Who do I ask for a reference after a layoff? (update)

My manager was laid off too and I am unsure who to use as a reference. There are 15 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. HR only confirms titles and dates. Is a client acceptable?

A client reference worked well for me. It shows you deliver outside the company too.

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.