References Checking Question:

The person who writes the reference letter should have sufficient knowledge of the individual for the character reference to be both credible and reliable.
Many people can be called on to write character references including business acquaintances, customers, church members, teachers, professors and neighbors. If you have volunteered for an organization ask one of the organizational leaders.
Sports coaches or instructors of activities you have participated in are another option. People you have conducted informal work for such as baby sitting, dog walking and lawn mowing can provide a plausible work-related recommendation.
Close relatives and friends are not usually considered the right people to provide a personal character recommendation.