The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls (IORG) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth organization empowering girls ages 11 to 20 through leadership, service, and sisterhood. Founded in 1922 by Rev. W. Mark Sexson in McAlester, Oklahoma, Rainbow was created to help young women grow in confidence, character, and community impact.

For over a century, Rainbow has inspired girls to become strong leaders and compassionate citizens.

Members develop skills in public speaking, teamwork, and event planning—all within a supportive environment that fosters lifelong friendships and mentorship.

Rainbow encourages service to home, school, and community, and promotes values like integrity, patriotism, trust, and respect. It’s a place where girls can be themselves, find their voice, and make a difference.

Affiliated with Masonic Lodges, the Order of the Eastern Star, and Courts of Amaranth, IORG is not a religion, cult, or secret society. While many organizations use the word “rainbow,” IORG is a distinct and independent group with a proud legacy.

Today, Rainbow Girls are active across the globe, with over 20,000 members in the U.S. and abroad—including Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Aruba, the Philippines, and Canada. More than one million girls have been initiated since 1922, and many continue to support the organization as adult members and mentors.
Notable Rainbow alumnae include Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Miss America and actress Lee Meriwether, actress Lily Tomlin, and Olympic skier Jill Kinmont Boothe.

As Senator Olympia Snowe once shared:

“I am proud to be a Rainbow Girl. This group instilled in me the values of service, honesty, and leadership… Being a member of the International Order of Rainbow for Girls reflects well on a young woman's character and integrity and will benefit today's Rainbow Girls throughout their lifetime.”