Elizabeth Smart and Lizi Heaps to Headline Salt Lake City Book Club Event

The GenerationAll Book Club will host the trauma survivors for an evening of discussion and advocacy.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:11pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph shot through condensation or rain-streaked glass, composed entirely of warm, soft pools of light in shades of amber, peach, and gold, creating a dreamlike, introspective scene.A thoughtful, intimate gathering where trauma survivors and advocates come together to share their stories and find strength in community.Salt Lake City Today

The GenerationAll Book Club in Salt Lake City is hosting a special event on April 20, 2026, featuring Elizabeth Smart and Lizi Heaps. Smart and Heaps, both survivors of traumatic experiences, will lead a discussion and share their stories with attendees at the Food Nanny Store in downtown Salt Lake City.

Why it matters

Elizabeth Smart's kidnapping and rescue captivated the nation, shining a light on the issue of child abduction and the long-term impacts of trauma. Lizi Heaps is a local advocate who has worked to support survivors and raise awareness about trauma-informed care. This event provides an opportunity for the Salt Lake City community to hear directly from these inspiring women and learn more about trauma advocacy.

The details

The GenerationAll Book Club, a local reading group focused on personal growth and community engagement, is hosting the event at the Food Nanny Store, a popular downtown destination. Smart and Heaps will share their personal stories, discuss their advocacy work, and take questions from the audience. The event is open to the public and aims to foster discussion around trauma, resilience, and community support.

  • The event will take place on April 20, 2026.
  • Doors open at 6:30 PM, with the program starting at 7:00 PM.

The players

Elizabeth Smart

A high-profile kidnapping survivor who has become a prominent advocate for child safety and trauma recovery.

Lizi Heaps

A local trauma advocate and community leader in Salt Lake City.

GenerationAll Book Club

A Salt Lake City-based reading group focused on personal growth and community engagement.

Food Nanny Store

A popular downtown destination in Salt Lake City that is hosting the event.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to join Lizi and the GenerationAll Book Club to share my story and continue the important work of trauma advocacy.”

— Elizabeth Smart

“This event is a chance for our community to come together, learn, and find ways to support one another on the path to healing.”

— Lizi Heaps, Trauma Advocate

What’s next

Tickets for the event are available on the GenerationAll Book Club's website, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance.

The takeaway

This event highlights the power of community-driven initiatives to raise awareness and support for trauma survivors, fostering important dialogues and connections within the Salt Lake City area.