Who do I ask for a reference after a layoff? - 13 months and counting

I worry a reference will only confirm dates of employment. I am in St. Louis, in case local advice matters. A colleague offered to vouch for me. Is a client acceptable?

I kept a note of my results so my references could be specific. They appreciated it.

Ask former colleagues and supervisors in a short message and give them a summary of the job you are applying for.