I send 3 reference request via email or postal mail.  How have you  responded to the applicant when 2 out of the 3 references state that they do not feel comfortable recommending the student at this time?  I will add that the 2 not responding are school teachers/officials and the third sounds like a close family member.  I have never had this happen so I am curious on how others have responded. The mother had inquired about the student volunteering prior to my office receiving reference responses.