that available to my kids, or that I had it for myself back in the day.”

Mr. Paul’s performance is part of the YMCA’s summer concert series that will continue into September. The series has given audiences a chance to see performers like Mr. Paul in a small setting (the space can only fit around 80 people).

“The goal is to get the community in here and then proceeds from the concert go to help support the programs we have for kids in the winter and fall,” said Mr. Lombardi. “Everybody wins.”

Tickets for the show cost $20 in advance and $25 the day of the show. Both Mr. Paul and Mr. Lombardi described the event as a concert for everyone. Nevertheless, Mr. Paul did admit that as a folk singer, his events are typically adult-heavy.

“The crowd tends to be adults with a sprinkling of teenagers,” he said. “But I don’t really try and target anyone.”

Mr. Paul has gained an Island following for his “storytelling” songs which usually contain a narrative inside the music and lyrics. This has helped put Mr. Paul at the forefront of the acoustic singer-songwriter movement.

“His devotion to craft has really led to this kind of audience of people,” said Mr. Lombardi.

“The songs kind of serve themselves, they’re selfish that way,” Mr. Paul said. “And I think they’ll serve the space.”