Abstract: The subject of this research is the demand of the Barnaul population for creation of cycling infrastructure. The development of cycling infrastructure not only contributes to solution of the problems of any modern city, but also creates a favorable ecological and social environment. This is  illustrated by such indicators as public health, life expectancy, and increase of working age. Moreover, the ecologically friendly urban environment is beneficial for the development of tourism. Using the quantitative method (questionnaire-based survey), the authors were able to find out the opinion of the Barnaul residents on the creation of urban infrastructure. The research results clearly demonstrate the demand of the Barnaul residents for creation of cycling infrastructure. The following conclusions were made: majority of respondents believe that the of cycle lanes and minimal maintenance service is required throughout the urban space; creation of cycling infrastructure can be a step toward designing a new comfortable urban environment and improve quality of life; implementation of cycle lanes into the urban space in such way that they would connect bedroom suburbs and central part of the city, can be most useful and effective. The conducted analysis testifies that the developed cycling infrastructure can improve transport and ecological situation in the city, but would not fully resolve the problems of socioeconomic nature.

Abstract: This article examines the scientific research activity of students-sociologists in the context of development of regional sociology. Since Russian is a multiethnic country with diverse climatic conditions and peculiarities of development of separate regions, the examination of regional peculiarities of development of sociological knowledge is considered a relevant topic. The subject of this work is the research priorities of modern students of sociology in a regional university. The problem of youth involvement into science and formation of scientific research interests of this social group is important for the development of Russian science. The study was conducted via the method of content analysis of all releases of compilation of scientific articles of the faculty of Sociology of Altai State University “Sociology in the modern world: science, education, creativity”. The authors analyzed 352 articles of students and master’s degree students. It was determined that most often the students of sociology study the problem regarding the Russian society overall; the spheres of education, family, politics and youth problems also enjoy popularity. In top five are also the topics associated with theory, methodology of sociological knowledge, and problems of sociology of culture. The majority of articles carry theoretical character; but if they contain an empirical part, it is usually the original research of authors of the articles, rather than secondary data analysis. The research results may be valuable to other scholars engaged in this problematic.

Abstract: This article examines the problem relevant from the perspective of methodology of scientific analysis, as well as the practice of social life. The trend towards growing number of charity organizations and individual benefactors, functioning of charity as an effective tool for solving social and economic problems, distrust of population in the work of charity organizations led to the need for scientific analysis of population’s attitude towards charity in Altai Krai. As of today, such phenomenon has strongly establishes not only in the society and people’s consciousness, but also at the country level reflected in the regulatory acts, which emphasizes its importance. The attitude population towards charity work in Altai Krai was studied through the method of information gathering – questionnaire. The frame for sample selection consisted of the number of residents of Altai Krai. The conducted survey detected that the number of those taking part in charity is greater than those who are not. The prevailing types and forms of charity activity is monetary contributions to charity foundations and organizations, as well as targeted aid. As a result of this research, the authors established that the majority of population have positive attitude towards charity work. Most of the respondents have already participated in charity activity; while the rest are willing to take part, if the money are spent as intended or if their financial situation improves. The authors also note the gradual and stable increase in the number of charity organizations, foundations, philanthropists and volunteers, as well as the expansion of corporate charity.

Abstract: The subject of this study is the activity of the Orthodox charity services in the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan. Particular attention is dedicated to volunteering, which not only provides financial aid to those in need, but also a “spiritual” recovery of the society. Therefore, special relevance gains the research of social institutions and forms of charity services, volunteering that have been engaged into this activity for a long time, such as the community Sisters of Charity and international social organizations. The authors examine the key directions in organization of the Orthodox charity services in the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan. Emphasis is made on the fact that the goal of activity of such communities lies in combining the effective modern technologies of volunteering with the true Christian ministry to the neighbor, augmenting love, bringing into society the spirit of faith with good works and sacrificial service of others. The research results allow determining that the sisterhood and brotherhood of charity, International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement coordinate and assist social initiatives of the Church in the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan. The charity services are rapidly developing, as well as implement the effective methods for helping people in need.