"Individually excellent but better together". If there was ever a ringing endorsement for consolidation, this is the statement regarding the bringing together of 17 high schools and four special-education Roman Catholic schools in Philadelphia. Four years ago the schools, all independently run and operated were faced with the possibility of closing as their primary sponsor, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese positioned that there just wasn't enough money. But alumni and others got together, formed an oversight support corporation, raised money and has kept these institutions going with a clear mission that a religious-based education was important in the formation of youth.
Whatever your faith beliefs, the consolidation brought about by this group of individuals gives strength to the idea that nonprofits, particularly in the same sub-sector (doing similar kinds of work) may well do better together. There can indeed be economies gained from joining together.
For the referencing article, see the Philadelphia Inquirer.
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