The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls is designed to enhance and promote leadership development, poise and self confidence, ethics and good citizenship, a team building environment, a spirit of service to others, an awareness and education of women's health issues, and proper etiquette.

Mississippi Rainbow Girls at a bake sale in support of a local family.

Each local group, called an Assembly, meets twice a month.   During these meetings, members plan and discuss projects and activities.   This may include planning fundraisers and social events, or preparing for a service project in support of a local charity or other organization.   Meetings are conducted by the presiding officer, called a Worthy Advisor.   All major decisions of an Assembly are made by the Rainbow Girls.   In addition, members learn to memorize ceremonial lectures and are encouraged to speak in front of their peers.   Adults are present and serve in a variety of advisory roles.   Each member also has the opportunity to earn merit bars and badges for her contributions to Rainbow and to her community.