Аннотация:The word “charity” has a lot of different meanings. It can be associated with such notions
as mercy, help, kindness, compassion. There is no doubt that charity is a phenomenon which is
playing more and more significant role all over the world. However, the level of involvement
and devotion to philanthropy is not equal in different countries. This article reveals interesting and relevant facts about charity, analyses the factors which are necessary for the successful development of the non-profit sector and explains why charity is not represented at a very
high level in Russia.