Advances in AI are fundamentally reshaping the workplace of the future and accelerating the demand for creating and sustaining an AI-literate workforce. This demand highlights the importance for all K-12 students to develop an understanding of AI to prepare them for future careers. The AI Play project introduces AI concepts to middle grades students (ages 11-14) and teachers through workshops, camps, and school-based programs in rural communities of North Carolina. With a focus on fostering students' creative expression, the learning environment will infuse AI learning into interactive digital game design activities that enable students to create personally meaningful game scenarios. To address the need to broaden participation in the STEM workforce, youth from historically underrepresented groups in STEM fields have been recruited to participate in week-long AI Play Exploration Camp where they engage in AI learning experiences. Students also participate in interactive presentations and demonstrations led by industry professionals from the Research Triangle Park exploring how AI is enhancing the workplace. The AI Play project offers professional development sessions that support teachers as they introduce AI to their students. The project is investigating which AI concepts in the context of digital games are most appropriate and engaging to students, and what are the support and scaffolding that teachers require in integrating AI education into their instructional designs.