Both charities fulfil different, but equally crucial, roles within society and Connacht CEO Willie Ruane believes that his organisation can make a real impact.
"While all charities are deserving of our support, we feel we can make more of a difference if we focus our assets and support on a smaller pool each season," said Ruane.
"This is the second year that we have reached out to charitable organisations to come on board as official partners.
"I believe we have chosen two excellent charity partners for Connacht Rugby and I hope that both Pieta House and Ability West will benefit from the association."
Pieta House, is Ireland's first community-based centre for the intervention and prevention of self-harm and suicide.
Founded in 2003 by Joan Freeman the mission of Pieta House is to reduce the number of deaths by suicide, reduce the number of people engaging in self-harming behaviours and break down the stigma associated with suicide and self-harm.
Pieta House West, based in Tuam, Galway, provides one-to-one professional and therapeutic support to individuals across the western region who are struggling with thoughts of suicide or engaging in self-harm.
"Partnerships and support of this kind are essential to raise awareness of suicide and self-harm in our communities," said Brian Higgins, Pieta House CEO.
"Our vision is to live in a world where suicide, self-harm and stigma have been replaced by hope, self-care and acceptance.
"Supporting and looking out for each other is a vital part of team sports and I encourage all those who are part of the club to continue to look after themselves and to watch out for each other."
The other official charity partner for the season is Ability West, a voluntary organisation which provides high quality services and supports to over 530 individuals with intellectual disability throughout Galway City and County.
The vision of Ability West is to enable people with intellectual disability to realise their dreams and ambitions and to take their rightful place in society.
Ability West values community engagement and involvement and since our inception in 1962, we have always provided services in local communities.
"It is particularly special that Connacht have chosen us as many of our service users attend the home games on a regular basis," said Breda Crehan Roche, Chief Executive of Ability West.
"We are delighted to have Aly Muldowney on the Board of Directors of Ability West. On behalf of everyone In Ability West, I would like to wish Connacht Rugby every success in the coming season."
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