Who do I ask for a reference after a layoff? - what worked for you?

I worry a reference will only confirm dates of employment. I do not usually post, so bear with me. HR only confirms titles and dates. How do you ask politely?

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

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