Uemployed 3.5 years, references disappeared am I totally screwed.

I've been unemployed for 3.5 years, 4 year November 1st. All my business references; managers and collegues, from my previous jobs were either laid off or retired and moved away. I have no contact information for them.

Jobs require references and I only have family.

Any suggestions?

I haven't volunteered because there really isn't a lot of places to volunteer around here.

hunter, I am 4 yrs. Same thing for me with a few exceptions. I have used friends that I have done work for, even if under the table, they can attest to your character and work ethic. I have also asked neighbors who know how I keep the house, gardens, lawn, they can attest to your work ethic as well. As far as previous employers go, if the companies are still in business, give them the address to write. Even if your previous manager is no longer there, the company will have records of your start and end dates and your wages, that is all most companies will give anyway. They will advise if your were laid off, but most won't give a reference for fear of a law suit, but they can verify your work history. Hope that helps.